Treatment of varicose veins during pregnancy. Medicine plus home remedies

You have probably heard about such a disease as varicose veins. It is associated with persistent irreversible dilation of the veins and, as a result, disruption of normal blood flow. Varicose veins are most often observed in the lower part of the body - on the legs, on the genitals, in the pelvis. One of the favorable factors for the occurrence of such changes is pregnancy. Of course, this does not mean that if you become pregnant, you will definitely encounter this disease: only half of women experience varicose veins during pregnancy. If a woman has suffered from it before, then while carrying a baby the disease will most likely begin to progress.

Varicose veins during pregnancy develop as a result of changes in the body of the expectant mother, the structure of her body and a change in the woman’s lifestyle. There are some specific factors that provoke the appearance of this disease:

1. Hormonal changes. During pregnancy, the level of progesterone increases, which relaxes the muscles of the uterus, but it also has “ by-effect": relaxation of the walls of blood vessels. As a result, the ascending veins cannot actively pump blood, stagnation begins, which contributes to even greater dilation of blood vessels - a vicious circle!
2. Increased venous pressure– blood in pregnant women becomes more fluid. This is necessary to improve blood supply to the fetus. But this is not so good for the veins: they become permanently dilated.
3. Increased blood clot formation- this is how the body prepares for childbirth so that the woman does not lose too much blood after the placenta separates. But, if varicose veins have already begun, the tendency to thrombosis will only worsen the situation.
4. Level reduction physical activity – Pregnant women often prefer to lie down than do some kind of gymnastics. However, if there are no contraindications, gymnastics must be done! Or take long walks. All this improves blood circulation and serves as a prevention of varicose veins.

Types of varicose veins during pregnancy

By the way, varicose veins happen various types. Consider those that occur most often during pregnancy:

• varicose veins during pregnancy in the groin - the appearance of swollen veins in the groin, the woman feels “bloating” in this area;
• varicose veins of the uterus during pregnancy are the result of a hereditary predisposition and increased work of the iliac veins. It can also occur as a result of prolonged inflammatory processes, abortions, failure menstrual cycle etc.;
• Vaginal varicose veins during pregnancy are a fairly common form of the disease, which especially often affects women whose mothers and grandmothers suffered from enlarged veins in the legs;
• and, finally, varicose veins on the legs - the most common form of this disease.

Treatment of varicose veins

Not all methods used to treat varicose veins can be applied to women in an “interesting situation.” For example, sclerotherapy (injections of special drugs) and surgery are radical, but also the most effective ways- Strictly contraindicated for pregnant women. They should not be used even if a woman plans to become a mother within the next two years, because then a relapse of the disease is practically unavoidable.

Therefore, the only remedies for varicose veins during pregnancy that will certainly not harm either the expectant mother or the baby are: wearing compression garments (special stockings and tights) and various means for local application (creams, ointments). If we talk about the latter, then products based on heparin (“Lioton-gel”) and horse chestnut extract (preparations such as “Dr. Theiss”, “Venitan”, etc.) have proven themselves well. If your doctor recommends that you wear compression stockings or knee socks, be prepared for the fact that you will have to wear them during childbirth - at this time the risk of developing thrombosis increases significantly.

How does childbirth occur with varicose veins?

Varicose veins are not at all a contraindication to bearing and giving birth to a baby. You just need to be more careful about your health. The doctor will suggest prevention of thrombosis and inflammation of the veins. The question will also arise about which way to give birth - natural or with the help caesarean section. You will decide this together with your gynecologist and phlebologist. If possible, preference is always given natural childbirth. But before giving birth, you will definitely wear compression stockings or bandage your legs with elastic bandages to prevent the backflow of blood during labor.

Do varicose veins go away after childbirth?

By the way, many are interested: if during pregnancy the doctor diagnosed “varicose veins,” then what to expect after childbirth – recovery or, conversely, an aggravation of the situation? No one, not even your attending physician, will give you a definite answer to this question. It all depends on the characteristics of your body. Some women after giving birth forget about what varicose veins are (at least for a while), while others continue to suffer and look for ways to eliminate this problem. So, how are varicose veins treated after childbirth?

Today, medicine can offer 2 ways to treat varicose veins: conservative – with the help of medications and operational – by surgical intervention.

After childbirth, women often develop, in addition to varicose veins, venous thrombophlebitis, inflammation of the vein walls, and venous thrombosis. The symptoms are usually the same: tension of the veins, painful sensations when palpated, redness of the skin on the affected area of ​​the body, up to an increase in temperature. If you observe all these unpleasant phenomena in yourself, immediately contact your doctor and be prepared for him to prescribe hospitalization for you.

Now you need bed rest, and most of the time your legs should be in an elevated position. If speak about drug treatment during this period, in such cases sulfonamides, antibiotics, anti-inflammatory drugs and, if necessary, painkillers are usually prescribed. Sometimes doctors fight the problem with the help of coagulants - drugs that prevent blood clotting. There is one peculiarity: they can be taken no earlier than 3 days after birth to avoid uterine bleeding.

