Dealing with Swollen Ankles and Feet During Pregnancy

One of the many maladies pregnant women have to deal with is swollen ankles and feet during pregnancy, especially as the pregnancy progresses. Shoes may become too tight to wear, socks may cut off circulation. The official word for this symptom is edema. However, there are some things pregnant women can do to help alleviate their swollen feet and ankles. It's important to note, that if your feet and ankles are still swollen after twelve hours of rest, you need to contact your care provider as this is a symptom of a serious pregnancy condition called preeclampsia.

Drink more Water

First, pregnant women need to looks at their water intake. If our bodies aren't getting enough water, they will store extra water. Swollen feet and ankles are due to extra water being stored beneath the skin in the tissues. Up your water intake and see if this helps elevate the discomfort. You may notice that it'll take twenty-four to thirty-six hours for the problem to correct, and you may actually swell up a little more. Stick with it! Once your body receives the signal it's getting enough water, it'll flush the excess water out of your tissues. You will know you're drinking enough water if your urine is clear or a pale yellow in color.

Eat less Salt

Look at your salt intake. If you eat a lot of processed, salty foods, this can cause your body to store excess water. Try not to eat processed deli meats and salty snack foods. Check the sodium level on canned foods such as chili and soups; you may be getting more salt than you realize.

Exercise, Exercise, Exercise

Are you getting some exercise? It's very easy for pregnant woman to go from their desks to their cars and then to their couch. Walking around the block once a day or walking around a shopping center may also help with the swelling in your feet and ankles. At work, try to walk around the parking lot or your office. Walk memos and papers over to your co-workers desks or use the bathroom that the furthest from your desk.

Check your Clothing