Swollen feet during pregnancy are a common source of discomfort for many women. It can be caused by a variety of factors including hormonal changes, increase in blood volume, fluid retention, and more. Many expectant mothers seek relief through natural remedies, and one promising option to explore is the use of essential oils for swollen feet during pregnancy.
However, the first thing to do when facing the issue of swollen feet during pregnancy is to see a doctor. They will guide you on what to do.
There are ways to manage swollen feet and the discomfort that comes with them. Using essential oils is one of these ways. In this article, we will look at the causes of swollen feet during pregnancy, ways to reduce swollen feet, and essential oils for swollen feet during pregnancy
Causes of Swollen Feet During Pregnancy
As stated earlier, there are many reasons why you may have swollen feet during pregnancy. They include:
1. Increased Blood Volume
A significant increase in blood volume is one of the most common reasons for swollen feet during pregnancy. The body changes to support the growing fetus and an increased blood volume is one of these changes which leads to fluid retention. The increase in blood volume adds pressure to the blood vessels and results in fluid retention in the lower body parts.
2. Hormonal Changes
The hormones released by the body during pregnancy help to facilitate its adaptation to the growing baby. Hormones like progesterone cause the blood vessels to relax and expand to allow adequate blood supply to the fetus. This leads to fluid buildup in the tissues including the feet and ankles.
3. Pressure on Blood Vessels
The growth of the baby means an expansion of the uterus and this also puts pressure on the blood vessels in the pelvis. This pressure can disrupt the usual return of blood from the legs to the heart resulting in swelling in the feet. This weight of the uterus compresses the major blood vessels and affects the way blood circulates in the lower part of the body.
4. Gravity
Gravity also affects the feet and can cause swollen feet during pregnancy. As the uterus places pressure on the lower body parts and the pumping of blood back up to the heart becomes more difficult, gravity adds an extra layer to this inability to pump blood back up freely. This can lead to fluid accumulation in the ankles and feet.
5. Sodium Retention
When you consume diets with high levels of sodium, it can contribute to fluid retention worsening the original swelling that could arise due to hormonal or other factors. Also, during pregnancy, women are more sensitive to sodium intake which can lead to edema. Usually, reducing salt intake can help in managing this.
6. Preeclampsia
Preeclampsia is a condition that can set in during pregnancy and can be characterized by excessive swelling in the feet and ankles. This can be caused by high blood pressure, protein in the urine, and swelling. It should be noted that this condition can be life-threatening if left untreated.
7. Varicose Veins
Swollen, twisted veins that appear in the legs during pregnancy are referred to as varicose veins. They often cause discomfort and can contribute to swollen feet. Hormonal changes and increased pressure on the blood vessels make pregnant women more susceptible to developing varicose veins.
8. Dehydration
When the body does not have enough of the water that it needs, it can lead to swollen feet during pregnancy. This is because the body tends to retain more water as a form of protective mechanism. Drinking enough water daily can help to maintain fluid balance in the body.
9. Prolonged Standing or Sitting
Staying in standing or sitting positions for extended periods can lead to fluid pulling in the lower body parts. The muscles in the legs serve as pumps that facilitate blood circulation and when they are not actively engaged, it becomes easy for fluid to build up in the feet and ankles.
10. Heat and Humidity
Hot and humid weather can make swelling worse during pregnancy. The heat makes the blood vessels dilate and this leads to fluid retention. Staying in well-ventilated places during hot periods can minimize these effects.
Read Also: Food Not Digesting During Early Pregnancy – What To Do
How Can a Pregnant Woman Reduce Swollen Feet?
There are many ways pregnant women can reduce swollen feet and alleviate the discomfort that comes with them. Some of these include:
1. Elevate Your Feet
Keeping the feet up or elevated whenever possible can help to reduce swelling. When sitting or lying down, try to keep your feet at your heart level or above it to promote the drainage of excess fluid.
2. Stay Active
Simple or gentle exercises such as walking or swimming can help to promote better circulation. These activities keep the leg muscles active hence aiding the movement of blood and fluids back to the heart.
3. Wear Comfortable Shoes
Wearing comfy shoes that offer support can also be helpful. Avoid wearing heels or shoes that are too tight as this can cause more discomfort and worsen the swelling.
4. Compression Stockings
Compression stockings add gentle pressure on the legs and this helps to promote blood flow and reduce fluid buildup.
