What should you know about puffiness during pregnancy?

It may be more noticeable in the feet, ankles, hands or face, especially after standing or later in the day. Your midwife or obstetric clinician can judge the pattern alongside your blood pressure and other symptoms.

Pregnancy changes how the body handles fluid and can make swelling build gradually. Mild, fairly even puffiness without pain or skin changes is often less concerning. Swelling that affects one area, becomes hot or red, or appears with itchy raised patches may have a skin or allergic cause such as Cellulitis, Hives or Angioedema. Facial swelling is particularly worth reporting if it is new or develops quickly.

Take regular breaks from standing, rest with your legs supported, and move your ankles gently. Comfortable shoes and loose clothing can reduce pressure. Keep normally hydrated and avoid changing salt intake or taking water tablets unless your pregnancy clinician advises it. Remove rings if your fingers begin to swell, and note when the puffiness starts, where it appears and whether it improves overnight.

Contact your maternity team promptly for sudden swelling of the face or hands, a severe headache, vision changes, pain beneath the ribs, unusual nausea, or feeling very unwell. Seek emergency help for breathing difficulty, throat or tongue swelling, chest pain, fainting, or a rapidly worsening allergic reaction. A painful, hot, red area or fever also needs urgent assessment.

Ask whether the distribution and timing of your swelling fit expected pregnancy changes, whether your blood pressure needs checking, and which medicines or compression options are suitable for you. Mention any new skincare product, food, medicine, rash, headache or visual symptom.