Swollen feet are among the most daring pregnancy woes women experience regularly, brought by the increasing size and weight of the developing fetus throughout the nine-month pregnancy period.
Pregnancy period’s swelling of the feet is called edema, a condition characterized by having extra fluid collected in the tissue. Pregnancy retains water intake of women, and the pressure on the woman’s veins that comes from the developing baby slows down circulation, thereby collecting excess water in the feet.
Aside from its adverse physical effects, pregnancy’s swollen feet also affect women’s self-esteem during pregnancy. Who wouldn’t feel disheartened when one sees bulging toes and feet that often stay dry as well? And because of swollen feet, women would also have rather limited options for comfortable footwear – high heels are a given no-no during pregnancy, but other flat footwear may still not fit pregnant women comfortably with their big, sore feet.
This pregnancy woe, however, subsides after giving birth, as circulation of body fluids return to their normal pace. But women, uncomfortable as they are with their swollen feet, are advised to take remedies during pregnancy itself.
Some of the common remedies to this are stretching one’s legs, rotating the ankles slowly, and flexing the feet while sitting.
Propping up one’s feet on a pillow while sitting can also help relieve your feet of your heavy pregnancy weight.
Women must also wear comfortable shoes during pregnancy to avoid unnecessary aches caused by high-heeled shoes and the like. Likewise, if women use socks during pregnancy, make sure these are made of comfortable material. Do not settle for tight socks, or those with very thin fabric during pregnancy as these do not give your feet the comfort and protection it needs.
Women can also try exercising during pregnancy to improve their circulation. Drinking the right amount of fluid is likewise needed, especially water and juices.
Women must also be very observant of the swelling in their feet. If the swelling is excessive, and the area around the eyes or face is also swelling, these may be symptoms of preeclampsia – a more serious pregnancy problem related to abnormal blood pressure, which needs to be consulted with the doctor immediately.
Still, pregnancy foot soaks can be used to treat swollen feet.
The Peppermint Honey Feet Treat, for one, moisturizes and soothes the affected area and aides in a better circulation during pregnancy. With a mixture of aloe vera gel, beeswax, honey, peppermint essential oil, arnica, camphor, and eucalyptus oils applied after a bath to the feet and toes, this foot soak will relieve overworked feet during pregnancy. If these are not available, simple regular massages will do the trick.
