Experiencing edema during pregnancy is perhaps one of the most important difficulties experienced during pregnancy. Edema, which is called swelling in the body, is actually caused by the body retaining water. Swelling, especially in the hands, feet and even the face, can sometimes be so challenging that it can progress to difficulty closing the hands, standing and even walking. Why does edema occur during pregnancy and how can it be prevented? Liv Hospital Gynecology and Obstetrics Specialist Op.Dr. Tamer Sözen explained.
Drink more water while pregnant
The daily water need of a pregnant woman is higher than the water needs of non-pregnant people. One of the functions of water during pregnancy is to provide the baby with the necessary support as he grows and also to prepare him for birth. Of course, when you drink a lot of water, some of this excess fluid is retained by the body, and some of the weight gained by the expectant mother during pregnancy is the excess fluid retained by the body.
What is edema during pregnancy?
During pregnancy, the volume of blood circulating in women's veins increases by approximately 50 percent. With increasing blood volume, there is also some expansion in the vessels. Some of the excess fluid accumulates in the tissue, between the cells. The swelling that occurs in this case is called edema. Edema is observed in almost 90% of all pregnant women.
Take enough salt, not too little
Another cause of swelling is eating habits. It has been determined that a significant portion of those who have a lot of swelling problems do not consume enough protein. While the required protein can be obtained through meat and similar nutrients, it may also be sufficient to consume at least 1 liter of milk or dairy products a day. Sometimes it can be seen that the problem is solved by simply increasing the protein intake to an adequate level.
Another approach to nutrition is appropriate salt intake. Many people think that too much salt causes water retention and thus swelling; but the opposite is also true. In other words, insufficient salt intake can also cause edema.
Another way to prevent swelling is hydrotherapy. In a recent study, exercise in water or even just resting the feet in a bathtub filled with warm water for a while It has been observed that edema supports the pregnant uterus.
How to prevent edema during pregnancy?
First of all, edema during pregnancy is a normal condition when the pregnancy process is evaluated. Edema should not be seen as excess weight. But there are precautions you can easily take to prevent further edema.
Elevate your feet and rest them.
It is normal for your feet to get tired and swell during pregnancy. Whenever you get a chance during the day, put your foot on a chair and lift it up for a while. Rest your feet by stretching them straight and, if possible, keep them elevated by placing a pillow or elevation underneath them. Do not cross your legs while sitting. If you work, sit at home as long as possible in the evenings and do not let your feet dangle while sitting. Keep your feet above heart level while sleeping.
Lie down a lot, rest, sleep.
After pregnancy and birth, rest or sleep will be a dream anyway. Therefore, get plenty of sleep, rest, and be careful to lie on your left side while resting. You can support your abdomen with a light, soft pillow.
Drink fluids
Contrary to popular belief, drinking water does not increase swelling, on the contrary, it reduces it. Make sure to drink at least 8-10 glasses of water a day.
Take short walks
Like other common problems during pregnancy, swelling is milder in those who exercise and walk regularly. Walking and moving makes your leg veins work more effectively and facilitates the dispersion of the fluid accumulated in the tissue space.
Choose light and comfortable clothes
Any clothes that are tight and sticky to the body and that do not allow air to flow. Stay away from clothing. Choose fabrics that will not cause sweat. Dress in layers but lightly. Wear comfortable, low-heeled shoes. If swelling is very bothersome and you have varicose veins, wearing compression socks may be beneficial. Prefer socks specially produced for this purpose for pregnant women.
Pay attention to your diet
Salt restriction may reduce swelling in the first place, but it may not be of any use in the long term. Take appropriate amount of salt. Do not add extra salt to meals.
Your controls Do not neglect
Edema during pregnancy is most of the time harmless and even expected. However, it may also be a sign of latent diabetes or hypertension during pregnancy. That's why your doctor's visits are important.
If the payment is accompanied by headache and abdominal pain, be careful!
As long as the swelling seen in pregnant women is only in the feet and ankles, it is not a serious medical condition. However, if there are complaints such as headache, visual impairment, abdominal pain that do not respond to simple painkillers, or if there are symptoms such as high blood pressure and increased protein output in the urine, it is necessary to consult a doctor. Sometimes it can be a sign of pregnancy poisoning, called preeclampsia. In this very dangerous disease, edema is accompanied by urine protein output and high blood pressure.
What are the herbal teas that can be consumed to reduce edema during pregnancy?
Chamomile : It eases your digestion and relaxes you mentally. It also has a calming effect.
Fennel:It prevents the formation of gas in your intestines, relaxes the digestive system and also significantly helps your digestion.
Green Tea: Since the caffeine in green tea is less than black tea, you should choose green tea. Green tea, which regulates your blood circulation and protects against colds, also strengthens your immune system.
Linden: Linden strengthens your immune system and protects you against flu and colds. Since linden has an edema-resolving effect, it minimizes the edema accumulated in your body without tiring your kidneys.
Ginger: It prevents possible nausea during pregnancy, reduces the feeling of bloating, that is, edema in the body, and corrects your indigestion.< br />
Rosehip: It is a plant very rich in vitamin C. It provides the body's general resistance during your illnesses. It also has anti-edema properties.
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