Swollen ankles, feet and fingers during pregnancy

In medical-speak it's oedema but we call it swelling.

Swollen ankles, feet and fingers during pregnancy is an(other) aesthetically challenging (and uncomfortable) aspect of pregnancy. It happens because your body is retaining more fluid than usual, particularly during hot weather.

"I had swollen fingers with my first pregnancy - couldn't get wedding ring off and they thought they might have to cut it off if the swelling increased. Also the only shoes I could comfortably wear were flip flops. Very chic with the work outfits!" Sponge

"My ankles were like stress balls - you could nearly get your whole finger in them." Mmmmchocolate

One mum advises: "Put a pillow or folded blanket under the foot end of your mattress, sit with your feet up, go for a walk when it is cool (morning or evening), drink plenty of water and herbal teas like fennel and peppermint." Madmouse

If you get sudden swelling, you should contact your GP or midwife because it can be one of the symptoms of pre-eclampsia.

"My midwife told me not to worry unless I got other pre-eclampsia symptoms like swelling elsewhere, bad headaches, flashing spots in your vision or high blood pressure (there are a few others). She said isolated swollen ankles were to be expected and I should just put my feet up more." HollyGoHeavily

A decent excuse if ever we heard one for getting someone else to do the running around.

 

Stretch marks | Weight gain | Morning sickness | Tiredness | Constipation | Hyperemesis | High blood pressure and pre-eclampsia | Cholestasis | Symphysis pubis dysfunction | Vaginal bleeding | Gestational diabetes