Postpartum Varicose Veins

Posted on April 25, 2023

While pregnancy is a time full of excitement and planning, most women expect to encounter certain discomforts, such as back pain and morning sickness. The onset of varicose veins might be a more unexpected side effect of pregnancy but can pose the same level of concern. Though essentially harmless, varicose veins often leave women feeling self-conscious, and they can be quite uncomfortable.

Varicose Veins During Pregnancy

As we know, varicose veins are the result of poor blood flow. These bulging, blue, tangled veins most commonly occur in the legs, with some appearing in the form of hemorrhoids. When pregnant, your blood volume increases in an effort to protect the baby. Additionally, higher levels of the hormone progesterone lead to a relaxation of the smooth muscles that line your veins. Finally, a growing uterus puts extra pressure on the veins of your abdomen and pelvis. In turn, the blood flow to your pelvis and legs is altered as it becomes more difficult for blood to make its way back to your heart.

Minimizing the Development of Varicose Veins While Pregnant

You might not be able to avoid this vein issue altogether, but there are preventative activities for minimizing the impact of varicose veins, such as:

• Reduce your sodium intake. This helps prevent swelling and water retention.
• Walk regularly. Improve your circulation with daily walks.
• Wear compression stockings. These stockings treat existing varicose veins and boost circulation efforts.
• Elevate your feet. Whether lying down or sitting, prop your feet up to promote blood flow back to the heart.

Should I Worry About My Varicose Veins?

Possible complications, though rare, might occur. Ulcers sometimes result from varicose veins, first appearing as discolored skin located around your ankles. You should seek treatment immediately if you experience bleeding from varicose veins or if you feel persistent, one-sided pain indicative of a blood clot. While blood clots are not common in relation to varicose veins, pregnancy does heighten the small likelihood of their occurrence. If your leg is tender, swollen, or warm to the touch, it could mean there is a blood clot deep in your leg.

Varicose Veins after Pregnancy

Once you have given birth, you might wonder why the unsightly varicose veins still exist. After all, blood volume should start to level out, and the weight of the uterus should decrease. However, like many postpartum activities, the fading of these veins takes time. Generally, pregnancy-induced varicose veins should shrink and fade after about twelve weeks unless you had them prior to becoming pregnant, have had several pregnancies, or if you are overweight.

Seeking Treatment

Varicosity Vein Center offers several treatments to help alleviate your varicose vein troubles. These treatments include:

• Endovenous Thermal Ablation
• Endovenous Varithena Ablation
• Microphlebectomy
• Sclerotherapy
• VeinGogh

Our expert clinical staff members provide options based on your individual needs. Offering experienced skill sets and combined knowledge, we can determine a plan that best aligns with your case. If you are concerned about postpartum varicose veins or have any additional vein-related concerns, please contact us today for a consultation.