Prevention of varicose veins during pregnancy

As always, preventing a disease is much easier than treating it. Therefore, every woman needs to know about measures to prevent varicose veins during pregnancy, regardless of whether she has a predisposition to this disease.

If neither you nor your family have ever encountered such a problem, you do not spend all day on your feet and you do not have excess weight– preventing varicose veins will not be difficult. If all these “aggravating” factors are present, then preventive measures must be resorted to with double diligence: this really gives very good results.

By the way, remember that each subsequent pregnancy increases the risk of the occurrence and development of varicose veins.

If you notice that swollen venous “nodules” (even very small ones) have appeared on your legs, go to a phlebologist or surgeon: the doctor will monitor you throughout your pregnancy and for some time after childbirth.

How to avoid varicose veins during pregnancy

Let long (at least 2 hours) walking walks around the city will become your daily habit. This is a good warm-up for the calf muscles, and blood circulation improves significantly when walking. But in extreme heat it is better to stay home.

Another great option - swimming: This is both physical activity and a kind of water massage. It is also useful because it has a beneficial effect on the spine, which experiences increasing stress as your tummy grows.

A contrast shower will also be useful for you, but the temperature difference should not be too great, otherwise you may feel ill (not because of varicose veins, but simply because of “ interesting situation"). Be guided by your feelings.

Be careful when choosing shoes. None high heels ! If there is a heel, then it should be low (no more than 3-5 cm) and stable. It should not have elastic bands, ties or laces that squeeze and tighten the leg - this interferes with blood circulation. The same goes for tight elastic socks.

Try periodically throughout the day lie down for 15-20 minutes with your legs elevated. Have you seen in films how Americans sit with their feet on the table? We consider this unacceptable, but what an excellent prevention of varicose veins! Of course, you don’t have to put your legs on the table, but on soft pillow- that's it.

Get used to it sleep only on your left side: This relieves the pressure of the uterus on the vein that is on the right side and reduces the venous pressure in the legs. Try placing a small pillow under your stomach, it is very comfortable.

To prevent varicose veins during pregnancy, and simply for good health, try to distribute the time during the day that you spend in the “standing-sitting-lying” positions. Any extremes are unacceptable: you should neither walk to the point of exhaustion, nor lie on the couch for 10 hours straight.

Do not sit with your legs crossed, especially on a low seat.

Women suffer from varicose veins several times more often than men. During pregnancy, latent pathological conditions or a predisposition to such conditions in the body of the expectant mother become aggravated, leading to the appearance of the notorious stars and webs on the legs.

There is a popular myth that varicose veins are almost an obligatory companion for all pregnant women. However, many women calmly carry a child, unaware of the possibility of congestion in the veins. In others, the disease manifests itself only later or with repeated pregnancies.

What do you need to know to successfully resist it, and how to safely treat it?

Statistics inform that with signs of varicose veins Faces up to 50% of expectant mothers, most of them in the later stages. The main “culprits” of illness during pregnancy are:

• Changes in hormonal balance. The content of the hormone progesterone, necessary for successful pregnancy, increases in the blood of a pregnant woman. Progesterone reduces the tone of the muscle walls of the uterus, and at the same time the walls of blood vessels.
• Increased circulating blood volume(up to 1.5 times), which increases the likelihood of stagnation.
• Pressure of the growing uterus on the deep veins, as a result of which blood circulation in the legs and pelvic organs is disrupted.
• Change chemical composition blood, primarily the growth of fibrinogen. This is an important factor in the blood clotting system, the change in which increases the risk of blood clots. The blood becomes more “viscous” and its flow through the vessels is difficult.

All these factors can manifest themselves only slightly at the beginning of pregnancy, but progress closer to childbirth. Varicose veins manifest themselves most clearly on recent months.

Indirect factors of varicose veins in pregnant women may include:

• Genetic factor. If there were women in the family suffering from varicose veins, they almost certainly passed on the predisposition by inheritance.
• Increase in body weight, especially rapid weight gain (the circulatory system does not have time to adapt to the stress).
• Low physical activity.
• Poor nutrition, insufficient fiber intake.

Blood flows in to the lower part of the body and limbs along large vessels, and this is where varicose veins begin. Veins do not provide adequate blood flow and timely return to the heart. arise congestion, pressure in the veins increases, bursting them from the inside and deforming them.

Symptoms and diagnosis

The disease can signal itself without yet manifesting itself externally:

• Swelling of the legs, especially the feet, progressing in the evening. Shoes become tight.
• Night cramps in the legs, feeling of heat, fullness, tingling, discomfort.
• Skin pigmentation on the legs.

In late pregnancy Varicose veins can appear not only on the legs. Pregnant women suffer from dilatation. It is also the cause of such intimate problems as hemorrhoids.

