Pain and swelling in feet during pregnancy

Pregnancy can increase fluid in the body and make it harder for blood to return from the legs. The growing womb can add pressure, so feet and ankles may feel tight, heavy, or sore, especially after standing or later in the day. Swelling that affects one leg more than the other, appears suddenly, or is paired with headache, vision changes, upper-abdominal pain, or feeling unwell needs medical attention. A clinician may need to assess blood pressure and other causes.

Take regular movement breaks, avoid standing for long periods, and rest with your feet raised. Wear comfortable shoes and avoid tight straps around swollen areas. Gentle ankle movements can support circulation. Keep scheduled antenatal appointments and mention any change in swelling or pain. Do not start compression garments, supplements, or medicines without advice from your maternity team, particularly if swelling is painful or uneven.

Contact your maternity team urgently for sudden swelling of the face or hands, a severe headache, visual disturbance, pain below the ribs, shortness of breath, or feeling markedly unwell; these can occur with pre-eclampsia. Seek emergency help for chest pain, severe breathing difficulty, or a painful, red, hot, one-sided leg. Read more about [Pre-eclampsia](/conditions/pre-eclampsia/).

Is my swelling pattern expected for this stage of pregnancy? Should my blood pressure or urine be checked? Would support stockings or another measure be suitable for me?