Swollen Feet During Pregnancy

Many women notice fuller feet once pregnancy starts. Extra fluid helps the placenta and uterus, but some of that fluid settles in the lower legs. Your feet may feel tight or heavy, especially later in the day or during summer months when the weather is hot.

Most swelling though, is a normal part of pregnancy. But some symptoms do require a call to your provider. Learn why swelling shows up, how to reduce it and when it’s important to get care.

Key Takeaways: Swollen Feet In Pregnancy

• The body holds more fluid during pregnancy, which often shows up in the feet and ankles.
• Heat, long hours upright and the later months of pregnancy place more pressure on the lower legs.
• Simple steps at home can lower discomfort.
• Sudden swelling in the hands or face may signal a serious issue.
• A provider visit is vital when swelling changes fast or feels unusual.

Why Feet Swell During Pregnancy

The body adds fluid to support the baby and protect the uterus. Gravity pulls part of this fluid toward the legs, so your feet often show the first and clearest signs of swelling.

Fluid volume and gravity

Blood volume rises during pregnancy to support both the parent and the baby. Gravity directs part of this fluid downward. When movement or elevation is limited, fluid pools in the feet and leaves shoes tight or skin puffy.

Heat, posture and daily strain

Warm days cause blood vessels near the skin to widen and allow more fluid into the tissues. Long stretches of being upright also add pressure to the lower legs. Tight socks or narrow shoes trap fluid and raise discomfort.

According to the National Health Services , swelling in the feet, ankles or fingers often looks worse later in the day and may look worse in hot weather. Most cases clear up on their own, but sudden swelling in the face, hands or feet can be a serious problem that needs a quick check by a provider.

Hormone shifts

Relaxin, a pregnancy hormone, softens joints and ligaments to help the pelvis open for birth. It also softens the ligaments in the feet, which may allow the bones to spread a bit. Many people notice a small increase in shoe size after pregnancy due to this structural shift.

The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists notes that pregnancy affects many body systems, including changes in blood volume, joint flexibility and circulation, all of which can influence how the feet feel.

Ways To Lower Foot And Ankle Swelling

Small changes throughout the day can ease pressure and improve comfort. These tips offer simple relief at home:

Tip 1: Raise your feet. Place your feet above heart level for a few minutes at a time. A sofa, bed or footstool works well. This position moves fluid upward and often creates fast relief.

Tip 2: Take short movement breaks. A few steps across the room help your calf muscles push fluid toward the heart. Even slow steps support healthy blood flow.

Tip 3: Use support wear. Full-length support stockings provide gentle pressure along the legs. This pressure guides fluid upward. Avoid socks with tight bands that hold fluid near the ankles.

Tip 4: Drink enough water. Adequate water helps the kidneys clear sodium, which lowers fluid buildup. Clear or pale urine often means you’re getting enough hydration.

Tip 5: Choose comfortable footwear. Wide shoes with soft material reduce pressure and give your feet more space. A gentle foot or ankle massage from a partner can also ease tension.

Tip 6: Spend time in a pool. Water pressure supports the legs and pushes fluid toward the upper body. Many people notice relief after even a short pool session.

Will My Feet Go Back To Their Usual Size After Pregnancy?

Most swelling fades a few days after birth as the body clears extra fluid. Hormone levels settle and circulation improves. Some people notice a small, permanent increase in shoe size because relaxin softens the ligaments in the feet and allowing the foot bones to spread slightly. This shift is normal and not harmful.

Can swollen feet be a sign that something is wrong?

Most foot swelling is not a sign of a problem. But some symptoms need quick care. A history of high blood pressure raises the chance of complications during pregnancy, and even people with normal blood pressure can develop hypertension. The National Heart, Lung, and Blood  Institute notes that hypertensive heart disease is the most common cardiovascular issue in pregnancy and, if untreated, can become life-threatening.

Signs of preeclampsia

Preeclampsia is a form of high blood pressure during pregnancy. It can cause serious complications without early care. Research in the Journal of the American Heart Association shows that Black and Asian women of childbearing age face a higher risk of uncontrolled high blood pressure, which raises the chance of heart-related issues during pregnancy.

Let your provider know right away if you notice:

• Sudden swelling in your feet, hands or face
• A strong or persistent headache
• Vision changes such as flashes, spots or blurring
• Pain high in the belly
• Fast onset of symptoms with no clear reason

What not to do

Do not use diuretics unless your provider tells you it’s OK. Diuretics can cause harm during pregnancy, except when your provider uses them to treat preeclampsia.

When To See Your Provider

Reach out to your provider when swelling feels unusual, shows up fast or comes with other symptoms such as a headache or vision changes. If you experience swelling that comes on quickly in the hands, face or both feet, call your Franciscan Health provider. Our team will check your symptoms, answer your questions and guide you toward the safest next steps.