What should you know about uterus swelling in pregnancy?

The uterus expands as the pregnancy develops, moving upward from the pelvis and making the abdomen feel fuller. Mild swelling in the ankles or feet can also occur, particularly after standing or later in pregnancy, because pregnancy changes fluid balance and circulation.

Swelling that appears suddenly, is marked, or affects the face and hands is different from ordinary end-of-day ankle swelling. When it occurs with a severe headache, visual changes, pain under the ribs, shortness of breath, or feeling very unwell, it can be a warning sign of pre-eclampsia. A clinician may check blood pressure, urine, symptoms, and the baby's wellbeing.

Tell your maternity team about new or increasing swelling, especially of the face or hands. Keep antenatal appointments, note when swelling began, and record associated headache, vision changes, abdominal pain, breathlessness, or reduced fetal movement. Resting on your side, avoiding long periods of standing, and comfortable footwear may ease mild foot swelling. Do not restrict fluids or take water tablets unless prescribed.

Contact your maternity service urgently for sudden swelling with headache, blurred vision or flashing lights, pain beneath the ribs, vomiting, or feeling very unwell. Seek emergency help for severe breathlessness, chest pain, collapse, seizure, or heavy bleeding. Reduced fetal movement also requires immediate pregnancy advice.

Is this swelling within the expected pregnancy pattern? Should my blood pressure and urine be checked today? What symptoms should prompt emergency care? How should I monitor fetal movement?