Swelling can be quite uncomfortable for pregnant woman. Here are some suggestions to help!

• Lying on your back with your legs up a wall mentioned (see our yoga pregnancy post here) is a very common way to help alleviate some of the pressure.
• Having an exercise routine that is safe for you and your baby is particularly important and beneficial.
• Other ideas include:
  • juicing raw dandelion greens for their powerful anti-diuretic effects
  • wearing compression stockings (if approved by your healthcare provider)
  • sleep on your side to alleviate pressure on the vena cava (largest vein where blood returns to the heart from entire body)
  • avoid standing for extended periods of time, and
  • use cold compresses over areas of edema to reduce swelling.

It is important to continue drinking a healthy amount of water each day – usually around 2 litres while pregnant.

Find out what why women’s legs swell during pregnancy and about other pregnancy concerns here.