5. Reduce Sodium Intake
Reducing your salt intake can also help reduce fluid retention. Add salt sparingly to your meals when preparing them and ensure to read food labels before buying to avoid high-sodium processed foods.
6. Hydrate Adequately
Ensure to drink enough water throughout the day to stay hydrated as dehydration can lead to increased fluid retention.
7. Avoid Prolonged Sitting or Standing
Prolonged sitting or standing causes fluids to accumulate in the feet and ankles so try to take breaks regularly to reduce such occurrences.
8. Cool Compresses
Placing cool compresses in the swollen areas can offer some relief. While doing this, ensure you are not using ice directly on your skin as it can cause cold injury.
9. Massage
Gentle foot and leg massages can help stimulate blood circulation and reduce swelling. The upward strokes towards the heart can be quite effective.
What Essential Oils Are Good For Swollen Feet During Pregnancy?
Essential oils are known for their natural healing and soothing properties. Below are some of the essential oils good for swollen feet during pregnancy:
1. Lavender Oil
This oil has calming and anti-inflammatory properties. It can help reduce the swelling in your feet and offer relief. To use this, dilute a few drops in a carrier oil and massage your feet gently.
2. Peppermint Oil
Peppermint oil has a fine cooling sensation when used on swollen feet. It can provide instant relief. Mix a few drops of peppermint oil with a carrier oil and apply it to your feet. The cooling effect will ease the discomfort.
3. Frankincense Oil
This oil has anti-inflammatory properties that not only ease swelling but also soothe discomfort. Dilute it in a carrier oil and massage your feet or add a few drops to your bathwater for a soak.
4. Eucalyptus Oil
Eucalyptus oil has potent anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties. It is effective against swelling and can offer relief from the pain in your feet. Mix a few drops with a carrier oil and massage your feet or add it to a foot soak.
5. Chamomile Oil
Chamomile oil, especially the Roman chamomile, has anti-inflammatory and soothing properties. It can help relax your muscles and soothe the swelling. Dilute it in a carrier oil and massage your feet or add a few drops to your bath.
6. Cypress Oil
This oil is famous for its vasoconstrictor properties, which can help improve circulation and reduce swelling. Mix it with a carrier oil and massage it into your feet or add it to a foot soak for soothing relief.
7. Ginger Oil
Ginger oil has anti-inflammatory properties which can be effective against the swelling in your feet. It also provides a warming sensation, which can be soothing. Dilute a few drops in a carrier oil and massage your feet.
8. Lemon Oil
Lemon oil has refreshing and detoxifying properties. It can help reduce swelling by promoting lymphatic drainage. Dilute a few drops in a carrier oil and gently massage your feet. The citrus scent can also uplift your mood and relieve nausea.
9. Juniper Berry Oil
Juniper berry oil has diuretic properties, which can help reduce the discomfort from your swollen feet. It can be added to a foot soak for quick effects.
10. Geranium Oil
Geranium oil has anti-inflammatory properties and this helps to reduce swelling in the feet. It’s also known for its calming effects. Dilute it in a carrier oil and massage your feet or add it to your bathwater.
11. Sandalwood Oil
Sandalwood oil has anti-inflammatory and cooling properties. It can be very soothing for swollen and tired feet. Dilute a few drops in a carrier oil and gently massage your feet.
12. Ylang Ylang Oil
Ylang-ylang oil is a sweet floral oil that reduces inflammation and improves circulation. Dilute it in carrier oil and massage your feet, paying attention to the swollen areas.
13. Helichrysum Oil
Helichrysum oil is known for its skin-soothing and anti-inflammatory properties. It can help relieve discomfort in the feet. Dilute it in a carrier oil and gently massage your feet with it.
14. Marjoram Oil
Marjoram oil has muscle-relaxing and anti-inflammatory properties, making it useful for reducing swelling and soothing aching feet. Dilute a few drops in a carrier oil and massage your feet to get relief.
Read Also: Foods To Reduce Inflammation During Pregnancy
Conclusion on: Essential Oils For Swollen Feet During Pregnancy
When using essential oils during pregnancy, it’s important to perform patch tests before using any choice you make. Also, diluting in carrier oil as advised above helps to prevent skin irritation. Adding massage baths or foot soaks with these oils to your routine can help make the swollen feet more manageable all through the pregnancy journey.