With progression of the disease under the skin of the lower extremities specific spider veins appear, the legs are dotted with a network of capillaries. Varicose veins can affect larger vessels, and the pattern of the veins becomes more distinct; bulges and nodules form under the skin.

The diagnosis is made based on the clinical picture and the patient’s complaints by a specialist in venous disease: a phlebologist or a vascular surgeon.

Safe treatments

Varicose veins can greatly darken the period of bearing a child. Not only is it unnecessary to put up with it, but it is also fraught with complications.

The main treatment for varicose veins during pregnancy is aimed at preventing thrombosis and ensuring good blood circulation. First of all pregnant The following useful points should be taken into account:

Pregnant women with problem veins are advised to wear special compression stockings. To prevent the disease, compression class No. 1 is recommended; with pronounced signs of varicose veins, it can be increased to No. 2. Elastic compression improves blood circulation several times, keeping veins toned. Before purchasing stockings, be sure to take measurements of each leg in the morning, before swelling appears.

Medical stockings for varicose veins in pregnant women will have to be worn throughout the entire pregnancy, including childbirth, and for some period after the birth of the child.

For more useful information on this topic, watch the video:

List of drugs

In addition to compression stockings, exercises and healthy lifestyle recommendations the doctor can recommend and medications.

Local preparations are available in the form ointments, creams and gels, applied directly to the affected area of ​​the skin, usually 2-3 times a day. Since they penetrate only to a limited depth, they have no effect on the cause of the disease.

Phlebotonics for oral use have a general venotonic effect, reduce the permeability of vascular walls, and increase their elasticity. The duration and regimen of treatment are determined by the doctor and the instructions for the drug.

What not to do?

The use of any medications for varicose veins during pregnancy should be taken with the utmost seriousness. This is not the case when you can self-medicate. Any remedy must be prescribed by a doctor. Only a specialist will be able to select the right combination of drugs that will give maximum effect with a minimum of side effects.

• prolonged exposure to the sun,
• visiting a sauna or steam bath,
• cosmetic procedures that cause microtrauma to the skin (peeling, hair removal with hot wax, etc.).

Qualified treatment and compliance with all recommendations allows you to achieve good blood flow compensation in a short time (up to 1 month) and prevent the progression of the disease.

When is an urgent need to see a doctor?

Varicose veins are not dangerous in themselves, and mostly cause inconvenience due to cosmetic defects. However advanced cases are fraught with very serious complications, often requiring urgent medical intervention. The most formidable of them include:

• . Formation of a blood clot in the lumen of a vein. The site of the thrombus is hard to the touch, painful, with hot skin. When there is pronounced swelling.
• . Blockage of both the pulmonary artery itself and its branches may occur. In the latter case, diagnosis is difficult, since there are no obvious symptoms. Caused by blood clots in the veins of the legs or pelvis.
• . Condition preceding thromboembolism. It is treated with anticoagulants (blood thinning drugs), and elastic compression is mandatory.
• Trophic ulcers. Inflammation of the skin, bones and tendons due to the destruction of blood vessels. A long-term process that is aggravated by diabetes mellitus.

These pathologies may be associated with various infections, such as erysipelas, etc.

During pregnancy you should especially listen carefully to changes in your body. A general or local increase in body temperature, thickened painful areas on the skin, a change in its color, severe swelling are reasons to urgently consult a doctor.

If a diagnosis of varicose veins is established, observation by a phlebologist is indicated throughout the entire pregnancy.

If the veins are in good condition and the disease did not manifest itself in any way before pregnancy, all signs will disappear after childbirth. The most effective way to prevent varicose veins in pregnant women is healthy image life, coupled with simple recommendations for vein tone.

Pregnancy imposes restrictions on the treatment tactics of the disease, therefore usually used conservative methods treatment varicose veins Surgical methods of intervention are postponed until after childbirth, unless there are serious medical indications for such.

Pregnancy is a miracle that every woman looks forward to. However, along with it comes many different problems. Varicose veins during pregnancy are one of these.

Varicose veins - vein disease

Varicose veins are dilation of veins, in which nodes form and blood flow is disrupted. People who are most susceptible to the disease are those who are overweight, the elderly, pregnant women, as well as those who have dysfunction of the heart, liver, or genital organs (STDs - trichomoniasis, ureaplasmosis, fungi). Among patients with varicose veins, the majority are women, since hormonal levels have a special influence on the patency and elasticity of blood vessels. Any fluctuations in hormones can cause varicose veins. Most often, the disease “attacks” the veins in the legs. A person who spends a long time on his feet is most susceptible to varicose veins. The disease can also appear on other parts of the body - on the hands, genitals, and groin. These places are especially often affected by varicose veins during pregnancy.

