How to Avoid Varicose Veins During Pregnancy

Video Transcript

"Do you want to look like Spiderman when you are done with pregnancy? I don't. I'm Dr. Jill from Tampa, Florida here to tell you how to deal with varicose veins in pregnancy. Some people get them, some people don't. It has a lot to do with your hormones, your change in circulation and your weight gain. Also that burgeoning belly adds pressure to your legs that can also cause varicose veins. Well how do I prevent them? A couple of things. Exercise if you keep up with a good exercise regimen that increased blood flow and improves circulation through the legs. Also rest, when you rest keep those legs elevated and it helps the blood from pooling causing varicose veins. Let's say you are working throughout your pregnancy which I recommend. For standing all day it might be helpful to buy support stockings. Those can be bought at your local drug store or your doctor can give you a prescription. These support stockings give support to the structures that help the blood come back up the legs and prevent it from pooling causing varicose veins. I'm Dr. Jill from Tampa, Florida, telling you how to prevent varicose veins."