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Exercising with Varicose Veins During Pregnancy: What You Should Know?
Being pregnant can come with its fair share of aches and pains! Fortunately, daily exercise can help to ease some of the discomforts associated with pregnancy and can even lead to a healthier pregnancy and labor. But for those with varicose veins, the question often arises of whether or not it is safe to exercise with varicose veins during pregnancy. So, let’s get into the details of what you should know about exercising with varicose veins during pregnancy.
What are Varicose Veins?
Varicose veins are large and swollen veins that can be seen through the skin. During pregnancy, these veins often form in the legs, abdominals, and other areas of the body. This is because of the extra weight a woman carries when pregnant, and hormones can also play a role in increasing their development.
Exercising with Varicose Veins During Pregnancy: Is It Safe?
Yes, for most pregnant women, it is safe to exercise with varicose veins during pregnancy. Low-impact exercises such as walking, stretching, and swimming can help to reduce the swelling of varicose veins. However, it is important to listen to your body and take note of any discomfort and increase in swelling.
Tips for Exercising with Varicose Veins During Pregnancy
- Be mindful of pressure: Pressing or rubbing against varicose veins can worsen their appearance and even cause pain. Avoid putting too much pressure on your varicose veins while exercising or wear loose clothing to ensure they remain comfortable.
- Wear supportive stockings: Graduated compression stockings can help to provide added support and can alleviate long periods of standing or sitting.
- Go for low-impact exercises: Activities such as swimming, yoga, pilates, and walking can help to reduce any swelling and discomfort in your varicose veins.
- Keep hydrated: Staying hydrated is important for overall health and can help to ease any pain or discomfort that comes with varicose veins.
- Rest and elevate your legs: Taking rests and elevating your legs when possible can help to reduce the swelling of varicose veins.
What If Varicose Veins are Severe?
It is important to contact your doctor at the first sign of varicose veins or if they become very uncomfortable during exercise. There are a number of treatments available to help reduce or prevent further development of varicose veins.
The Bottom Line
Exercising with varicose veins during pregnancy is usually safe when done in moderation and under the advice of your doctor. Keeping a close eye on your body and any changes to your varicose veins is important for a healthy and safe pregnancy.