Causes

There may be several reasons why veins lose their elasticity:

1. Genetic predisposition. If one of your loved ones suffered from varicose veins, the chances of inheriting this disease are very high.
2. Various vein injuries.
3. Hormonal disorders, disruptions (menopause, pregnancy).
4. Overweight.
5. Diseases of the liver, rectum (frequent constipation).
6. Sedentary, sedentary lifestyle.
7. Standing work, during which the load on the legs and, accordingly, the veins increases.
8. Congenital venous anomalies.
9. Constant lifting of weights.

Vein diseases affect most of the adult population of the planet. Varicose veins appear especially often during pregnancy. Treatment of the disease will then depend on its complexity, as well as the risks to the fetus and mother.

Symptoms of varicose veins

The main symptom indicating the development of the disease is that the veins on the body become more noticeable. However, few people immediately pay attention to this. People often remember the disease when veins protrude above the surface of the skin. This phenomenon is accompanied by pain and swelling, changes in the skin. It gets darker, it arises dark spots. Dryness may occur. Sometimes wounds appear that for a long time don't heal.

Varicose veins are accompanied by itching, a feeling of heaviness and fatigue in the legs. If varicose veins occur in the groin during pregnancy, the main symptom will be enlargement of the labia and the formation of nodules on them. Heaviness and pain when walking and physical activity are also observed. After childbirth, the disease may suddenly disappear, just as it appeared. However, you still have to consult a doctor. After all, varicose veins sometimes significantly complicate the birth process.

Varicose veins of the uterus during pregnancy

The main cause of varicose veins in expectant mothers is hormonal changes. With the advent of a new life, all the efforts of a woman’s body are aimed at supplying the fetus with useful substances necessary for its growth. All these substances are delivered along with the blood through the veins. Thus, the blood flow in the pregnant woman’s body increases, which means the load on the vessels increases. This is where varicose veins originate.

Women with a genetic predisposition especially often suffer from the disease. In this case, the disease can appear anywhere: on the legs, arms, internal and external genital organs. Varicose veins of the pelvis during pregnancy are a common phenomenon. The main symptoms of the disease are pain in the lower abdomen, increased sensitivity of the genital organs, painful sexual intercourse, and problematic urination. It is extremely undesirable to ignore varicose veins, as there may be contraindications to natural childbirth. However, radical treatment will also have to wait. The only way out is drug therapy and wearing special compression garments. Those women who have uterine varicose veins during pregnancy should be prepared for a cesarean section, since during spontaneous childbirth uterine bleeding may develop, sometimes leading to death.

Treatment of varicose veins

Of course, it is more difficult to treat varicose veins during pregnancy. This is because you can only use medications that are not always effective. In addition to medications, phlebologists (doctors who deal with vein diseases) recommend:

• Long walks on foot.
• Take a lying position with your legs elevated.
• Eat properly and balanced.
• Avoid hot baths, saunas and steam baths.
• Wearing compression garments is very effective method fight against varicose veins.
• Use special ointments, creams, gels for their intended purpose.

If varicose veins are detected during pregnancy, treatment should be started immediately. Perhaps the disease will disappear before delivery, or at least its symptoms will decrease.

The main methods of treating varicose veins:

1. Laser. Bursts of energy compact the vein and return it to its previous state.
2. Phlebectomy. Removal of varicose veins surgically under general anesthesia.
3. Vein extraction. A surgical operation during which the diseased vein is removed and a flexible wire is inserted in its place.
4. Endoscopy. Used for severe cases. This is an operation during which an incision is made and a camera device is inserted into it. Having assessed the situation from the inside, the specialist chooses treatment tactics.
5. Sclerotherapy. Treatment of varicose veins through injections.

All these treatment methods, as a rule, are not prescribed to expectant mothers. They are used only after childbirth.

If varicose veins occur during pregnancy, a correct and healthy lifestyle will be the only salvation. Well, who else but future mom, should I know about this?

Complications of varicose veins

Varicose veins are not such a terrible disease if treated in a timely manner. But if you give up on it, the following complications may arise:

1. Trophic ulcers of veins. These are wounds that do not heal for a long time due to impaired blood flow through the veins. The disease appears in advanced stages of varicose veins and leads to excruciating pain.
2. Thrombophlebitis. Inflammation of the veins, accompanied by the formation of blood clots. The cause of the disease is slow blood flow. This phenomenon is especially dangerous for expectant mothers. A blood clot can block the nutrition of the placenta, resulting in fetoplacental insufficiency. Therefore, varicose veins during pregnancy require strict control and observation.
3. Chronic venous insufficiency- darkening of the skin, constant fatigue and heaviness in the legs, even after rest. The disease may be accompanied by eczema and dermatitis. The disease progresses slowly, affecting increasingly larger areas.

Simple prevention of varicose veins will help prevent your body from reaching such conditions.

