Medical Compression Stockings and Pregnancy

During the first pregnancy, varicose veins form in about half of pregnant women. This number increases even further in the second pregnancy.

The risk of venous occlusion also increases: compared to non-pregnant women, the risk of thrombosis is three to five times higher in pregnant women. This risk even increases up to six weeks after the birth of the child, particularly after a caesarean section or in cases of heavy blood loss. The causes of this higher fragility are hormonal changes and the increase in blood volume, which is about 20 percent, as early as the beginning of pregnancy.

Weight gain also increases pressure on the leg veins. The growing uterus and the baby's head also press on the veins in the pelvic area and hinder the return of blood to the heart. The bigger the belly gets, the heavier and less mobile the woman becomes. The calf muscle pump is thus activated less often. Even in women without any signs of venous weakness until then, this overload can have consequences. The legs swell and pregnancy varicose veins form, which often but not always disappear after the birth of the child. In women with additional risk factors, such as hereditary connective tissue weakness or overweight, a pregnancy is often the cause of permanent venous disease.

Prevent with compression

Wearing compression stockings helps prevent venous problems during pregnancy. Compression class 1 is sufficient for this. In case of pre-existing venous problems or heavy water retention, class 2 can also be used. The stockings should be worn from the third month of pregnancy and up to two months after childbirth or until the end of the breastfeeding period. If necessary, additional measures are taken in the hospital or maternity ward to prevent thrombosis. These include wearing special compression stockings, anti-thrombosis prophylaxis stockings, exercises and possibly anticoagulant treatment. In case of home birth or outpatient birth, you should discuss possible preventive measures with your doctor early enough. Swollen legs during pregnancy can also indicate Hellp syndrome or pre-eclampsia. Please discuss this with your doctor in any case.