According to the National Library of Medicine (NIH), varicose veins and spider veins are common during pregnancy and can affect up to 40 percent of expectant mothers. Hormonal changes, increased blood volume, and the added pressure on leg veins from a growing baby can all contribute to the development of these visible, swollen veins.
While they may be uncomfortable and unappealing, vein problems during pregnancy are usually harmless. However, in some cases, a vein doctor may need to examine the veins more closely.
This blog will help you understand what causes varicose veins during pregnancy, how to manage symptoms, when to seek medical attention, and how a vein specialist can help.
If pregnancy has left you with twisted, swollen veins or uncomfortable leg symptoms, Center for Vein Restoration (CVR) is here to help. Our experienced physicians specialize in diagnosing and treating all types of vein conditions, including pregnancy-related varicose veins, to help you feel your best. With minimally invasive procedures that require little to no downtime, we can help you restore your vein health and get back to enjoying motherhood.
Schedule your consultation CVR today and take the first step toward healthier, pain-free legs.
📞 Call CVR at 240-965-3915
📅 Or book online HERE
Varicose veins form when the tiny valves inside your veins weaken. Instead of pushing blood back to the heart, these valves allow blood to pool, causing the vein to bulge or twist under the skin. During pregnancy, your body undergoes many changes that make varicose veins more likely. Here's why:
1. More Blood Volume
Your body makes more blood to support your growing baby, up to 50 percent more, according to the Cleveland Clinic. But your veins don’t multiply to handle the increase. That added pressure can stretch your vein walls and damage the valves.
2. Hormonal Changes
Higher levels of the hormone progesterone during pregnancy relax your blood vessel walls. This makes it easier for blood to flow backward and pool, which contributes to varicose veins.
3. Uterine Pressure
As your baby grows, your uterus puts pressure on the large vein that carries blood from your legs back to your heart (the inferior vena cava). This makes it harder for blood to flow upward, especially from your lower legs, leading to swelling, leg pain, and varicose veins.
Yes—it is safe to see a vein specialist while pregnant, especially if you're experiencing uncomfortable or concerning symptoms. According to the Cleveland Clinic, a vein specialist can evaluate your symptoms and offer guidance on conservative treatments during pregnancy, such as compression therapy, exercise, and lifestyle changes.
So, if you're experiencing pain, swelling, or signs of more serious vein problems, don’t wait—consult a vein doctor.
However, according to a letter posted by the National Library of Medicine (NIH) titled “Surgical intervention for varicose veins during pregnancy: Is it sensible?” the authors strongly caution against routine surgical intervention for varicose veins during pregnancy, emphasizing that such procedures should only be considered in exceptional cases, like active bleeding. They highlight that varicose veins often regress naturally after childbirth, and intervention should be avoided unless absolutely necessary.”
Most varicose veins during pregnancy are harmless and go away on their own within a few months after delivery. However, some signs mean you should see a CVR vein expert or your OB-GYN right away.
1. Severe Leg Pain or Swelling? It Could Be DVT
Deep vein thrombosis (DVT) is a serious condition where a blood clot forms in a deep vein, usually in the leg. Pregnancy increases the risk of DVT, especially if you’re over 35, carrying multiples, or had a long labor or cesarean delivery. According to Johns Hopkins Medicine, untreated DVT can be life-threatening if the clot travels to the lungs.
Seek emergency care if you have:
CVR offers a same-day DVT rule-out service with ultrasound scans and expert follow-up. For help, call 877-SCAN-DVT (877-722-6388).
2. Vulvar Varicose Veins
Yes, you can get varicose veins in your vulva. These are called vulvar varicosities and are more common than you might think. Symptoms include pressure, swelling, or pain in the vaginal area, especially after standing for long periods.
While they often go away after delivery, they can be very uncomfortable. If you have symptoms, speak with your OB/GYN.
3. Bleeding or Open Sores
Though rare, a varicose vein can rupture or turn into a venous ulcer—an open sore that won’t heal. If a vein bleeds or you notice a sore on your leg that’s slow to close, don’t wait. This can lead to infections and more serious venous insufficiency complications.
While anyone can get varicose veins, certain factors increase your risk during pregnancy:
Even though you can't completely avoid varicose veins during pregnancy, there are ways to lower your risk and ease your symptoms:
✅ Get Moving
Walking, swimming, and prenatal yoga can improve circulation and reduce pressure on your leg veins. Talk to your doctor before starting any new exercise.
✅ Wear Compression Stockings
According to WebMD, compression socks can be a simple yet effective way to alleviate common pregnancy discomforts like leg swelling, aching, and varicose veins. These specially designed stockings gently squeeze the legs, promoting better blood flow, reducing fluid buildup, and supporting the veins as your body adjusts to the increased blood volume of pregnancy.
A Center for Vein Restoration vein specialist can recommend the right fit and strength. CONTACT US HERE to schedule a fitting.
✅ Elevate Your Legs
Rest with your feet above heart level for 15–20 minutes a few times a day. This helps blood drain from your legs and relieves pressure.
✅ Sleep on Your Left Side
Sleeping on your left improves blood return and keeps pressure off the vena cava.
✅ Avoid Long Periods of Standing or Sitting
Set reminders to move every hour. Take short walks or stretch to keep your blood flowing.
Pregnancy can leave you with more than just memories—it can also leave you with painful, swollen veins that don’t always disappear after childbirth. At Center for Vein Restoration, our experienced vein specialists offer state-of-the-art, minimally invasive treatments that can help you find lasting relief. Whether you’re managing pregnancy-related varicose veins or looking to feel confident in your legs again, our team is here to support you every step of the way.
📞 Call us today at 240-965-3915, or
🗓️ Schedule your consultation online.
1. Can I see a vein specialist during pregnancy?
It is safe to see a vein specialist while pregnant, especially if you have discomfort, swelling, or concerns about your veins. While most treatments are postponed until after delivery, a vein specialist can evaluate your condition and recommend conservative therapies like compression stockings, gentle exercise, and lifestyle changes to relieve symptoms.
2. Are varicose veins during pregnancy dangerous?
Most of the time, no. Varicose veins are common during pregnancy and often go away after childbirth. However, in some cases, they may be a sign of a more serious condition like deep vein thrombosis (DVT), which requires immediate medical attention. If you have sudden, painful swelling in one leg, warmth or redness, or persistent leg cramps, contact your doctor or vein specialist right away.
3. What causes varicose veins during pregnancy?
Pregnancy increases blood volume, elevates progesterone (which relaxes blood vessels), and puts pressure on the large vein that returns blood from your legs to your heart. All of these changes can weaken vein walls and valves, leading to blood pooling and visible varicose or spider veins.
4. Will varicose veins go away after pregnancy?
In many cases, yes. Varicose veins that develop during pregnancy often fade within a few months postpartum. However, if your veins remain painful, swollen, or unsightly after delivery, a vein specialist can provide safe, minimally invasive treatment options.
5. How can I prevent or relieve varicose veins while pregnant?
You can lower your risk or ease symptoms by:
Always talk to your OB-GYN before starting any new health regimen during pregnancy.
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