When to worry about leg pain and swelling in pregnancy with varicose veins

Varicose veins are enlarged, twisted surface veins that may become more visible as pregnancy progresses. They can cause aching, heaviness, itching, throbbing, or swelling that is worse after standing and improves with rest or raising the legs. Pressure from the growing uterus and pregnancy-related changes in blood flow can make symptoms more noticeable. A clinician should review symptoms that are new, markedly different, or concentrated in one leg because surface veins do not explain every type of swelling or pain.

Change position regularly, avoid standing still for long periods, and raise your legs when resting. Comfortable movement such as walking may support circulation if your maternity team says it is suitable. Avoid tight clothing around the legs or groin. Compression stockings may help some people, but ask a clinician or pharmacist about the right type and fit, especially if swelling is sudden or painful. Do not puncture, squeeze, or massage a tender vein.

Contact your maternity team promptly for sudden swelling in one leg, worsening calf or thigh pain, warmth, redness, or a hard tender vein. Seek emergency help for breathlessness, chest pain, coughing blood, fainting, or severe weakness. Ask for assessment if a vein bleeds, the skin becomes damaged, or pain prevents normal walking. Gradual, mild symptoms can still be discussed at a routine visit, particularly when they affect sleep or daily movement.

Do my symptoms fit varicose veins, or do I need a scan? Are compression stockings suitable for me? How much activity is appropriate? What changes should make me call urgently, and what should I do if a vein bleeds?