Preventive measures

Many expectant mothers are interested in the question: “If varicose veins appear during pregnancy, what should I do?” The correct answer is to carry out timely prevention:

1. Forget about cross-legged posture while sitting.
2. Don't overuse harmful products containing cholesterol.
3. Maintain your weight at a certain level.
4. Get rid of tight, constricting and uncomfortable clothing.
5. The same should be done with shoes. In no case should it be one size smaller.
6. Avoid constipation.
7. Eat more fresh vegetables and fruits.
8. If you do standing work, find time for a fifteen-minute rest.
9. If you lead a sedentary lifestyle, take two-hour walks.
10. Wear compression tights or stockings.
11. Minimize your consumption of alcoholic beverages and coffee.
12. Stop smoking.

Traditional methods of treatment

Folk wisdom in the treatment of varicose veins can be used both as an independent and as an additional method.

Medicinal recipes can be divided into compresses and decoctions.

Compresses:

• Garlic. Dilute garlic (chopped) one to two and vegetable oil. Apply to diseased veins at night.
• Kalanchoe. Infuse the leaves of the flower in alcohol for three weeks. Wipe the affected areas of the veins with the resulting lotion.
• Raw mashed potatoes - the best remedy against fatigue and swelling of the legs.

• Nettles. Pour one spoon of dry herb into 300 ml of boiling water and leave. Drink 0.5 cups 3 times a day.
• Nutmeg. Dilute one tablespoon of nutmeg powder in 200 ml of boiling water and add honey. Drink one glass a day an hour before meals. The most effective remedy even in the later stages of varicose veins.

When varicose veins appear during pregnancy? traditional methods therapy is the best medicine!

When using herbs and infusions, you should always consult your doctor. Home herbal medicine, although it has proven itself well in the treatment of many diseases, can sometimes cause harm.

Varicose veins and childbirth

Of course, a slight dilation of the veins is not yet an indication for a cesarean section. For varicose veins on the legs, the solution to the problem will be special compression stockings, which are worn before childbirth.

But if varicose veins are found in the groin during pregnancy, the picture will be different. The fact is that during childbirth a woman can get ruptures, which often affect varicose veins. And this causes bleeding and infection. Therefore, with varicose veins of the pelvic organs, natural childbirth is most often abandoned.

Varicose veins after childbirth

For many people, varicose veins go away on their own after childbirth. However, if this does not happen, it’s time to treat the disease. There is no longer any risk to the fetus, so you can use everything possible ways therapy. One of the simplest and most effective is sclerotherapy, during which medicine is injected into the diseased vein using a thin needle. The procedure is performed under anesthesia. After its completion, there are no scars or scars left.

You should also continue to wear compression garments and take walks. Now it will be more fun to walk, because you have a newborn baby next to you!

Conclusion

Varicose veins are a disease in which veins lose their firmness and elasticity. Hormonal levels have a huge impact on the disease. Any fluctuations in hormones can negatively affect the legs (the main site of attack for varicose veins).

Many expectant mothers are interested in why varicose veins appear during pregnancy, how to treat the disease so as not to harm themselves and the baby? The best therapy is a correct and healthy lifestyle, walking fresh air and compression garments. It is better for pregnant women to refrain from taking medications and undergoing surgery.

Varicose veins are a disease in which thinning of the venous walls occurs and an increase in the lumen of the bloodstream with the subsequent formation of nodular expansions.

Varicose veins develop in 20–30% of women during pregnancy. Pathological changes most often occur in the veins of the lower extremities. Externally, the disease is expressed in the appearance of spider veins and spider veins. In advanced cases, swelling of the veins is observed. Clinical manifestations without external symptoms develop in approximately 80% of expectant mothers.

Symptoms

Symptoms of varicose veins depend on the current stage of the disease. Initially, the pathology causes minimal discomfort. As the condition worsens, the clinical picture also intensifies.

The initial signs of abnormal varicose veins include:

• the formation of a vascular pattern indicating the affected area - calves, the area under the knees, the outer surface of the thigh - not painful on palpation;
• feeling of heaviness in the legs;
• rare cramps in the calf muscles at night.

In the absence of adequate therapy, the initial symptoms include:

• swelling;
• change in the venous pattern - protrusion of the walls of blood vessels, the formation of “nodes”;
• deterioration of condition skin;
• pain syndrome accompanied by a feeling of fullness in the affected veins;
• formation .

Such a clinical picture allows you to confirm the diagnosis without ordering tests. Additional Methods diagnostics are justified at an early stage of varicose veins, to exclude the development of diseases with similar symptoms.

Most often, varicose pathology affects the veins of the lower extremities, but during pregnancy, disturbances in the outflow of blood can be recorded in the organs of the pelvic region and labia.

This type of varicose veins is difficult to distinguish from standard gynecological pathologies. The condition is accompanied by typical symptoms:

1. Pain in the lower abdomen.
2. Copious vaginal discharge.
3. Discomfort during intimate relationships.
4. Difficulty emptying the bladder.

Only a doctor can make an accurate diagnosis during an examination in a chair. In this case, a change in the venous pattern of the vagina and the visible segment of the cervix is ​​clearly visible.

