Pregnancy Swelling (Edema): What Causes It & How to Get Relief

Many pregnant women are surprised the first time they look down and notice their feet looking puffier than usual. Sometimes it’s just the ankles. Sometimes the fingers feel tight. And sometimes shoes that fit perfectly last month suddenly feel impossible to wear.

This swelling, known as edema, is one of the most common changes during pregnancy. Even though it is usually harmless, it can still feel uncomfortable and raise understandable questions. Why is it happening? Is this normal? When should you be concerned?

As a vascular specialist and someone who regularly treats women with circulation-related concerns, I see this often. Most pregnancy-related swelling has simple explanations and improves with routine care. 

But knowing the difference between normal swelling and warning signs can help you stay safe, comfortable, and confident throughout your pregnancy.

Let’s break it down in the simplest, most reassuring way possible.

What Causes Swelling of the Feet During Pregnancy?

Edema simply means fluid buildup under the skin. During pregnancy, this usually shows up in the feet, ankles, and sometimes the lower legs.
Most women notice swelling from the second trimester onward, and it often increases as months pass and the baby grows.

You might see:

• Puffiness around the ankles
• Difficulty fitting into shoes by late afternoon
• Imprints of socks or sandals on the skin
• Heaviness or tightness in the legs

For the majority of women, this type of edema is normal. It tends to worsen toward the end of the day and improve overnight.

Normal swelling is symmetrical, meaning both feet and both ankles swell in a similar way. It usually gets worse:

• After standing or sitting for too long
• In hot or humid weather
• Toward the third trimester

This is called physiological swelling, and it’s expected.

However, swelling is not considered normal if:

• Only one leg is swollen
• The swelling is sudden
• You have pain, redness, or warmth
• Your face or hands suddenly swell
• You develop severe headaches or vision problems

These symptoms may indicate conditions like deep vein thrombosis (DVT) or preeclampsia, both of which require immediate medical attention.

While leg and ankle swelling are the most common, some women also notice puffiness in their hands or fingers. Rings may feel tight, and gripping objects may feel slightly uncomfortable.

Hand swelling is usually harmless, but sudden swelling, especially in the face or hands, should not be ignored. It can be a sign of high blood pressure or preeclampsia, so it’s important to mention it to your doctor.

Many women assume the swelling will disappear immediately after delivery, but postpartum edema is also very common.
Your body needs time to eliminate the extra fluid it held during pregnancy. Hormonal changes, IV fluids during labor, and the natural recovery process can all cause continued swelling for a few days or even a couple of weeks.

Postpartum swelling is usually temporary and improves with rest, hydration, and movement. However, if swelling is severe, persistent, or accompanied by chest pain, shortness of breath, or leg pain, seek medical care immediately.

Most pregnant women can manage swelling comfortably at home with a few simple habits.

Stay active

Gentle walking, stretching, and ankle rotations improve circulation.

Keep your feet elevated

Raise your legs whenever possible so gravity helps move the fluid.

Drink enough water

It may feel counterintuitive, but hydration reduces fluid retention.

Avoid long hours of standing or sitting

Take breaks to move around or shift your position.

Wear comfortable shoes

Avoid tight straps and high heels.

Use compression stockings if recommended

These can significantly reduce swelling, especially if you’re on your feet all day.

Sleep on your left side

This position improves blood flow to your heart and reduces pressure on the main vein returning blood from your lower body.

Reduce salt intake

Too much sodium can worsen water retention.

These steps usually bring noticeable relief within days.

You should seek medical advice if you notice:

• Swelling that appears suddenly
• Swelling only in one leg
• Pain, redness, or warmth in the leg
• Severe or worsening swelling
• Swollen face or puffy hands
• Severe headaches or vision changes
• Rapid weight gain

These may indicate high blood pressure disorders or a blood clot, which requires urgent care.

Pregnancy swelling is uncomfortable but manageable in most cases. The key is paying attention to what feels normal for your body and reporting what does not. 

Early detection of abnormal signs helps protect both you and your baby. Never hesitate to ask questions or raise concerns with your doctor. It’s always better to be safe.

Swelling during pregnancy is incredibly common and, in most cases, simply a result of your body working hard to support your growing baby. Understanding why it happens and how to manage it can make your pregnancy journey far more comfortable. 

With simple care strategies and awareness of warning signs, you can stay safe, reduce discomfort, and focus on enjoying this special phase of life.

Frequently Asked Questions