Varicose veins in pregnancy

Pregnancy can cause varicose veins to develop more quickly. Hormonal changes during pregnancy expand blood volume, allow the veins to stretch. As the uterus enlarges, abdominal and pelvic vein compression increases. This makes blood flow out of the legs and lower pelvis more difficult.

These changes cause some women to develop more symptoms of varicose veins. Other women's existing symptoms get worse, ranging from leg swelling to pain and enlarging varicose veins. The affected veins may be in the legs, labia or perineum (the tissue near the outside of the vagina or anus). Superficial thrombophlebitis that leads to clotting of veins in the skin or fatty tissue of the legs is common.

Deep vein thrombosis (DVT) is a serious complication during pregnancy. It requires injectable blood thinners through the rest of the pregnancy to prevent more clots. The risk of DVT can still be high for at least three months after childbirth.

Elastic compression stockings can ease symptoms and complications of varicose veins during pregnancy. Some women may do well with calf-length support hose. But those with swelling or varicose veins above the upper calf should consider wearing thigh-length support pantyhose with a maternity panel.

Varicose veins that develop or worsen during pregnancy will improve after the childbirth, but they will worsen with each pregnancy afterward. Treating varicose veins between pregnancies can help lessen discomfort and pain in the future.