It is important to know! Untreated varicose veins of the pelvic area can cause infertility - a woman cannot become pregnant.

External manifestations of varicose veins of the pelvic region appear in rare cases. Spider veins and nodules can form in the buttocks, perineum, pubic area and inner thighs.

Reference! A woman with a severe form will give birth by caesarean section.

That is why the disease occurs in a latent form for a long time and is accompanied by the development of serious complications. These are vaginal and uterine bleeding, inflammation of internal organs, thrombosis and others.

Varicose veins of the labia are a common occurrence during pregnancy.. The risk of developing pathology only increases with each subsequent gestation. After childbirth, the condition of the veins quickly returns to normal.

The signs are:

1. The appearance of a characteristic venous pattern.
2. Protrusion, drooping of inflamed areas of veins.
3. Itching and dryness of the skin and mucous membranes.
4. Increase in the size of the labia and vulva due to swelling.
5. Painful sensations.

With varicose veins in the groin area, discomfort may occur:

• during urination and defecation;
• after sexual contact;
• after prolonged sitting;
• while walking.

Complications of varicose veins

Signs of varicose veins appear in the second trimester, around the 4th – 5th gestational month. Venous pressure in the legs increases, which leads to a slowdown in the rate of blood outflow. If a woman does not receive the necessary treatment, the disease becomes the cause of a difficult course of pregnancy, labor itself and the postpartum period.

Stagnation of blood in the veins of the pelvis leads to poor contractility of the uterus, which can provoke severe bleeding and the development of arterial thrombosis.

Important! For a child, pathological dilatation of the veins of the lower extremities in his mother is not dangerous.

Diagnosis of varicose veins

A phlebologist makes the diagnosis. It is this doctor who selects treatment and decides on the need for consultation with a vascular surgeon.

Necessary examinations

In order to diagnose vein pathology, a woman is prescribed the following tests and instrumental tests:

• Ultrasound examination of the vessels of the lower extremities. The technique makes it possible to identify the degree of damage to the blood vessels, assess the consistency of the valve apparatus, etc.
• General blood analysis. Of diagnostic interest is the leukocyte formula, the number of leukocytes and platelets.
• Coagulogram. The study helps evaluate blood clotting parameters.

Treatment of varicose veins during pregnancy

This period has some peculiarities. When the first signs appear, you should immediately seek medical help.

Important! The selection of medications should be done by a specialist, since medications have their own contraindications by trimester.

To increase vascular tone, Detralex, Glivenol and Troxevasin tablets can be prescribed. They have an angioprotective effect, help reduce swelling and reduce pain. In addition, therapy with these agents eliminates night cramps and improves cellular nutrition of inflamed tissues.

After 3 months, the use of Venoruton gels, as well as Lyoton and Essaven, is allowed.

Allowed to use traditional methods treatments, for example, preparing balms and herbal infusions for applying compresses. But first you need to consult with your doctor.

Prevention of varicose veins during pregnancy

Veins of the lower extremities during pregnancy are one of the most effective measures to prevent the development of the disease.

Nutrition

The daily diet should include foods that can provide female body essential vitamins and microelements. Its basis is:

• complex carbohydrates: grain bread, cereals, fresh vegetables and fruits;
• low-fat or low-fat fish;
• meat tenderloin;
• poultry (be sure to remove the skin to reduce calorie content);
• nuts;
• dairy products (medium fat is best).

It is necessary to limit the consumption of butter: during the day you can eat a piece weighing no more than 10 grams.

Preventing excessive weight gain

One of the reasons for the development of varicose veins is accelerated weight gain. To prevent excessive weight gain, fasting days are recommended for women.

There are several options:

• kefir (1.5 l);
• apple (1.5 kg);
• buckwheat (250 g of cereal);
• vegetable (1.5 kg).

The daily intake of the selected product - indicated in brackets - must be divided into 6 doses. You need to eat often, every 2 hours. Appearance strong feeling hunger is unacceptable.

You are allowed to drink during the day clean water. Sugar and salt are completely excluded. By following the recommendations, you can lose up to 2 kg of weight in one day.

Physical activity

Physical activity acceptable during pregnancy and frequent changes in the position of the legs will help improve blood circulation in the lower extremities and prevent the development of varicose veins.

During the day you can perform simple exercises:

• circular movements of the feet;
• raising on toes;
• rolls from toe to heel.

Positional therapy

Positional therapy also serves as an excellent prevention of the development of varicose veins. The recommendations will be as follows:

• you cannot cross your legs;
• when sitting on a chair, only the buttocks should touch it - it is undesirable to lean on the back;
• You need to sleep only on your left side, placing a pillow under your stomach - this position helps reduce the pressure exerted by the uterus on the vessels located behind the peritoneum, which improves the outflow of blood from the legs.

