Varicose veins are very common during pregnancy because the growing baby, the uterus and the placenta all contribute to the weight pressing down on the veins in the pelvis and also the pressure on the large vein known as the inferior vena cava.
The inferior vena cava is located on the body’s right side and is responsible for circulating blood from the lower limbs and from most of the organs located in the tummy and pelvis area. When a lot of pressure is exerted on this main blood vessel this makes it difficult for the blood coming from the legs to make its way back to the heart.
When one is pregnant, they also have an increased amount of blood circulating around the body and also large amounts of the hormone progesterone which is the pregnancy hormone that relaxes the walls of the blood vessels. With all those factors combined, they contribute to the swelling of the veins in the legs. However, the swelling is bound to go down after the baby is born.
Do Varicose Veins Put Your Pregnancy At Risk?
Generally, they can’t put your pregnancy at risk and they also cant cause serious problems during pregnancy as long as they don’t occur in the vagina area and the back passage. If they occur in the perineum which is also the back passage, the midwife will have to watch closely during the childbearing process and ensure that the back passage doesn’t tear while pushing the baby out of the birth canal.
Tearing of the perineum usually causes severe bleeding which can even lead to death. So the midwife will instruct the mother to push slowly and maintain certain positions that will not exert more pressure in the area.
The skin where the varicose veins are is usually very thin and severe bleeding usually occurs when there is a forceful impact or a cut on it. The bleeding can be too much and might even require immediate medical attention to stop it.
Due to a lack of oxygen, fresh blood and nutrients in the varicose veins area of the skin, waste products would normally build up and cause the skin to harden, causing eczema or ulcers. Seeking medical attention immediately after one notices such signs is advised.
Deep vein thrombosis is one condition that some pregnant mothers with varicose veins can develop, however, this rarely happens and when it does, treatment can be done.
Speak about rarely-happens conditions during pregnancy, pregnancy-related osteoporosis is also a very rare condition characterised by the occurrence of a fracture during pregnancy or the puerperium. Despite its relative rarity, it can be a dangerous condition that causes severe back pain, height loss and disability.
When Varicose Veins Don’t Disappear After Birth
When varicose veins stubbornly persist beyond the postpartum period, it’s imperative to seek treatment. It’s especially important to consider treatment options after completing your family planning, as these veins often worsen with each subsequent pregnancy. Once you’ve decided to stop having children, you can explore various effective treatments to eliminate varicose veins permanently. These treatment options include chemical injections, radiotherapy, surgical interventions, or laser therapy.
Choosing to address varicose veins promptly after childbirth is highly recommended. The sooner you seek treatment, the better your chances of achieving optimal results in both appearance and overall vein health. Don’t let lingering varicose veins affect your quality of life; take proactive steps to restore your leg’s health and aesthetics.
Nothing To Worry About
If you’re pregnant and experiencing varicose veins, it’s essential to prioritize your health and well-being. Regular checkups with your healthcare provider are crucial during this time. Additionally, when it comes to childbirth, it’s advisable to have your midwife prepared to assist you, especially if the varicose veins are located in the vaginal area or perineum. However, it’s essential to remember that while varicose veins can be uncomfortable, they typically don’t pose a significant risk to your pregnancy.
With proper medical care and attention, the likelihood of a successful birth remains high. If you’re staying informed, attending regular checkups, and having a supportive healthcare team, you can navigate pregnancy with varicose veins and focus on the joy of welcoming your new addition to the family.”
