Natural Remedies for Varicose Veins in Pregnancy
Why do Varicose Veins occur in Pregnancy?
During pregnancy a woman’s blood volume increases by up to 30-40% and the composition and circulation of the blood also alters. This helps to protect the mother and is important for fetal development. The increase in blood volume and changes in blood does carry a slight increased risk of clotting disorders but for most low-risk pregnancies the major issue is usually the development of varicose veins.
Varicose veins in pregnancy occur mainly in the legs but can also be found in the vulva and anus (haemorrhoids). There are several reasons why they can occur:
Hormone Changes Progesterone makes the veins more relaxed and with the blood being more concentrated the flow of blood through the veins is slower.
Weight of the Baby and Lack of Movement The weight of the baby may put pressure on the veins in the pelvis. If the mother spends a lot of her time sitting down or standing still the lack of movement can create stasis in the veins in the legs.
Valvular Insufficency In order for blood to pump up the body there are valves within the veins that open and close. If the valves in the lower part of the leg are unable to work properly it causes back flow and creates varicose veins.
Weakness of the venous walls If there is a family history of varicose veins the mother may be more prone to weakness of the walls of the veins. When there is weakness the veins expand and cause varicosities (varicose veins)
Self Care for Varicose Veins
If you start to see varicose veins forming during your pregnancy, or you know there is a herediatry history of varicose veins in your family these are some self-care precautions you can take:
Avoid sitting or standing in the same position for long periods of time. Make sure you take breaks from what you’re doing, move around and change your position.
Avoid wearing high heels. It is better to wear lower-heel or flat shoes as this works your calf muscles, helping to have healthy circulation.
Exercise regularly. Initially there is no reason to stop your normal exercise routine. As your pregnancy progresses you may wish to talk to your primary health care provider about safe exercise options. But, also listen to what your body needs. Pregnancy is a great time to begin honing your intuition on what you need.
Wear maternity support hosiery. These put pressure on the legs, stimulating blood flow up the leg towards the heart. However, avoid wearing tight clothing on the lower extremeties as they can cut off circulation
Avoid crossing your legs while sitting.
Elevate your legs periodically to improve circulation.
Sleep on your left side. This will help relieve pressure on the inferior vena cava.
Reduce your intake of salty foods and beverages to minimise swelling of the veins.
Drink plenty of water and eat enough fiber to prevent constipation.
Hydrotherapy and foot baths can be beneficial.
Bodywork to Help Varicose Veins
Many women who develop varicose veins in pregnancy also develop oedema. Body therapies such as massage and Shiatsu can help support the flow of energy, blood and lymph to improve both of these conditions.
Most oedema and varicose veins begin as the weight of the baby puts more pressure down into the pelvis so that the veins and lymph nodes become blocked. Lying on the back becomes uncomfortable for many women from the 2nd trimester onwards which makes Shiatsu Massage such a benefical therapy as the treatment is done with the mother lying on the side supported by cushions and bolsters.
Shiatsu Massage is a Japanese body therapy that works with the energy rivers and acupressure points. For mothers with varicose veins and oedema the top leg is elevated over the therapists leg allowing for pumping of the inguinal nodes to help lymph flow. Gentle massage of the leg plus light pressure on the energy rivers that flow through the leg helps create better better circulation by supporting venous return from the lower extremeties and supporting the smooth muscle so that venous function is normalised However, no pressure is ever put on the varicose veins. Cool cloths may be used over the affected area. Clients are often recommended to use a foot bath or hydrotherapy.
If you work regularly with a massage or shiatsu massage therapist throughout your pregnancy they can help you monitor your veins and will refer you to contact your primary health care provider immediately if the veins become swollen, warm, tender, or red, if they bleed, if you have a rash on your leg or ankle, or if the skin on leg changes color or thickens.
Will Varicose Veins Improve After Pregnancy?
Yes, they generally do improve after giving birth. However, it depends on the severity of the condition during pregnancy and whether there is a history of varicose veins in the family. Varicose vein surgery is not recommend during pregnancy so you can always talk to your GP post pregnancy about surgery.
How can I book a Shiatsu Massage for my Varicose Veins or Oedema?
If you are experiencing varicose veins or oedma during your pregnancy you can book a Shiatsu with Marian by using the Booking & Contacts page on the Soul Body Shiatsu Website or contacting Marian on 0403550695 or at soulbodyshiatsu@gmail.com.