Varicose Veins During Pregnancy: When to Worry and What You Can Do
Pregnancy and Varicose Veins: What’s Normal—and What’s Not?
Pregnancy is a time of profound change—and your vascular system is no exception. While many women develop varicose veins during pregnancy, few realize when these visible, bulging veins could signal a bigger issue. At Hill Vascular & Vein Center in Campbell, we help expectant and postpartum mothers understand the difference between cosmetic concerns and vascular conditions that need attention.
Here’s what you need to know.
Why Do Varicose Veins Happen During Pregnancy?
During pregnancy, your body undergoes major circulatory changes to support your growing baby. These changes include:
- Increased blood volume
- Hormonal shifts (especially progesterone) that relax vein walls
- Uterine pressure on veins in the pelvis and lower body
These factors often lead to blood pooling in the lower extremities, causing varicose veins to form—especially in the legs, vulva, and rectal area (hemorrhoids).
Common Signs of Pregnancy-Related Varicose Veins
- Bulging, rope-like veins in the legs or thighs
- Aching or heaviness in the legs (especially after standing)
- Itching or skin irritation around affected veins
- Swelling in the ankles or calves
- Blue, purple, or red discoloration under the skin
Many of these symptoms subside after delivery, but for some women, they persist—or worsen.
When to Worry: Warning Signs You Shouldn’t Ignore
While most varicose veins are harmless, you should seek medical evaluation if you experience:
Painful, hardened veins
Could indicate phlebitis (inflammation of the vein) or superficial vein thrombosis—a condition requiring monitoring.
Sudden swelling in one leg
This may be a sign of deep vein thrombosis (DVT)—a dangerous blood clot that can travel to the lungs.
Skin changes near your ankles
Discoloration, thickening, or ulceration may suggest chronic venous insufficiency, a long-term condition needing medical treatment.
Bleeding from a varicose vein
Enlarged veins close to the skin can rupture, leading to significant bleeding. This is a medical emergency.
If you are pregnant or recently delivered and experiencing any of these symptoms, contact your vascular specialist immediately.
Can Varicose Veins Be Treated During Pregnancy?
In most cases, conservative management is recommended during pregnancy. Treatments may include:
- Compression stockings to support circulation
- Leg elevation to reduce swelling
- Low-impact exercise (e.g., walking, prenatal yoga)
- Hydration and fiber to avoid constipation and hemorrhoids
Minimally invasive treatments such as sclerotherapy or endovenous ablation are generally postponed until after delivery and breastfeeding, depending on your situation.
Postpartum Varicose Veins: Will They Go Away?
For many women, varicose veins improve within 3–4 months postpartum as hormone levels normalize and blood volume decreases. However, if they persist—or worsen with future pregnancies—it’s important to follow up with a vascular specialist.
At Hill Vascular, we offer:
- Comprehensive vascular ultrasound evaluations
- Personalized vein care plans
- Outpatient treatment options with little to no downtime
Trust Hill Vascular & Vein Center for Women’s Vascular Health
Our team understands that every pregnancy is unique. We take a compassionate, individualized approach to treating varicose veins and other vein conditions before, during, and after pregnancy.
If you’re worried about varicose veins—or want to get ahead of potential issues before your next pregnancy—schedule a consultation today. We’re here to help you look, feel, and move your best.
Serving patients across San Jose, Campbell, Cupertino, Santa Clara, Los Gatos and the Greater South Bay
Recent Comments