Swelling in legs during the fourth month of pregnancy

As pregnancy progresses, the body retains more fluid and the growing uterus can affect blood return from the legs. Swelling may be more noticeable after standing, walking, or in warm weather. It commonly affects both feet or ankles and may improve after rest and elevation.

Swelling that appears quickly, is prominent in the face or hands, or occurs with a severe headache, vision changes, upper abdominal pain, or feeling very unwell can be associated with pre-eclampsia. A swollen leg is not proof of this condition, but the pattern and accompanying symptoms deserve clinical review.

Change position often, take gentle walks if your pregnancy team has not restricted activity, and rest on your side with your legs supported. Choose roomy shoes, avoid tight bands around the calves, and keep fluids at your usual level. Do not start water tablets, supplements, or compression garments without advice tailored to your pregnancy.

Contact your maternity team promptly if swelling is sudden, rapidly increasing, clearly worse on one side, or accompanied by calf pain, warmth, redness, severe headache, visual disturbance, or pain beneath the ribs. Get emergency help for chest pain, fainting, or sudden breathlessness. Read more about [Pre-eclampsia](/conditions/pre-eclampsia/).

Does my swelling pattern need a blood pressure or urine check? What activity and leg-support measures are suitable for me? Which changes should prompt an urgent call?