Is there anything I can do to avoid/minimise Oedema in next pregnancy

[Gonkster]

Am thinking about starting to try for next one. DD 7.5mths old. Overall, pregnancy was fine but the last 2 months were less than great (I think most people find this). But I had pretty bad oedema (swelling of hands feet and lower legs). It wasn't related to anything else (blood pressure was perfect etc). But it stopped me from exercising (i.e. even walking to the shops) as it was so painful afterwards I would have to sit with my legs up for hours afterwards. I found it a bit depressing in the end and am sure that the lack of exercise contributed to my difficult birth.

Is there anything I can do to avoid it/minimise it? Could it have been related to something in my diet? I drank lots and lots of water (as I was told to by midwife)

Please - any ideas or help would be lovely.

I could be wrong but I think oedema is very much a symptom of first pregnancies. I had it badly with dd but not at all with ds.

Oh gosh that gives me such hope... I wondered if it was a 'me' thing and I would just get it with every pregnancy. Although no one in my family (mother, aunts etc) ever had it. But at least there's a chance I may not get it next time.

I hope so for your sake - I found it almost unbearable with dd. Second pregnancy was all round so much easier. Good luck!

I had it with my girls.

Badly with DD1.

With this one, I'm drinking lots and lots of water, avoiding salt as much as possible, exercising (Denise Austin's fitness DVD for preggos), yoga and using the evenings to try to stay off my feet.

Bump

Sorry - another starbump...

Am going to try this under another topic...

I've got it in my hands and feet. Best thing I've found is walking in my sturdy walking shoes (done up tightly so it acts as a support). The movement in your muscles actually keeps the fluid moving around your body rather than letting it settle in the extremities.

Unfortunately my SPD means I can't walk as much as I'd like to. So constant foot rubs and hand massages are necessary.

i had v bad oedema in first pg. this time i am keeping my feet up alot I do a lot of sitting anyway at work plus with the SPD I can't walk much either. I think it has made all the difference so far. I rarely have my feet down if i can help it.