Pregnancy comes with a long list of physical changes. Some you anticipate. Others, not so much. One that catches a lot of people off guard? Varicose veins. Those swollen, twisty lines that show up on your legs or, in some cases, other areas you didn’t think veins could reach.
They’re not exactly something you circle on your baby registry, but they’re common, manageable, and usually harmless. Let’s break down why they happen, what you can do about them, and whether they’re something to worry about.
Why do varicose veins show up during pregnancy?
Here’s what’s going on behind the scenes. During pregnancy, your blood volume increases significantly to support your growing baby. That’s great for fetal development, but it puts extra pressure on your veins, especially the ones in your lower body. Your hormones are also shifting, and one of them, progesterone, tends to relax the walls of your blood vessels. Then there’s the growing uterus, which presses on the veins in your pelvis and slows down circulation from your legs back to your heart.
It’s a perfect combination for veins to stretch and swell.
If it feels like your body’s plumbing is struggling under pressure, that’s basically what’s happening.
What do varicose veins actually look and feel like?
Visually, they’re hard to miss. They might appear as blue or purple bulges, mostly on the calves, behind the knees, or around the ankles. Some are small and thread-like (technically called spider veins), while others are more raised and rope-like.
They can ache, throb, or cause a feeling of heaviness, especially after long periods of standing. Some people experience itching or a burning sensation. For others, they’re painless but still frustrating to see.
It’s not just a cosmetic issue for many people, but the emotional weight of feeling self-conscious about your appearance during a vulnerable time is real too. That part often gets glossed over, but it matters.
Are they dangerous, or just uncomfortable?
Most of the time, varicose veins during pregnancy are harmless and tend to fade or improve within a few months after delivery. They’re more of a temporary nuisance than a serious health issue.
That said, there are exceptions. If a vein becomes suddenly swollen, hot to the touch, or intensely painful, it could be a sign of a blood clot. Deep vein thrombosis (DVT) is rare, but it does happen, and it needs immediate medical attention. Also, if a vein starts bleeding or causes significant discomfort, it’s worth getting checked out.
The general rule is: if something feels off, talk to your doctor. It’s better to ask than assume.
Can you prevent them? Or at least keep them from getting worse?
You can’t always prevent varicose veins, especially if they run in your family, but you can lower the odds or reduce the symptoms. Here’s what tends to help:
- Stay active. Even short walks around the block or stretching your legs during the day can keep circulation moving.
- Elevate your legs. When you’re sitting or lying down, prop your feet up to help blood flow upward.
- Wear compression socks or tights. They’re snug and not exactly stylish, but they work by gently squeezing your legs to keep blood from pooling.
- Avoid standing or sitting for too long. Try to switch positions frequently and don’t sit with your legs crossed.
- Sleep on your left side. This takes pressure off a major vein that carries blood back to your heart.
It’s about reducing pressure and helping your veins do their job with less strain.
What about treatment? Can you get rid of them?
Treatment options during pregnancy are limited, mostly because many procedures are considered unnecessary or unsafe while pregnant. But after you give birth and your hormones settle, you’ll have more choices.
Sclerotherapy, which involves injecting a solution into the vein to close it, is common. There are also laser treatments and other minimally invasive procedures. Most are outpatient and relatively low-risk.
Cost can be a factor. Some insurance plans cover treatment if the veins are causing physical symptoms like pain or swelling. If it’s purely cosmetic, you might end up paying out of pocket. Always worth checking before booking anything.
If the veins don’t improve after delivery or start causing more discomfort, it might be time to consult a varicose vein specialist. These professionals can walk you through treatment options like sclerotherapy or laser procedures, depending on your specific needs.
What other moms have said about it
Everyone’s experience is different, but one thing a lot of people agree on: it helps to hear you’re not the only one dealing with it.
“I got them by the start of my second trimester,” said Keira, a mom of two. “I was surprised how much they ached at night. Compression socks helped, even though I felt ridiculous wearing them to bed.”
Another mom, Dana, said, “Honestly, I didn’t care that much by the end. I was swollen, tired, and focused on keeping my toddler from climbing on the kitchen table. The veins were just part of the background.”
That sense of perspective doesn’t always come right away, but it’s reassuring to know this is a shared experience.
So, is this just one more thing to deal with?
Kind of. But like many other changes during pregnancy, it’s temporary for most people. Some veins might stick around longer than you’d like, but they can be treated later. And they don’t say anything about how healthy your pregnancy is or how well you’re doing.
Pregnancy asks a lot of your body. It changes how you move, how you sleep, and yes, sometimes how your legs look. But none of that takes away from what your body is managing every single day.
If you’re dealing with varicose veins right now, give yourself a little credit. You’re not ignoring them, but you’re also not letting them run the show. That balance? It counts.
Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult your healthcare provider with any questions or concerns regarding your symptoms or treatment options.
