How Can I Manage Swollen Feet During Pregnancy?

Do you avoid standing for long periods of time?

Do you practice sitting with your legs raised?

Are you sleeping on your left side?

Are you physically active every day (walking, swimming in the pool)?

Have you increased your fluid intake (about 10 glasses of water a day)?

Do you wear compression stockings?

Do you wear loose clothing and avoid socks with tight bands on the ankles or calves?

Do you practice foot massage or reflexology (pressure on certain areas of the feet, hands and ears)?

Have you reduced your intake of sodium (salt, canned and processed foods) and caffeine?

Do you get enough potassium (potatoes with the skin on, bananas, spinach, beans, and salmon)?

Based on your answers, there are several other ways that can help you manage swollen feet during pregnancy. You should avoid standing for long periods of time. When sitting, if possible, raise your legs on a chair and occasionally bend your feet to stretch your calf muscles. You should try to sleep on your left side because this way you will remove the pressure from the vein that returns blood to your heart. It is good to be physically active (walking, swimming in the pool), because it will improve circulation and reduce swelling.

Based on your answers, you know a lot about how to manage swollen feet during pregnancy. You can increase your fluid intake (10 glasses of water a day) because if your body thinks you are dehydrated, it will retain even more fluids. You should try wearing compression stockings to prevent blood pooling in your feet. You should also reduce your intake of sodium and caffeine, which can contribute to water retention. Avoid canned and processed food, and do not add salt to your meal. Wear loose, comfortable clothing. Sometimes, foot massage and reflexology (applying pressure to certain areas of the feet) can be pleasant solutions for swollen feet.