Swelling in feet and ankles during pregnancy

Pregnancy increases the amount of fluid in the body. As the uterus grows, pressure on pelvic blood vessels can also slow the return of blood from the legs. Fluid may collect around the ankles and feet, especially after standing, walking, or sitting for a long time. It often improves after rest and may be more noticeable later in the day.

Swelling in both feet that develops gradually can fit this pattern. Swelling on one side, particularly with warmth, redness, tenderness, or calf pain, has a different urgency and should be assessed rather than explained away as ordinary pregnancy oedema.

Change position regularly and take gentle walks if your maternity clinician says activity is suitable. When resting, raise your feet on a cushion and avoid crossing your legs. Choose roomy shoes and socks that do not leave tight marks. Sleeping on your side may be more comfortable than lying flat on your back.

Drink to thirst and continue your usual balanced meals; do not take water tablets or herbal products for swelling unless prescribed. Mention persistent swelling at your next antenatal visit so your blood pressure and urine can be checked.

Contact your maternity team promptly if swelling appears suddenly, becomes pronounced in your face or hands, or comes with a severe headache, blurred vision, pain beneath the ribs, vomiting, or feeling very unwell. These symptoms can occur with pre-eclampsia, which needs medical assessment.

Seek urgent help for one-sided leg swelling with pain, warmth, or redness, or for chest pain, sudden breathlessness, coughing blood, or fainting. Do not wait for a routine appointment in these situations.

Ask whether the pattern is expected for your stage of pregnancy, whether your blood pressure and urine need checking, and which activity or support stockings are suitable for you. Ask what changes should lead you to call the maternity unit.