Varicose veins in pregnant women

Varicose veins in women develop especially during pregnancy. A significant portion of these heirs are 3-6. disappears in months

Varicose veins are the enlargement of our veins in the leg that are not normally seen. Generally, 25-30% of women have varicose veins.

In general, varicose veins of 15-20% develop during pregnancy. These occur in the first 3 months of pregnancy at the rate of 70-80%, most often in the first 2-3 weeks.

The most important reason why it is seen more frequently in the first months or weeks of pregnancy is the high level of hormones released during this period. The hormone that contributes to the development of varicose veins from these hormones is the hormone (progesterone), which relaxes the muscles of the uterus. This hormone shows the same effect on the vein wall and loosens the muscles in the vein wall and causes dilation in the vein. Accordingly, valves that prevent blood from escaping inside the veins are damaged. The most important mechanism that leads to the development of varicose veins is that the broken valves reclaim the blood.
In addition to the hormones seen in the first months of pregnancy, the increase in blood volume in the following months, the increase of blood flow in the growing uterus region, the venous coming from both legs merge into the abdomen and the pressure of the baby on the main vein carrying blood to the heart also contributes to the development of varicose veins. Although all these factors apply to all pregnant women, they suggest that it is important in genetic factors in the development of varicose veins in everyone.

Varicose veins can manifest themselves in various ways during pregnancy. These are most often in a localized area in the calves and areas behind the knees, as well as in the form of capillaries that cover the entire leg. A significant part of these varicose veins disappear within 1 month following birth. However, permanent defects may develop in the valves, especially in those who have given birth. Accordingly, varicose veins develop in the following years.

In order to prevent varicose veins in pregnant women;

• Standing should not be fixed for a long time,
• Regular walking and exercising should be done,
• Weight gain should be avoided,
• During the day, the legs should be rested frequently. While sleeping, turning the left side of the uterus to prevent the uterus from squeezing the vein. A pillow should be placed under the leg to raise.
• In order to prevent the blood from sinking in the leg during the day, light pressure varicose stockings under the knee should be worn.
• Special attention should be given to nutrition; To prevent constipation, plenty of fluids should be taken and foods with pulp should be consumed.

ANTALYA VARICOSE VEINS/Dr.İlhan Gölbaşı