Compression Socks for Pregnancy
Expecting mothers deal with all sorts of discomforts during pregnancy, not the least of which are swelling in the feet and ankles and achy legs. Staying comfortable involves all sorts of remedies, even for the very healthiest of moms. Compression socks can be a valuable accessory in a new mom’s toolkit. From alleviating leg cramps to reducing swelling and the chance of developing varicose veins, wearing compression socks during pregnancy can make a big difference!
Benefits of Compression Socks for Pregnancy
Reduce Swelling
Swelling is a common, but uncomfortable side effect of pregnancy, as a woman's body produces approximately 50 percent more blood and body fluids to help support her developing baby. It's estimated that 25 percent of the weight women gain during pregnancy is due to extra fluids.
Graduated compression socks help reduce edema in the lower legs by applying gradual pressure that keeps fluid from accumulating in the feet & calves. When paired with healthy eating and exercise, compression socks can significantly reduce swelling during pregnancy.
Relieve Leg Cramps
No one tells you about leg cramps during pregnancy, but they are a common discomfort. Even if you’re drinking plenty of water and eating well, you might experience a charley horse or calf cramp due to the extra strain on your body during pregnancy. One of the most common factors for leg cramps is inadequate blood flow to the muscle. Compression socks can help by providing all-day support for your calf muscles and ensuring that your muscles have adequate blood supply.
Help Prevent Varicose Veins
As Dr. Andrew Grace explains in the video below, “Even if someone doesn’t get varicose veins during one pregnancy, the risk for varicose veins increases with each pregnancy.”
Many women develop varicose veins during pregnancy, simply due to the extra volume of blood and fluid in the body. Compression socks help support the circulation of blood during pregnancy, reducing the impact of fluid retention and volume on the legs. By taking the pressure off, they also help reduce pain and soreness in the lower legs.
From a doctor's perspective
Dr. Andrew Grace explains why many OBGYN's and vein specialists recommend compression socks during pregnancy.
Alleviate Achiness
Achy and heavy legs are another common ailment during pregnancy. It’s a lot of work to carry the extra weight of a growing baby around, not to mention what it does to your balance! Compression socks provide support for the joints and muscles in your lower legs. Just as athletes love compression socks for recovery, pregnant women can benefit from the gentle pressure of graduated compression on their achy ankles, calves and feet.
Maternity Compression Should Not Be Overlooked
Knee-high compression socks can help alleviate discomfort and swelling - and can also help prevent more serious issues. While pregnancy is a beautiful thing, developing a blood clot is a serious risk for expecting mothers. When the clot does not dissolve, it can lead to deep vein thrombosis, pulmonary embolism and other complications.
VIM & VIGR compression socks are perfect for women experiencing swelling in their feet and ankles during pregnancy. They're cute, comfortable and can help expecting moms focus on what's really important: growing & delivering a healthy baby!
SHOP COMPRESSION SOCKS FOR PREGNANCY
Common Questions about Wearing Compression Socks During Pregnancy
What are the best compression socks for pregnancy?
The best compression socks for pregnancy are the ones you’ll wear! Compression socks work the best when worn regularly. Make sure to look for true graduated compression socks to gain the benefits like relief from swelling and achiness.
How firm should compression socks for pregnancy be?
15-20 mmHg socks will help boost your blood circulation and prevent undesirable side effects like cankles, varicose veins, deep vein thrombosis and overall leg fatigue. If you need more support, 20-30 mmHg compression socks are equally comfortable and cute, but provide a bit more graduated compression.
When to wear compression socks during pregnancy?
Compression socks are safe for all day, every day wear. To experience the full benefits, it’s recommended to wear them for most of the day. Many people find compression socks helpful during the night, too —especially if you’re dealing with leg cramps or restless legs.
What Customers are Saying
"I am pregnant, a runner, AND I have a genetic predisposition to blood clots, so compression legwear is a MUST for me right now!! These are very comfortable, and very cute. Compression socks have come a long way from the ugly white anti-embolism stockings I used to wear. My legs feel great at the end of a long day, and I know I'm helping keep my baby safe!" — Katie B
"The fit and style are wonderful. Being eight months pregnant is hard. My feet and ankles were swelling and slightly painful when walking. These compression socks took all the discomfort away and make me feet and legs feel so much better. Thank you VIM & VIGR!" — Jennifer S.
"I bought these socks on recommendation from a friend, and I cannot tell you how much I love them. I am in my third trimester of pregnancy, and I was having pain in my legs and feet at night. It was keeping me awake, and anyone who has been pregnant knows that sleep is crucial. The first time I used the socks, the nighttime pain disappeared. I wear them every night for a few hours before bedtime, and they have made all the difference in the world. I am able to sleep again! These socks are worth every penny and then some." — Jordan M.
