What should you know about lower leg swelling pregnancy?

Pregnancy changes fluid balance, and the growing uterus can make it harder for blood to return from the legs. Swelling is often gradual, affects both ankles, and is more noticeable later in the day or after standing. Varicose veins may add heaviness or aching. Swelling that appears quickly, is clearly greater on one side, or comes with pain, redness or warmth is different and should be assessed. A clinician also needs to know about headache, vision changes, upper abdominal pain or feeling unwell, because these symptoms can accompany pregnancy complications. Swelling alone cannot establish a diagnosis.

Change position regularly, take gentle walks, and move your ankles while sitting. Rest on your side when comfortable and raise your legs for short periods. Wear comfortable shoes and avoid tight socks or clothing around the legs. Keep drinking normally unless your maternity team has given different instructions. Do not take water tablets or use compression garments without checking that they are suitable for your pregnancy. Read about [Swollen Ankles](/symptoms/swollen-ankles/) and [Varicose Veins](/conditions/varicose-veins/).

Contact your maternity team promptly for sudden swelling of the face or hands, rapidly increasing leg swelling, a severe headache, visual disturbance, upper abdominal pain, or feeling unusually unwell. Seek urgent help for one-sided leg swelling with pain or warmth, chest pain, sudden breathlessness, faintness or coughing blood. Do not wait for a routine appointment when these symptoms occur.

Ask what degree of swelling is expected at your stage of pregnancy, whether your blood pressure needs checking, and which maternity contact to use outside routine appointments.