What’s Good for Swollen Feet and Ankles During Pregnancy?

Got cankles? The Spoiled Mama's Happy Legs Aloe Leg Gel will help soothe swollen ankles, feet and legs!

Have you checked out our online store lately? We have added new pregnancy skincare items, like our refreshing organic acne toner safe for pregnancy, and a staff favorite that always sells out, Rehab Serum for pregnancy hormonal acne!

In honor of Aloe Leg Gel, our bestselling summer treat, I'm focusing on an issue I know many expecting Mamas are asking: “What’s good for swollen feet and ankles?” Pregnancy sure does a number on your body, and it doesn't stop with the expanding belly, boobs and weight gain. During the third trimester, many first-time Mamas are surprised to experience swollen feet, ankles, and legs -- and even puffy hands and faces. But don't worry, Mama, this is all a part of the process. Here's more background on why it happens and how you can help cure swollen ankles and legs during pregnancy.

What causes legs and feet to swell?

Pregnancy swollen legs and feet, also known as edema, occurs when excess fluids collect in your tissues. This happens because: a) you retain more water, and b) your growing uterus adds pressure to your pelvic veins. This makes it harder for the blood to circulate through your legs, which causes the blood to pool in the tissue of your feet and ankles. The swelling is usually worse for Mamas who carry multiples, and the achiness can be more intense during nighttime and warm weather.

“So, what’s good for swollen feet and ankles?”

The good news is that there are many natural ways of treating leg edema. Here are some tips:

• Get off your feet. When it comes to reducing the pressure, attacking the problem lying down is the best solution! Your vena cava, the main vein that carries blood from your lower limbs back to the heart, is on the right side of your body, so make sure to lie on your left side. For extra relief, prop your feet up above the waist.
• Stretch! If you're sitting for long periods, stretch your legs and wiggle your toes. Even better, go on short walks and engage in light exercise.
• Drink plenty of water and avoid salty foods. Put away the chips and junk food, which are packed with sodium. Instead, aim for potassium-rich foods, like fruits and veggies, which can help reduce water retention. And as always, keep a bottle of water on hand.
• Pull out the sneakers. Retire your high heels momentarily and embrace comfortable shoes that will stretch with your feet. Running shoes made from breathable fabrics and supportive insoles will be your best bet.

Massage your legs.  Or better yet, have your partner do it for you! The Spoiled Mama's Aloe Leg Gel is designed to aid swollen feet and legs during pregnancy. The organic recipe includes calming aloe, spirulina and cucumbers rich with skin-soothing vitamins A and C. Just refrigerate the bottle and liberally massage onto puffy legs and feet to help blood circulate. Elevate your legs for 15 minutes, hop in the shower and feel 100% more refreshed!

 Try maternity support hose. They're not the cutest things in the world, but some women swear compression hose can help reduce swelling and potentially prevent future varicose veins. They come in knee-highs and thigh-highs, but my favorites are the maternity support leggings.

Now it's your turn! Have you tried any of these methods? Do you have your own swollen feet treatment?