Swelling in the feet and ankles is common during pregnancy. This occurs because the body holds more blood during this time. This puts a lot of pressure on the veins as they work against gravity to get blood back up to the heart.

In addition, the relaxin hormone loosens the tendons and ligaments in the feet. This can lead to flat feet that may not return to normal after pregnancy.

Flattening of the Arches

During pregnancy, the hormone relaxin is produced to loosen ligaments around the pelvis in preparation for childbirth. Unfortunately, this also affects the feet and can cause arch flattening (pes planus). This condition is not only uncomfortable but may lead to foot and leg pain as well as a permanent increase in shoe size.

It is common for women to go up a half or even a full shoe size during pregnancy. This change is caused by both the increased weight and the loosened ligaments. While most arch problems are temporary, some women find that their arches never return to normal after pregnancy.

While hereditary traits play a major role in the development of flat feet, age can also contribute to this condition. Over time, the tendons and ligaments that support the foot’s arch can weaken until they break down completely, leaving the arch unsupported. This can be exacerbated by long periods of standing and certain types of injury to the feet and ankles.

Fallen arches can be spotted during a physical exam by an orthopedist or podiatrist. The physician will watch you stand or walk to observe the shape and position of your feet, and then may recommend physical therapy or a specific shoe insert. In some cases, surgery is necessary to repair or replace damaged tendons and restore proper foot alignment.

Increased Swelling

Swelling, or edema, is a normal part of pregnancy and usually occurs during the third trimester. Swelling happens because of the extra fluid the body produces to support the baby. It also helps soften the tissues and prepares pelvic joints for delivery. Swelling can be uncomfortable and may interfere with normal walking and movement. If it becomes severe and accompanied by other symptoms, seek medical attention. This could be a sign of preeclampsia, a serious pregnancy condition that needs immediate treatment to prevent long-term complications for mom and baby.

In addition to retaining fluid, the enlarged uterus puts pressure on the veins that return blood from the lower extremities to the heart. Changes in hormones can also contribute to swelling. It’s important to sleep on the left side, elevate the legs periodically throughout the day and wear loose clothing that doesn’t restrict blood flow. Wearing compression stockings can improve circulation and reduce edema.

Swelling after childbirth is common, but it’s often related to medication you take during labor and the hormone shift that comes with no longer being pregnant. Regardless of the cause, it’s not unusual for a woman to go up from half to one whole shoe size, especially after her first pregnancy. Some women’s feet never go back to their pre-pregnancy size. For those, surgery might be an option.

Increased Risk of Muscle Cramps

Pregnancy can cause an increase in the frequency of muscle cramps in the feet and calves. This is due to the increased pressure on muscles and bones, changes in mineral balance, dehydration, and the extra weight being carried.

Leg cramps are sudden tightness or contraction of a muscle. They can happen in any muscle group and are most common at night. They can last for several minutes and are usually very painful. They can also be associated with a feeling of heaviness or tiredness. It is important to see a doctor if cramping occurs frequently or is accompanied by other symptoms that may indicate the presence of a serious medical problem.

Approximately half of all expecting women get cramps, and they are most frequent in the second trimester and third trimester of pregnancy. The most common cause is a hormone called relaxin that loosens the ligaments around the pelvis in preparation for childbirth. This relaxation can also affect the ligaments in the feet, causing them to become more flexible and making the feet appear wider and longer.

There are many things you can do to reduce the risk of leg cramps during pregnancy. The most effective treatment is to raise your feet whenever possible, which can help reduce swelling and encourage blood flow back up the legs to the heart. It is also helpful to wear compression socks that end at the knee to improve circulation. Drinking lots of water, avoiding salty foods, and wearing supportive footwear are other important measures.

Permanent Increase in Shoe Size

The surge in pregnancy hormones can also cause the feet to grow, sometimes up a half or even full shoe size. This is what is known as mom feet and can happen as early as the second trimester, and for some women, it may last long after pregnancy.

Pregnancy can dramatically shift the way that a woman walks, putting more pressure on the balls of the feet and less on the arch. This combined with looser ligaments can lead to the arch flattening and the feet growing larger, making it hard to fit into your old shoes.

This is why it is important for women to invest in a few pairs of comfortable shoes for pregnancy. They should be worn regularly to encourage the foot muscles to strengthen and improve flexibility. This will help prevent the flattening of the arches and foot pain that is often experienced with pregnancy.

To reduce swelling in the feet, pregnant women should drink plenty of water and avoid salty foods. They should also try to take a break from standing for long periods of time, and do exercises that promote foot health such as flexing, pointing, or doing gentle ankle circles before walking. If symptoms get worse, it is important to contact a St. Cloud podiatrist, as severe foot and leg cramps can be a sign of the dangerous condition preeclampsia.