Swollen feet in the seventh month of pregnancy

Pregnancy changes how your body handles fluid, and the growing uterus can slow the return of blood from the legs. Swelling may be more noticeable at the end of the day, in warm weather or after standing. It often affects both feet and ankles and may improve after resting with your legs raised.

Swelling that appears quickly, is marked in the face or hands, or comes with a severe headache, visual symptoms or pain below the ribs can be a sign of pre-eclampsia. This pregnancy complication can occur even when earlier checks were normal. Learn more about [Pre-eclampsia](/conditions/pre-eclampsia/).

Take regular movement breaks, flex and circle your ankles, and rest on your side when comfortable. Raise your legs on a cushion, choose supportive shoes, and avoid tight bands around your ankles. Keep drinking normally and eat regular meals; do not restrict fluids or use water tablets without maternity advice.

Mention the swelling at your next antenatal appointment, especially if it is increasing. Your clinician may check blood pressure and urine and ask about headache, vision, abdominal pain and fetal movement. Home blood pressure readings can be useful when interpreted with your maternity team.

Contact your maternity unit urgently if swelling develops suddenly or affects your face or hands, or if you have a severe headache, flashing lights or blurred vision, pain under the ribs, vomiting, or feel very unwell. A single painful, red, warm or much more swollen leg, chest pain or sudden breathlessness also needs urgent assessment.

Ask whether your swelling pattern is expected, how often your blood pressure should be checked, and which symptoms should bring you to the maternity unit. Tell them when it started, whether both feet are affected, whether it improves overnight, and whether you have headache, visual change or abdominal pain.