What should you know about excessive swelling in pregnancy?

Pregnancy can cause fluid to collect in the feet, ankles and lower legs, especially after standing or later in the day. Swelling that develops gradually and improves with rest is often less concerning. Swelling that appears quickly, affects the face or hands, or is accompanied by a severe headache, visual changes, pain under the ribs, vomiting or feeling very unwell can be a sign of pre-eclampsia. One-sided leg swelling with pain, warmth or breathlessness needs urgent attention because a blood clot may be involved.

Tell your maternity team about new or worsening swelling so they can check your blood pressure and urine and decide whether further tests are needed. While waiting for advice, rest on your side, raise your legs when sitting, avoid standing for long periods, wear comfortable shoes and keep gently active if you feel well. Do not restrict fluids or start medicines, compression garments or supplements without personalised advice.

Contact your maternity service promptly for sudden swelling, swelling of the face or hands, a severe or persistent headache, flashing lights or blurred vision, upper-abdominal pain, breathlessness, chest pain, or a marked reduction in your baby’s movements. Seek emergency help for severe breathing difficulty, chest pain, fainting or a seizure. These warning signs need assessment even if the swelling itself seems manageable.

Ask what pattern of swelling is expected at your stage of pregnancy, whether your blood pressure and urine should be checked today, and which symptoms should send you to emergency care. Ask whether your medicines or medical history change your risk, and how to monitor your baby’s movements. You can also ask about [Pre-eclampsia](/conditions/pre-eclampsia/).