How to Avoid Preeclampsia, Water Retention, and Swelling During Pregnancy

Preeclampsia, toxemia and other pregnancy disorders can be frustrating because so little is known medically about what causes them or what can be done to treat them. I endured severe swelling, headaches and other preeclampsia symptoms in my first pregnancy, but managed to avoid them in my second. If you are struggling with the symptoms of preeclampsia or toxemia (swelling...especially of the face and hands, headaches, high blood pressure, rapid unexplained weight gain, etc.) then here is the "unofficial guide" to beating preeclampsia or toxemia.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Willingness to Try

1. 
    
   Cutting Down on Sodium / Salt Intake Really Helped Prevent Swelling and Water Retention

   Limit Your Salt Intake
   The medical community is divided as to whether or not sodium intake has anything to do with the development of preeclampsia or toxemia. But I can tell you that in my experience it was the single biggest factor in helping me to avoid preeclampsia the second time around. During my first pregnancy I ate normal amounts of food and the same amount of salt that I always had (which was a normal amount...I almost never add salt to my food for taste.) And during that first pregnancy I had VERY severe swelling and water retention. During my second pregnancy I actively cut down on my intake of salty foods (especially thing like cured meats, french fries, chips, etc.) I noticed a huge difference. In fact, when I DID have a salty meal or snack during my second pregnancy I would wake up the next morning with a little swelling in my face. This just confirmed my suspicion that cutting down on salt was making a big difference in my health and the health of my coming baby.

2. 
    
   Switching Positions Can Help Avoid Swelling

   SIT...STAND...LIE DOWN...REPEAT!
   Pregnant women experience twice the blood flow throughout their bodies of non-pregnant women. They also tend to retain water. This extra fluid will pool in the body when a person remains in one position. So try to switch your position at least every half hour or so. If you work at an office, get up and walk around, take breaks, stretch, etc. If you are on your feet alot, try to sit down for at least five to ten minutes at a time every half hour. Also make a point to lie on your left side for several minutes throughout the day. All these things will help to keep blood and fluid from pooling in your body causing swelling.

3. 
    
   Exercising Even a Few Times Per Week Can Make a Huge Difference

   EXCERCISE!
   Study after study shows that women who exercise regularly throughout pregnancy have fewer complications than those who don't. This was certainly true for me. Even though I was almost 10 years younger during my first pregnancy than my second, I stayed in much better shape and had fewer complications during the second pregnancy. I think a lot of this had to do with regular exercise. And it doesn't have to be alot. I swam, walked, or played tennis only three times per week, but it made a huge difference.

4. 
    
   Liquids and Fiber Help Prevent Water Retention and Swelling

   Drink Plenty of Fluids and Stay Regular
   Drinking fluids and eating fiber to stay regular can help you avoid retaining water. When waste is backed up in your body it can cause swelling and water retention. It is important to stay regular by eating plenty of fiber and drinking plenty of fluids. (Do not take laxatives when pregnant without consulting your doctor first.)

Tips & Warnings

• If you begin to see symptoms of preeclampsia or toxemia including swelling...especially in the hands and face, headaches, increased blood pressure, protein in your urine, or rapid, unexplained weight gain...contact your doctor immediately. These are serious conditions that can adversely impact your health and the health of your baby.

Resources

• More Information on Preeclampsia

[kristara]

on 5/16/2009 Great pregnancy tips! 5*

[glennplantone]

on 5/12/2009 Very helpful...thanks.

[sonni57]

on 5/11/2009 Thanks for the helpful pregnancy tips.