Pregnancy Varicose Veins: Will They Go Away?
Why do pregnant women get varicose veins?
It is extremely common for women to develop varicose veins during pregnancy. Their bodies go through several changes that make them more susceptible including hormonal changes, increased blood volume and obstruction of blood flow.
The likelihood of a woman getting varicose veins during pregnancy also increases as the number of pregnancies increases, so it’s possible to experience varicose vein symptoms even if you’ve had previous pregnancies with no symptoms. In a study carried out by the Center for Continuing Medical Education at Ohio State University, 405 women with varicose veins were surveyed and results showed that 13% had one pregnancy, 30% had two pregnancies and 57% had three pregnancies.
Genetics also plays a factor; if one of the mother’s parents has had varicose veins, she is at an increased risk for developing them during pregnancy. Besides appearing in the legs, varicose veins can develop in other areas during pregnancy including the vulva, or the buttocks in the form of hemorrhoids.
Will varicose veins go away after pregnancy?
After a woman has given birth, her body begins to recover from the hormonal and vascular changes of the pregnancy. In most cases, their varicose veins will become much less severe shortly after giving birth and can disappear in the months following delivery. However, in some women symptoms may not subside, causing continued pain and discomfort.
When to get treatment
It is highly recommended that you stay away from any surgical treatments for varicose veins while you are pregnant as this could endanger the child, and it is not yet clear whether the symptoms will subside after the pregnancy. However, your vein doctor can offer some measures to help ease the symptoms and prevent them from getting worse. Common methods include the use of compression stockings, suggestions on how and when to elevate your legs, and gentle forms of exercise. It is important to consult with a vein specialist so they can make recommendations based on your particular condition.
If your symptoms continue after your pregnancy, revisit your vein doctor for a consultation to go over your options. There are a number of minimally invasive treatments available that will have you home to your family that same day, allowing for a comfortable recovery and a quick return to your daily activities.
Dr. Kaveh is a renowned vein doctor in Las Vegas who has helped patients with varicose veins and related afflictions for over 30 years. If you have any questions about why varicose veins appear during pregnancy and how to treat them after giving birth give us a call at (702) 233-1849.