During pregnancy, many expectant mothers may feel overwhelmed by the various changes happening to their bodies. One of the most common and distressing symptoms is swelling, especially in the legs and feet. But why does swelling occur during pregnancy? And what methods can be used to relieve it?
Causes of Swelling During Pregnancy
1. Increased blood volume
After pregnancy, blood volume gradually increases, reaching its peak at 34 weeks, and remains at this level until two weeks after delivery when it returns to pre-pregnancy levels.
Blood volume can increase by about 40% compared to non-pregnant levels, so with the increase in blood volume, interstitial fluid will also increase.
2. Low plasma osmotic pressure
Due to the increase in blood, the increase in plasma is greater than that of blood cells, resulting in a relative dilution of the blood components. This leads to a lower concentration of plasma albumin compared to non-pregnant levels.
Plasma albumin is the main component responsible for maintaining plasma osmotic pressure. During pregnancy, plasma osmotic pressure is lower than non-pregnant levels, making it easier for fluid in the blood to penetrate into the interstitial fluid, causing swelling in the lower extremities.
3. Enlarged uterus
During pregnancy, the uterus enlarges, increasing pressure in the pelvic area. This can affect blood flow in the lower extremities and is an important factor in lower extremity swelling.
If swelling during pregnancy is relieved after rest or sleep, it is considered physiological and mild swelling is normal and not a cause for concern.
Methods to Reduce Swelling During Pregnancy
1. Get enough rest
The best way to reduce swelling is to rest. Research has shown that resting reduces the burden on the heart, liver, kidneys, and other organs, leading to a natural reduction or disappearance of swelling.
2. Keep warm
Swelling is the accumulation of fluids. To reduce swelling, it is important to ensure good blood circulation and smooth breathing. In addition to taking care of oneself, it is also important to keep warm.
3. Follow a low-salt diet
During pregnancy, the body's ability to regulate salt and water decreases, so it is important to control salt intake in daily life, with a daily intake of less than 10g.
4. Elevate the legs
It is recommended for pregnant women to elevate their legs for 15-20 minutes before sleep (or during a nap). This can accelerate blood flow back to the heart and reduce venous pressure, not only relieving swelling during pregnancy but also preventing the occurrence of conditions such as varicose veins in the lower extremities.
5. Sleep on the left side
Pregnant women can sleep on their left side to avoid compression of the lower extremity veins and reduce resistance to blood flow. This can also reduce pressure on the heart.
Dietary Remedies for Relieving Swelling During Pregnancy
1. Carp soup
Ingredients: 500g carp, 15g white atractylodes, 15g white peony root, 12g poria cocos, 6g tangerine peel, 6g ginger.
Preparation: Boil the four medicinal ingredients, then add ginger and cook the cleaned carp in the medicinal liquid. Eat the fish and drink the soup.
Effects: It helps invigorate the spleen, promote diuresis, and regulate qi and the middle burner.
2. Black fish and winter melon soup
Ingredients: 1 large black fish (about 500g), 500g winter melon, seasoning as desired.
Preparation: Clean the black fish, cut the winter melon into pieces, put them together in a clay pot, and cook until soft. Add some scallions and garlic, but no salt. Eat the fish and drink the soup after it is cooked.
Effects: It helps warm the kidneys, promote diuresis, and ensure a healthy pregnancy. It is suitable for pregnant women with kidney yang deficiency and swelling.
3. Red bean and Chinese yam porridge
Ingredients: 50g red beans, 50g fresh Chinese yam, a little sugar.
Preparation: Cook the red beans until they are 80% done, then add the fresh Chinese yam. When fully cooked, add a little sugar.
Effects: It helps invigorate the spleen, clear heat, and promote diuresis. It is beneficial for pregnant women with dampness accumulation due to spleen deficiency, as well as loose stools and reduced urine output.
