Swelling in Pregnancy
Common during months:
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3
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4
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5
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6
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8
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Swelling is a normal part of pregnancy. Your circulatory system is relaxed and sluggish, which can contribute to fluid retention. Swelling is also a healthy way your body helps support the extra blood volume in the week or two before you give birth.
Some Women Have Tried...
- Drink plenty of water. Dehydration will not reduce swelling, since swelling comes from excess water in your tissues, not your blood.
- Take frequent rest periods with your feet raised to the level of your hips when you have to be on your feet for long amounts of time.
- Do not wear clothing that is restrictive.
- Sit in the cross-legged position whenever possible, and do pelvic rocking daily to promote good circulation.
- Try swimming or water aerobics daily. The pressure of the water helps to improve return circulation reducing swelling.
- Try upward stroking massage with oils including lavender, geranium or rosemary to lessen swelling.
- Try soaking your feet in warm water with two drops each of bensoin, rose and orange oils. Or add the essential oils to a tablespoon of a base oil to use for a foot massage.
- Try using lymphatic massage techniques to drain the lymph system in the legs.
- Be sure you are exercising daily. Exercise such as walking helps maintain proper blood and lymph circulation to move fluids out of your legs.
What would you like next?Learn comfort techniques for labor. Explore the process of labor. Find products to help you enjoy pregnancy and prepare to give birth.. Read research about birth options. Find natural birth resources in your area. |
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