Swelling in pregnancy: which month does it start?

As pregnancy progresses, the body holds more fluid and the growing uterus can slow blood return from the legs. This may cause puffiness that is worse after standing, walking, or later in the day. Mild swelling can affect both feet and improve after rest. Hands may also feel tight, and shoes or rings may become uncomfortable. The month alone does not decide whether swelling is harmless; its speed, severity, distribution, and accompanying symptoms matter.

Take regular breaks from standing and rest with your legs raised. Sleep on your side if that is comfortable, wear supportive shoes, and avoid socks or clothing that leave deep marks. Gentle walking and ankle movements can support circulation. Drink normally rather than restricting fluids, and do not start water tablets, herbal products, or a very low-salt diet without advice. Mention persistent swelling at routine antenatal visits so your blood pressure and urine can be checked.

Contact your maternity team promptly if swelling appears suddenly, becomes much stronger, or involves your face or hands. Seek urgent help for a severe headache, blurred vision or flashing lights, pain beneath the ribs, vomiting, breathlessness, chest pain, or feeling very unwell. Swelling in one leg with pain, warmth, redness, or tenderness also needs prompt assessment. These features can have causes that require treatment, including pre-eclampsia, a pregnancy blood-pressure condition.

Ask whether the pattern fits expected pregnancy fluid retention, whether your blood pressure and urine need checking, and which changes should trigger a same-day call. You can also ask about safe activity, footwear, and whether another condition or medicine could be contributing.