Under the influence of pregnancy hormones, the walls and valves of your veins relax and stretch. As a result, the blood tends to pool in your legs and lower body. For some women these changes are particularly marked, and superficial veins in their legs become distended, swollen, itchy and painful. These are called varicose veins.

Varicose veins occur most commonly in the lower legs, but may also develop in the thighs and vulva (between your legs). Varicose veins around the anus/back passage are called haemorrhoids (piles).

You may be more likely to develop varicose veins if you put on a lot of weight, or if you are pregnant with more than one baby. A tendency to varicose veins may also run in families.

Mild varicose veins generally disappear within a few months of your baby’s birth. Others may appear to get better, but flare up again in future pregnancies. Very bad varicose veins may require surgery.

What can I do?

• Try and avoid standing for long periods or, if you have to stand, keep moving your feet.
• When sitting, try not to cross your legs. Keep your circulation going by pointing and flexing your toes, and circling your ankles. Putting your feet up will give short-term relief.
• Try raising the foot of your bed by 15cm or so.
• Good quality support tights can really help. For best effect, put them on before you get out of bed in the morning, or after lying down for 10 minutes.
• Avoid trousers, leggings, or socks that constrict the top of your legs, knees or crotch.
• Some people think that your circulation may be improved by eating garlic – either in your food, or in slow-release capsules.

Revised by babyworld midwife, Hannah Hulme Hunter November 2000.