Fluid accumulation in the body is referred to as edema. Some degree of edema during pregnancy is completely normal. As baby grows it puts pressure on the veins returning blood to the heart leading to puffy legs, ankles, feet and occasionally the upper body and face. The adrenal glands also produce hormones that promote fluid retention which contributes to between three and ten pounds of total weight during pregnancy. It is always recommended to speak with your midwife or doctor about the edema you are experiencing as it could be a more serious condition such as preeclampsia or a blood clot (deep vein thrombosis).

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