Important! In addition, sleeping on the left side helps to avoid the development of uterine hypertonicity.

Avoid triggers

Factors that provoke the development of varicose veins include:

• Compression of the iliac veins by the enlarged uterus. This impairs the outflow of venous blood. In the last months of pregnancy, it can cause pathological dilatation of the veins of the vulva.
• Predisposition at the genetic level. Heredity is one of the main reasons for the development of pathology.
• Changes in hormonal levels. The increase in progesterone levels that occurs during pregnancy causes a decrease in the tone of the venous wall and its stretching.
• Increased pelvic blood flow. During gestation there is an increase in uterine blood flow, which leads to increased pressure in the venous system of the pelvis. The result is a violation of the outflow of blood from the legs.

Unfortunately, a woman is not able to control the development of many factors that provoke varicose veins, since they are determined by physiology. But she is able to give herself daily physical activity, giving up a sedentary lifestyle. After all, frequent lying in a horizontal position and restriction of movements is perhaps the most important factor in the formation of varicose veins. Stagnation of venous blood causes pathological dilatation of blood vessels.

It is necessary to strictly monitor your weight, since extra pounds have a very negative impact on the condition of the veins.

Clothes and shoes

To reduce the load on the veins, you need to wear comfortable shoes. Shoes should have a small - no higher than 5 cm - stable heel. Complete refusal and wearing, for example, “ballet shoes,” significantly increases the pressure on the heels, and spider veins can form in the popliteal area.

Clothes should be made from breathable fabrics and not restrict movement. Any tightening in the abdominal area is strictly prohibited. Gynecologists recommend that women use a special prenatal bandage, sometimes even in the early stages.

An important point is wearing compression stockings ( anti-varicose tights will cause compression of the pregnant uterus). The phlebologist observing the woman should select therapeutic knitwear, since only a specialist can calculate the required degree of compression, taking into account the current clinical picture and stage of the disease.

Baths and showers

Taking a contrast shower gives a good therapeutic result. Alternating comfortably cool and warm water becomes an accessible means of preventing the development of varicose veins during pregnancy. The procedure helps to increase vascular tone and prevents stagnation of venous blood. But too much temperature contrast can trigger uterine contractions.

An alternative to a contrast shower would be a home remedy such as contrast baths with sea salt or herbal infusions.

Massage

Spreading your legs improves local blood flow and prevents varicose veins. Movements should be directed from bottom to top. To enhance therapeutic effect When initial symptoms are detected, it is allowed to use anti-varicose ointments, creams and gels.

Surgical treatment

Surgical methods for treating pathology during pregnancy are practiced in rare cases. The exception is a rapidly progressing condition or a complication of existing varicose veins in the form of the formation of a trophic ulcer or ascending thrombophlebitis.

Surgical treatment is allowed only during the first 6 months of gestation. A sclerotherapy procedure can also be performed.

Forecast

The prognosis for life is favorable. The course of the disease can be complicated by:

• predisposition at the genetic level;
• repeated pregnancies;
• multiple births;
• difficult childbirth;
• woman’s age (risk increases after 35 years);
• obesity;
• the presence of superficial thrombophlebitis.

The onset of gestation against the background of existing varicose veins may increase the risk of blood clots and the development of deep vein thrombophlebitis.

Modern medicine has made significant progress in the treatment of varicose veins. There are many different drugs and methods of prevention that are safe for a woman and her child, in particular, special gymnastics.

During pregnancy, this is a very common occurrence, especially among those who have already encountered this disease before or have blood relatives with a similar illness. External manifestations of pathology during pregnancy are no different from other cases. Using the example of the lower extremities: the disease looks like areas with a noticeable pattern of capillaries on the skin, the so-called spider veins, or like convex purple or bluish worms. The latter are a manifestation of the expansion of thicker main veins, which begin to emerge closer to the endothelium. Conceiving a child is, of course, a miracle, but it entails many changes in a woman’s body, because everyone’s physical capabilities and health status are different.

Varicose veins are a disease that can spread to different parts of the body: legs, arms, skin of the torso and face, and also affect internal organs, including the vagina, rectum, etc.

Pregnant women no less often encounter hemorrhoids, and this is a manifestation of varicose veins of the rectum. Trophic ulcers, bleeding and - this is an incomplete list dangerous complications diseases.

Why do varicose veins appear during pregnancy?

As the embryo grows, the amount of circulating blood in the mother’s body increases; closer to birth, the volume doubles. A gradual increase in body weight and increased pressure on the veins weaken the walls of blood vessels. In addition to this, hormonal changes lead to muscle relaxation, which negatively affects the tone of the veins. Against this background, the uterus, which becomes heavier every month, puts more and more pressure on the pelvic organs, which provokes compression of the vena cava of the lower extremities. Pregnant women in the third trimester are faced with the fact that any body position they accept becomes uncomfortable after 15-20 minutes, something becomes numb and numb. As a result, manifestations of blood stagnation are expressed in the form of distended veins and varicose veins.

