Edema During Pregnancy

Edema during pregnancy - retaining water - is quite common especially in the second or third trimesters. Edema symptoms are most commonly seen in the feet and legs, where it is referred to as peripheral edema.

The swelling is the result of the accumulation of excess fluid under the skin in the spaces within your tissues.

A certain amount of swelling during pregnancy is normal because you retain more water while pregnant, especially just before labor. Moreover, certain changes in your blood chemistry cause more fluids to shift into your tissues.

Minor swelling of the feet, ankles and hands is quite common - 8 out of 10 women will have some - and is no cause for concern. Your face could also be affected a little.

Edema usually is worse at the end of the day and in warm weather, or after exercise such as walking.

The good news is that after you have your baby, the swelling will disappear fairly rapidly as your body eliminates the excess fluid. You may find yourself urinating frequently and sweating a lot in the first days after childbirth.

If, however, swelling is accompanied by either one of these symptoms:

a climb in your blood pressure

the spilling of protein in your urine

Then, there is cause for concern as these could be the signs of pre-eclampsia - toxemia.

Pre-eclampsia is a potentially life threatening complication of pregnancy. Know that the type of edema that usually accompanies pre-eclampsia is pitting edema.

Pitting edema is tested by applying pressure to the swollen area by depressing the skin with a finger. If the pressing causes an indentation that persists for some time after the release of the pressure, the edema is referred to as pitting edema.

If you have those symptoms please let your health care provider know. It is always better to exercise caution.

Edema During Pregnancy: Helpful Hints

Note: In a pool, the pressure from the water will help move the fluids from your swollen feet and legs.

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Edema During Pregnancy: Conclusion

In conclusion, do not get too saddened when your feet start looking like pudgy baby feet. This too shall pass.

Really.

Remember the big picture, your body is amazing, it is supplying your needs as well as your growing baby's. You are nurturing and growing another human being. Yes, it comes with a price...

...but we say it is more than worth it!

So go ahead, rest, put your feet up, enjoy a cup of pregnancy tea ...you deserve it.