What You Need to Know About Pregnancy and Varicose Veins

One of my Winchester, Virginia patients came in eight weeks after delivering her fourth child. She had undergone the Venefit Procedure a few years ago and had wonderful results with beautiful legs. Since the second trimester of this pregnancy, she'd noted new lower leg varicose veins with symptoms of aching and tenderness.

She highlights one of the known predisposing factors to the development of varicose veins - multiple pregnancies. The elevated estrogen and progesterone during gestation leads to vein walls becoming relaxed and engorged. This can reduce postpartum, but often the vein damage persists with some degree of discomfort after delivery.

Women should be aware that the risk of blood clot increases during pregnancy, especially in those with pre-existing varicose veins. Leg tenderness or swelling should not be ignored and an ultrasound is very helpful is assessing the venous system. Support hose can also help reduce the impact of venous insufficiency.

Naturally, we do not intervene during the pregnancy due to potential risks; however, one of the courtesies that we offer at Capitol Vein & Laser is a free quick evaluation of pregnant women with venous disease. Either Dr. Rosenberg or Dr. McNeill can provide this to you at the Maryland, West Virginia or Virginia vein care offices.