Throughout pregnancy there are many physical changes that affect the well-being of the mother and following healthy habits we can control them or minimize the risks. Blood circulation problems during pregnancy They are very frequent and we will see how they manifest.
During pregnancy, so that the uterus and the fetus receive enough oxygen, more liters of blood circulate through the woman's body. This increase in blood volume, which is around 40%, circulating in the body, can favor the appearance of varicose veins.
These are swollen veins (the blood puts more pressure on them) and often painful on the legs, the lips of the vulva (varicose veins in the vulva) and the anus (hemorrhoids).
Increased blood volume they also cause the tissues to accumulate fluid, which can lead to the first signs of edema, the most common: swelling of the ankles and feet (to a lesser extent, the hands and face may also be affected).
This happens because as the pregnancy progresses the pressure of the uterus causes the blood that rises to the heart to circulate more slowly: the fluid from the veins is retained in the tissues of the feet and ankles.
Women who have problems of this type before becoming pregnant are at greater risk of having circulation problems during pregnancy (and more serious). Women who are overweight and who lead a sedentary lifestyle also have a high risk of suffering circulatory problems during pregnancy.
So, Can we do something to avoid or minimize circulatory problems during pregnancy?
Minimize circulation problems during pregnancy
The usual exercise practice during pregnancy (if there is no risk) it is very beneficial in many ways, also to improve blood circulation. There are some more suitable exercises during this stage that can help you: swimming, yoga, walking ... Other specific exercises are:
When we rest lying down, we can and raise our legs above the level of the heart and do "bike" type exercises, pedaling; also drawing circles with the feet to activate the circulation.
Also lying on your back, raise your legs little by little, flexing your knees, trying to form a 90º angle with the trunk. It is easier to do it with one leg first and the other later.
Lying on your side, raise the leg that is up, stretched like a scissor and repeat the exercise several times and changing sides.
Sitting with your legs together and stretched, perform a flexion and extension of both feet alternately, bringing the tips forward and backward.
Sitting and barefoot with a tennis ball on your feet, roll it around, pass it from the tip to the heel of the foot.
Standing, support the heels and tiptoes alternately. Without leaving the site you can also simulate the march by raising your knees a lot.
Eat a healthy diet. With a rich hydration (water is your best ally) it also helps the circulation to be fluid and we have no problems in this regard.
Pregnant women should avoid sitting or standing without moving for a long time, as well as crossing their legs.
During the rest lying down, raise your legs on cushions so that they are above the level of the heart, to "unload" them.
Relaxing massages during pregnancy can also contribute to better circulation (and also have many other benefits).
Do not wear clothes that press the body, or tight shoes, nor heels (especially at the end of pregnancy). A comfortable footwear is essential for the feet, normally swollen. Avoid saunas and extreme heat.
In summer, try to be in cool places and exercise in the least hot moments and without direct sun exposure.
In short, although circulation problems during pregnancy are very frequent, there are many ways to minimize risks. It is best to lead an active and healthy lifestyle and if the discomfort does not allow you to keep a normal rhythm, consult the gynecologist.
Photos | Thinckstock
In Babies and more | Combat the effects of poor circulation, relaxing massages during pregnancy
