One leg swelling postpartum: what to know

The body is more likely to form clots during pregnancy and after delivery, and recovery can involve less movement. A deep-vein clot may cause swelling in one leg with calf or thigh discomfort, warmth, redness or heaviness. Infection, an injury, varicose veins or lymphatic swelling are other possibilities. Problems that retain fluid, including [Heart Failure](/conditions/heart-failure/) and [Chronic Kidney Disease](/conditions/chronic-kidney-disease/), more often cause swelling on both sides.

The timing, delivery details, medicines and examination help guide testing. An ultrasound may be used to look at blood flow in the leg; a normal-looking skin surface does not rule out a deeper problem.

Call your maternity unit, family doctor or urgent care service today. Explain that the swelling is one-sided and say whether you had a vaginal birth or C-section, when it started, and whether you have pain, redness, fever or reduced mobility. Do not massage the leg or borrow another person’s compression socks or blood thinners. Keep essentials nearby and arrange help with the baby while you are assessed. [Swollen Ankles](/symptoms/swollen-ankles/) explains related swelling terms.

Sudden shortness of breath, chest pain, coughing blood, fainting, confusion, severe weakness or a racing heartbeat requires emergency help. Urgent same-day review is needed for swelling that increases quickly, marked calf pain, heat or redness, or fever with worsening illness. Mention the recent birth to every clinician you contact.

Ask whether your symptoms suggest a deep-vein clot, whether you need imaging, how much walking is appropriate, and whether any treatment is compatible with breastfeeding. Ask when to recontact the service if the swelling persists or changes.