Varicose Veins

Varicose veins are superficial blood vessels that become weakened, stretched and swollen. Varicose veins are quite common in pregnancy and can happen in the legs, or less commonly in the internal genitalia/vagina. Hemorrhoids are also a type of varicose veins.

While not usually serious, varicose veins can be uncomfortable, causing itchiness, discomfort, swollen feet and ankles, and muscle cramps. It's a good idea to raise your legs above the level of your heart to help reduce the swelling in your feet and ankles.

Show your varicose veins to your health care provider to keep an eye on them.
For more information about varicose veins, treatment, and steps that you can take to help prevent or lessen the effects of varicose veins during pregnancy please see the links below.

• HealthLinkBC - Varicose Veins
• Mayo Clinic - Varicose Veins and Pregnancy: tips to prevent or lessen their effects
• National Health Service (UK) – common health problems in pregnancy