Is it not a mystery“do feet grow during pregnancy?” It is common for the feet get larger while pregnant, although they do not technically “grow” as in children and adolescents. Pregnancy impacts the feet due to hormonal changes, weight gain, and changes in posture.During this time, the body produces the hormone relax in, which loosens the ligaments and joints in the pelvis to prepare for childbirth.The hormone causes the ligaments and joints in the feet to loosen and leads to the flattening of the arches and an increase in foot size. In addition, the extra weight and pressure of the growing baby can cause swelling in the feet and ankles, which makes them feel large. However, swollen feet changes vary from person to person,not all women experience changes in foot size during pregnancy. In most cases, changes in foot size or shape return to normal after childbirth, although it may take a few months for the body to adjust.
Ways that pregnancy affects the feet:
- Swelling of the feet and ankles increases especially in the third trimester due to increased blood volume and fluid retention in the body.
- Some women experience a change in shoe size during pregnancy, as the feet may flatten and lengthen due to the extra weight and pressure on the feet.
- Foot pain from extra weight and pressure of pregnancy, especially in the arches and heels. It may be due to the flattening of the foot’s arches, which causes the feet to roll inward or over pronate.
- Pregnancy increases the risk of developing varicose veins, which are enlarged and twisted veins that are painful and unsightly. Varicose veins can occur in the legs, feet, and even the vulva.
- Plantar fasciitis is the inflamed plantar fascia along the bottom of the foot that causes foot pain during pregnancy, especially in the heel.
Keep your feet healthy and comfortable throughout your pregnancy.Caring for your feet during pregnancy prevents discomfort and potential foot problems.
Here are tips for maintaining healthy feet while pregnant:
- Choose shoes that provide good support and cushioning. Avoid high heels, flip-flops, and shoes with narrow or pointed toes, as they can cause foot pain, swelling, and other issues.
- Keep your feet clean and dry daily. Dry them thoroughly, especially between the toes to prevent fungal infections such as athlete’s foot.
- Apply a moisturizer to help prevent dry, cracked feet.
- Exercise regularly by walking or swimming to improve circulation and reduce swelling in the feet and ankles.
- Elevate your feet above the level of your heart for 15-20 minutes a few times a day to reduce swelling.
- Wear compression stockings to help improve circulation and reduce swelling in the legs and feet.
- Gently massaging the feet and ankles can help reduce swelling.
- Stretching the calves and feet can help reduce foot pain and prevent plantar fasciitis.
- Monitor changes such as swelling, pain, or discoloration, and talk to your healthcare provider if you have concerns.
If you are dealing with swollen feet during or after pregnancy, feel free to contact our office to make an appointment with our podiatrist. Our foot and ankle doctor, Dr. Ejodamen Shobowale, will provide you with the care you need to keep you pain-free on your feet.
