In order to meet the needs of the developing baby during pregnancy, the body produces approximately 50% more body fluids and blood which causes swelling mainly in the hands, face, legs, ankles and feet. This is called oedema or water retention.
This extra retention of fluid helps the body to soften, which allows it to expand as the baby develops. The extra fluids account for approximately 25% of the weight gain during pregnancy. Unfortunately, around 50 to 80% of healthy pregnant women have oedema, mostly from the third trimester onward till end of pregnancy.
However, if you have sudden or severe swelling in your face, hands or feet consult your doctor immediately, as it could be pre-eclampsia.
Precautions to take
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Don’t be out for long when it is hot.
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Whenever possible put your feet up, it helps blood circulation. At work keep a small footstool under your table. At home, try to lie down on your left side, so that the uterus does not put pressure on the veins that circulate blood from legs to the heart.
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Wear comfortable clothes & shoes, avoid high heals.
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Wear supportive tights or stockings after you are out of bed.
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Use ice packs on swollen areas.
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Massage swollen areas in upward direction.
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Eat healthy, try to minimize your sodium(salt) intake.
Does water retention risk the health of baby?
No, presence of oedema/water retention does not affect the health of baby.
Is water retention present after delivery?
After delivery, your hormones return to normal. The swelling in hands/ feet reduces as you pass urine & flush the water out of the body.
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