Why do I get swollen feet during pregnancy?

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Swollen feet and ankles in pregnancy are expected physiology: your body holds substantially more fluid, and the growing uterus presses on the pelvic veins, slowing blood return from the legs - gravity does the rest. The NHS lists swollen ankles, feet, and fingers among the common pregnancy complaints, worst at the end of the day, in heat, and after long standing. Swelling that is gradual, symmetrical, and eases overnight or with elevation is the normal kind.

Managing it: put your feet up above hip level when you can, lie on your left side to unload the big vein, keep moving - ankle circles and calf pumps keep the muscle pump working - hydrate, go easy on salt-heavy snacks, and wear supportive shoes; compression socks genuinely help if you are on your feet all day. Avoid standing still for long stretches.

The warning pattern to know by heart: sudden swelling - especially of the face and hands rather than feet alone - with a severe headache, vision changes like blurring or flashing lights, or pain under the right ribs can signal preeclampsia and needs a same-day call to your maternity unit. Swelling in only one leg, especially with pain, warmth, or redness, suggests a clot - also a same-day call. Normal pregnancy swelling is gradual, both-sided, and better by morning; anything sudden, one-sided, or with those companions is not.

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Why do I get swollen feet during pregnancy?

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