Of course anyone with swollen ankles during pregnancy needs to be checked out for pre-eclampsia. Excluding this, it is relatively 'normal' to experience some swelling of ankles or wrists and hands during pregnancy as the body naturally retains more water. The body finds it more difficult to cope with this extra fluid which can then result in swelling. This can often improve over night but then get worse during the day. Some ladies can't wear normal shoes and experience a great deal of discomfort and even moderate immobility.
There is help available!
Although most GP's are not aware of it. MLD massage stimulates the lymphatic system. This is the system that normally keeps that fluid balance in your body. MLD massage helps the body to speed up this natural circulatory system and get rid of excess fluid (you pee a lot getting rid of all that fluid!). It is also a very relaxing nurturing massage which does wonders for your whole wellbeing. This is a clinical massage and is used widely in Europe and the US. Unfortunately in our NHS it is only used as a part of specialist lymphoedema treatment and not extended to other areas of benefit.... yet! For more info www.mlduk.org.uk/media/pdf/MLDpregnancy.pdf www.dralisonmerrick.co.uk