Leg swelling in the third trimester

As the uterus grows, it can make it harder for blood to return from the legs. Pregnancy hormones also encourage the body to retain fluid. Swelling often becomes more noticeable after standing or by the end of the day and may ease after rest.

A change that is sudden, marked, or accompanied by headache, visual disturbance, upper-abdominal pain, or feeling unwell needs assessment because pregnancy-related blood-pressure problems can present this way. One-sided pain, warmth, redness, or tenderness may point to a clot and should not be watched at home.

Break up long periods of standing, flex and move your ankles, and take gentle walks when comfortable. Rest on your side with your legs supported, choose roomy footwear, and avoid tight bands around your calves. Your maternity team can advise whether compression stockings are suitable.

Record when swelling is worst and whether it changes after rest. Keep antenatal appointments so blood pressure and urine can be checked. Avoid self-prescribed diuretics or supplements.

Call your maternity unit promptly if swelling increases quickly, affects one leg more than the other, or comes with leg pain, redness, or warmth. Get emergency help for severe breathlessness, chest pain, coughing blood, collapse, or a seizure.

Ask how your swelling compares with expected pregnancy changes, whether you need extra blood-pressure or urine checks, and which movements or support garments are safe. Tell them about headache, flashing lights, reduced urine, or breathlessness.