Is pregnancy swelling normal?
Swelling up or feeling puffy during pregnancy is a natural reaction to all the extra fluid you’re carrying around. Most pregnant women feel it in their ankles and feet, especially after standing up for a long time. You might also notice your rings feeling tighter on your fingers or see some puffiness in your face.
Swelling that increases as the day progresses, especially getting worse towards the evening, is often due to the day’s activities or hot weather.
Although it may be uncomfortable, pregnancy swelling without other symptoms is usually nothing to worry about and isn’t harmful to you or your baby. But if your swelling is excessive, then you may have high blood pressure, so keep an eye on it and talk to your health care professional if you are concerned.
Tips to reduce swelling during pregnancy
- Eating healthily can help to keep any puffiness down. Garlic, raw onions and apples are thought to be extra effective, and try to avoid salty foods which can dehydrate you
- Try to exercise regularly, especially going for walks
- Drink lots of water, at least six to eight glasses per day. If you don’t drink enough, your body might try to retain even more water and that will make you puffier
- Take rests during the day whenever you can, with your feet up above your waist
- Avoid standing for long periods of time
- A gentle massage can help
- Sleep on your left hand side to avoid putting too much pressure on a large vein called the vena cava that runs up your right hand side