Can I Get Varicose Vein Treatment While Pregnant?

Why do varicose veins appear or worsen during pregnancy?

Pregnancy affects the veins in several ways at once:

• Hormones relax and weaken vein walls, making them easier to stretch.
• Blood volume increases substantially, adding pressure inside the veins.
• Weight gain and the growing womb press on the veins that drain the legs.

The result can be new varicose veins, spider veins, swelling, heaviness and sometimes vulval veins. They often become more noticeable with each pregnancy. Read varicose veins in pregnancy .

Why is treatment usually postponed until after pregnancy?

There are three main reasons:

1. Many veins improve on their own after birth , as hormones, blood volume and pressure return to normal. Treating during pregnancy may treat veins that would have settled.
2. The medicines and procedures involved , including sclerosing agents and local anesthetics, are generally avoided in pregnancy unless clearly necessary.
3. Pregnancy itself raises clot risk , so doctors prefer to avoid elective vein procedures during this time.

If you have unusual symptoms or complications, your obstetrician and a vein specialist can discuss what is appropriate.

What can I do now to ease my symptoms?

Wear medical compression stockings

Medical compression stockings apply graduated pressure, tightest at the ankle, to help blood return to the heart. LEDAS lists them as a conservative treatment suitable for pregnant women. Ask your doctor or midwife which strength is right. See medical compression stockings .

Keep moving

Walk at a comfortable pace every day. Avoid standing or sitting still for long periods; flex your ankles often.

Raise your legs

Rest with your legs raised above heart level when you can. Lying on your left side in later pregnancy can also help blood flow.

Avoid heat

Saunas, hot baths and very hot showers widen veins. Bathe in the evening and keep water warm, not hot.

More ideas are on leg care during pregnancy .

When should I be assessed after delivery?

Give your body time to recover. Many doctors suggest waiting a few months after delivery, and after breastfeeding if relevant, before deciding on treatment. If veins are still troublesome, a duplex ultrasound shows whether reflux remains. If treatment is needed, LEDAS uses EVLT and sclerotherapy under local anesthesia, with same-day discharge. Discuss breastfeeding with the doctor before any treatment.

Can I be treated before my next pregnancy?

Yes. If you have symptomatic varicose veins and plan another pregnancy, treating them first can make pregnancy more comfortable. New veins can still develop, so follow-up matters.

When is it urgent?

Pregnancy and the weeks after birth carry a higher risk of blood clots. Seek emergency care immediately if one leg becomes suddenly swollen, painful, warm or red, or if you have sudden breathlessness, chest pain or coughing blood. A red, hard, tender vein also needs prompt medical review. See DVT and varicose veins .

Before, during and after pregnancy

Varicose veins and pregnancy – frequently asked questions