How To Reduce Swelling During Pregnancy

Pregnancy is supposed to be one of the happiest times in a woman’s life. If we could just tweak a few things that accompany pregnancy, life would be great for moms-to-be everywhere. While swelling of legs, arms and other body parts during pregnancy is not only normal, it is expected since approximately 25% of a woman’s pregnancy weight gain is due to increased fluids. Fluid retention in legs and hands is almost inevitable during pregnancy, but will usually go away immediately after the baby is delivered. Although we have come to the conclusion that swelling is going to happen, we must also be aware that all swelling is not considered normal. Knowledge of how to reduce swelling that is unwanted can make a difference.

It is important to pay attention to the swelling and what it is accompanied by. For instance, if you notice sudden fluid retention in legs, swelling of hands and face along with a headache that does not go away or unexplained abdominal pain; this could be a sign of a condition known as preeclampsia or toxemia, which can affect a woman’s kidneys, liver, and brain. So be sure to notify your doctor immediately as this condition could prove fatal for both mom and child if it is not treated quickly. First time moms are at a much higher risk to experience symptoms of toxemia or preeclampsia so be sure to pay very close attention to what is happening to your body in addition to the fluid retention in the legs and other areas of your body.

Learning how to reduce swelling once it has presented itself should not be too problematic. Keep in mind just because you get rid of it today doesn’t mean it won’t sneak right back up tomorrow. First lesson of how to reduce swelling during your pregnancy is to know that it has to be treated on a day to day basis as needed. Though swelling may be experienced at any point during pregnancy, it tends to be noticed more around the fifth month and can increase while you are in the third trimester. If you have taken all the necessary steps to prevent fluid retention in legs and other affected areas of the body, but you still notice that it’s bothersome, here are a few options on how to reduce swelling that you may want to try.

• Drinking at least eight 8-ounce glasses of water daily is a key factor in having a healthy pregnancy so keep a glass nearby.
• Avoid sodium intake as it causes our bodies to retain fluid.
• Avoid caffeine since it is known to dehydrate our bodies.
• Walk to increase circulation and to help with fluid retention in legs
• Avoid junk foods
• Eat food high in potassium such as bananas, raisins and fish.
• Avoid the summertime heat to avoid dehydration
• Elevate your feet to reduce fluid retention in legs and feet.
• Drink some more water!!

Just remember, fluid retention in legs can be a normal part of pregnancy. Although uncomfortable and inconvenient, it will be over soon. As a precaution, discuss any concerns you may have with your doctor and follow his recommendations on how to reduce swelling.