You’re expecting a baby? Congratulations! Fair warning: As your pregnancy progresses, you may experience leg swelling, a common and often uncomfortable side effect of the body’s increased fluid volume and circulation demands.
According to the Mayo Clinic, leg swelling during pregnancy is especially common late in the day and during warmer weather. It can get worse if you spend a lot of time on your feet or sit for long periods without moving, and it usually goes away within a few weeks after the baby is born.
Of course, beyond any lingering health concerns, a playful question often arises: Does leg swelling during pregnancy indicate whether you’re carrying a boy or a girl?
Let’s explore this popular myth—and more importantly, explain what really causes swollen legs during pregnancy and when they might signal a vein problem like varicose veins or venous insufficiency.
Trust the nation’s leading vein specialists at Center for Vein Restoration (CVR) to deliver safe, effective, and personalized treatment plans designed to meet women’s unique health needs. Whether you're managing the changes of pregnancy, aging, or a busy lifestyle, CVR offers compassionate care and innovative solutions to help you feel confident, comfortable, and supported every step of the way.
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There’s an old wives’ tale that says if your legs swell a lot during pregnancy, you’re more likely to be carrying a boy. Others believe swelling means a girl. The truth? There’s no scientific evidence linking leg swelling during pregnancy with your baby’s sex.
Baby gender myths about babies are fun to talk about, but they aren’t based on science. The most reliable way to determine your baby’s gender is through an ultrasound or genetic test recommended by your doctor. According to Parents.com, these studies are nearly 100 percent accurate at predicting sex after 14 weeks.
So, if it’s not the baby’s gender, what causes swollen legs during pregnancy?
Your body holds more fluid during pregnancy to support you and your growing baby. This extra fluid can build up, especially in your lower legs, ankles, and feet. Your expanding uterus also puts pressure on the veins in your pelvis and legs, making it harder for blood to flow back to your heart. This can lead to swelling, also known as edema.
Mild swelling in your legs is normal during pregnancy. But if your legs feel painful, heavy, or itchy, or you see blue, bulging veins, it could be a sign of vein disease. These symptoms may point to varicose veins or chronic venous insufficiency—conditions that affect how blood flows through your veins.
Common signs of vein problems in pregnancy:
Varicose veins are swollen, twisted veins that often appear on the legs. They're caused by weakened valves in the veins that allow blood to pool. Spider veins are smaller and closer to the surface of the skin but may still cause discomfort.
According to the Cleveland Clinic, pregnancy is a major risk factor for varicose veins. Hormonal changes and increased pressure on the veins play a big role. While varicose veins during pregnancy are usually managed without treatment, Center for Vein Restoration offers expert guidance to help relieve symptoms safely. After childbirth, our specialists can discuss personalized treatment options to restore your comfort and vein health.
According to Healthline, while most swelling, especially in the legs, feet, and hands, is harmless, it’s important to know when it may signal a more serious condition like preeclampsia or deep vein thrombosis (DVT). Speak to your doctor if you experience sudden or worsening swelling, nausea or vomiting, shortness of breath, swelling in one leg, skin that feels warm to the touch in the affected area, or red or discolored skin on the leg.
Skip the ER: Get Fast, Expert DVT Evaluation and Treatment!
At Center for Vein Restoration (CVR), we offer a safe and efficient alternative to the long wait in the emergency room. CVR’s deep vein thrombosis (DVT) rule-out service includes:
To schedule a DVT rule-out appointment offered by Center for Restoration, call 877-SCAN-DVT (877-722-6388).
You don’t have to suffer through leg pain or swelling during pregnancy. There are ways to feel better and lower your risk of developing or worsening vein disease.
Tips to reduce leg swelling and prevent vein problems:
These steps can improve circulation and reduce discomfort. According to NYU Langone Health, these lifestyle changes are the first line of defense against varicose veins at any time, including during pregnancy.
If you notice worsening symptoms or are concerned about how your legs look or feel, visit a vein specialist. A vein expert can check for venous insufficiency and recommend safe, effective vein treatments—even during or after pregnancy.
At a Center for Vein Restoration (CVR), you can expect a painless, non-invasive exam and a personalized treatment plan. In some cases, conservative care like compression therapy is enough. After you’ve had your baby, you might be a candidate for minimally invasive vein treatment to relieve discomfort and improve the appearance of your legs.
These outpatient procedures are performed in a comfortable office setting with no downtime, so you can get back to chasing toddlers, running errands, or maybe—just maybe—enjoying a quiet moment to yourself.
❓Questions? Our helpful Patient Services Representatives are here to answer your questions. Call 240-965-3915
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1. Can I treat varicose veins during pregnancy?
Most varicose veins that appear during pregnancy are managed without treatment, since they often improve after childbirth. However, if you’re experiencing discomfort, a vein specialist can recommend safe, conservative options—like compression stockings and leg elevation—to help relieve your symptoms until treatment can be considered post-delivery.
2. How do I know if my leg swelling is normal or something more serious?
Normal pregnancy-related swelling usually develops gradually and affects both legs. It could indicate a blood clot if you experience sudden or severe swelling—especially in one leg—along with symptoms like pain, redness, or warmth. Swelling in the face or hands, combined with symptoms like headaches or vision changes, may signal preeclampsia. Always contact your doctor if you’re concerned.
3. Will varicose veins go away after pregnancy?
In many cases, varicose veins caused by pregnancy improve within a few months after delivery as hormone levels stabilize and the pressure on the veins decreases. A vein specialist can evaluate your condition and discuss safe, minimally invasive treatment options if they persist or worsen.
4. When should I see a vein specialist during or after pregnancy?
If you have painful, bulging veins, leg heaviness, or persistent swelling that affects your daily comfort, it’s a good idea to consult a vein expert. At Center for Vein Restoration, our specialists can offer guidance during pregnancy and provide advanced treatment options tailored to your needs after childbirth.
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