How to Decrease Edema Naturally during Pregnancy?

Understanding Edema during Pregnancy

Edema on pregnancy is very common. Swelling is usually experienced on lower extremities such as feet. This is caused by extra blood and fluid circulated through the body during pregnancy. The pelvic veins are pressured by the growing uterus inside a woman’s womb, thus causing fluid and blood pool.

This results to inflammation of the feet and other parts of the body.

However, severe edema experienced on face, hands, feet and ankles are uncommon. If a mother has sudden inflammation on these areas, it is recommended that she consults a doctor immediately as these are not associated with the usual edema experienced during pregnancy. These might be signs of preeclampsia, a serious pregnancy condition that can harm both the mother and the baby.

Edema on foot and ankles are noticeable on the fifth month of pregnancy which becomes severe during the third trimester.

How to Decrease Edema during Pregnancy

Though there are no known treatments for pregnancy-induced edema because this is naturally happening during pregnancy, still there are some things women can do to prevent this from occurring.

Following are some easy steps to manage edema.

• Eat a well-balanced diet. Consume more vegetables and fruits as these are known to help prevent swollen feet, ankles, hands and face.
• Maintain the body hydrated by drinking plenty of water. This helps in flushing down the excess water in the body hence preventing fluid retention which causes the inflammation.
• Consult a doctor regularly. It is important to be knowledgeable on the things one can do in order to prevent having edema.
• Avoid any activity or food that will contribute to swelling.

Decreasing Edema Naturally

Edema on pregnancy can be minimized or avoided by following the simple tips mentioned below.

• Eat foods that are rich in potassium such as bananas.
• Avoid too much intake of caffeine and alcoholic drinks. These can cause dehydration.
• Elevate legs to promote circulation.
• Avoid sitting or standing for a long period of time.
• Never cross legs when sitting.
• Decrease consumption of salty food like olives and salted nuts as these promote water retention.
• Drink ample amount of water as this keeps the body hydrated.
• Apply cold compress to affected areas.
• Do not wear high-heeled or tight-fitting footwear because these constrict circulation.
• Exercise regularly promotes good blood circulation. Simple walking and swimming help much in preventing the occurrence of edema on pregnant mothers. Consult a doctor to know some pregnancy exercises that guarantee safety to the mother and baby.