Varicose Veins in Pregnancy

While varicose vein disease may affect up to 20% of the population, as many as 40% of women will experience varicose veins as a result of pregnancy. Venous insufficiency is a term that describes malfunctioning veins, causing symptoms of leg heaviness, aching pain, swelling, leg skin discoloration, and bulging, throbbing varicose veins. This can occur in a wide array of people, with a wide range of ages, and people with or without other medical conditions.

The pathology that typically causes varicose veins, namely reflux of the great or small saphenous vein, with enlarged, visible branch veins, can be caused or worsened by pregnancy. Fluctuations in female hormones during normal pregnancy can weaken veins, and the enlarged uterus placed pressure on veins in the pelvis, worsening the problem. 

Common symptoms during pregnancy include leg swelling, heaviness, and aching pain. If the venous insufficiency is severe, bulging varicose veins may appear, and cause more pain. The first steps in treatment include wearing a good compression stocking by day, elevating the legs, and avoiding prolonged periods of sitting or standing. Trying to maintain some level of exercise is beneficial.  The symptoms these veins cause, and the veins themselves, can often improve within 3-6 months after pregnancy.

In situations where the veins and the associated symptoms persist, or even worsen, then a vein evaluation is recommended. A vein specialist can discuss signs and symptoms of your venous disease and either recommend continued conservative management with compression stockings, elevation, and exercise, or recommend vein intervention. A venous duplex ultrasound is the next step, and this study can demonstrate which veins are abnormal, and also help to determine treatment options.

So, don’t worry. If you have persistent vein issues following your pregnancy, minimally invasive treatment options are available. These are typically done in an office-based setting, with minimal discomfort, minimal downtime, and rapid relief. If you have any questions regarding pregnancy associated vein disease, call Precision Vein Care today for an appointment.