Ankle swelling in the second trimester

Pregnancy changes fluid balance and blood flow, allowing fluid to collect around the feet and ankles. A gradual, symmetrical pattern after standing differs from swelling paired with headache, visual disturbance, upper abdominal pain, breathlessness, or calf symptoms.

The expanding uterus and pregnancy hormones can slow the return of blood from the legs. Heat, long periods upright, and limited movement can make ankle puffiness more noticeable later in the day. This fluid-related swelling is often similar on both sides.

A deep vein clot may present during pregnancy with swelling mainly in one leg, often with calf pain, warmth, redness, or tenderness. Pregnancy-related high blood pressure conditions may present with a severe headache, vision changes, pain beneath the ribs, nausea, sudden swelling of the face or hands, or rapid worsening of swelling.

Rest with your feet raised, avoid staying in one position for long stretches, and take regular gentle walks if your pregnancy clinician has not restricted activity. Comfortable, non-tight footwear can accommodate changes through the day. Lying on your side may feel better than lying flat later in pregnancy.

Mention new swelling at your antenatal appointment and describe when it started, whether both sides match, and which symptoms accompany it. Ask before using compression socks if you have circulation concerns, and do not take diuretics or herbal remedies unless prescribed for your situation.

Get emergency help for ankle or leg swelling with chest pain, sudden difficulty breathing, coughing blood, collapse, seizure, or confusion. A blood clot affecting the lungs or a severe pregnancy complication must be assessed immediately.

Contact your maternity service urgently for new one-sided leg swelling, calf pain, warmth or redness, severe headache, blurred vision or flashing lights, pain under the ribs, vomiting, or sudden swelling of the face and hands. Do not wait for a routine visit when these features occur.

Ask whether your blood pressure and urine need checking, which exercises match your pregnancy, and whether compression wear is suitable. If only one leg is affected, clarify whether an examination or vein ultrasound is needed.