In the initial period of the disease, slight deformation of blood vessels appears. Towards evening, the calves become hard, as if engorged, and the legs feel tired and heavy. A little later, night cramps are observed, although they do not always wake up from them. As the condition worsens, the legs begin not only to swell, but also to hurt after lunch, and the skin becomes itchy, worsening at night.

At the next stage of the disease, serious deformation of the veins occurs. Tubercles or entire sections of convex, intricately curved veins protrude under the skin. This is not always accompanied painful sensations, but in no case should you ignore the disease at this stage, especially if you are pregnant. After all, you see only external manifestations. What happens to the veins internal organs? Bleeding that begins but is detected late can be fatal for the mother and her baby.

Provoking factors

Not all representatives of the fair sex experience symptoms before or during pregnancy. This is good, but it is still important to know what factors provoke this disease:

• hereditary predisposition;
• excess weight before or too rapid weight gain during pregnancy;
• prolonged exposure to the sun;
• repeated and multiple pregnancies;
• gynecological diseases, such as endometriosis;
• increased production of estrogen;
• previous use of hormonal contraceptives;
• work that requires long periods of sitting or standing;
• sedentary lifestyle.

Having discovered at least one of the mentioned factors, the expectant mother should take preventive measures closely to prevent the development or worsening of varicose veins.

The disease is divided into several stages:

1. The veins are located in the lower part and do not exceed 7 mm in diameter. Spider veins appear on the skin.
2. The vessels bend and already reach 8 mm. Patients complain of swelling and pain during physical activity, which disappear after rest.
3. Veins that reach 13 mm are arranged into conglomerates of nodes; patients note constant pain, swelling of the feet and legs. Eczema and trophic ulcers that are prone to bleeding may appear on the skin.

Prevention of varicose veins in pregnant women

The expectant mother primarily cares about the health of her child, so it is important to know how dangerous the disease is. Complicated varicose veins of the uterus during pregnancy can cause placental insufficiency, miscarriage, or premature birth. Lack of nutrition over a long period of time leads to pathology of fetal development.

The diagnosis of uterine varicose veins can be made after the first Doppler ultrasound examination. However, do not panic; the disease can and should be kept under control. Naturally, you should inform your gynecologist about your predisposition factors for varicose veins. The attending physician should refer you for additional consultation to a phlebologist; you can be monitored by him throughout your pregnancy for varicose veins.

The visual absence or initial expansion of veins during pregnancy requires simple preventive measures:

Compression tights

1. To reduce the load on your feet, give preference to comfortable soft shoes with low wedges and without heels.
2. Do not wear stockings, knee socks or socks with tight elastic bands. Prophylactic 70 deniers are more comfortable to wear during this period.
3. Contrast showers and swimming are beneficial for the health of blood vessels and the entire body.
4. To reduce venous pressure on the lower extremities, it is recommended to sleep on the left side, placing low pillows under the stomach and knee.
5. Try to find a middle ground in the distribution of your motor activity so that the time spent in a standing, sitting and lying position approximately coincides and alternates.
6. Make it a habit to sit on the edge of the table to minimize the pressure on the vena cava in your legs.
7. Do not sit with your legs crossed - this is a direct way to worsen varicose veins in pregnant women.
8. To prevent constipation, watch your diet and fluid intake. Every day it is recommended to drink at least 1.5-2 liters of liquid: pure or mineral water, green tea, fruit juice etc. In addition, to normalize stool, it is important to consume bran, oatmeal, as well as vegetables and fruits containing a large number of fiber: cabbage, carrots, apples, etc.

A set of exercises for varicose veins

What to do if varicose veins progress during pregnancy? Start training your blood vessels. Here are some simple and accessible exercises for everyone:

Exercises for varicose veins for pregnant women

1. Sit on a chair, bend your knees, arms along your body. Stand up as you inhale, sit down as you exhale.
2. Stand with your feet shoulder-width apart. Leaning your body to the side, begin to alternately bend your knees without lifting your feet off the floor.
3. Starting position: standing, arms down, legs hip-width apart. As you inhale, raise your arms, as you exhale, lower them, then move your left leg forward and place your right foot next to it. Repeat the same with your right leg.
4. Starting position: sitting on a chair. Make circular movements with your feet without lifting your heels off the floor.
5. Stand up straight, then rise on your toes, stand for 10 seconds and lower on your heels.
6. Walk around the apartment a few meters on tiptoe. Alternatively, walk on your heels, on the outside and inside of your feet.
7. Sit on a chair, knees together, feet on the floor. Place your feet on your heels, and then lower them back to the floor.
8. While sitting on a chair, do the opposite exercise: raise your feet on your toes, lifting your heels off the floor.
9. Starting position: standing. As you inhale, raise your arms and stand on your toes. As you exhale, lower your arms and press your feet to the floor, slightly bending your knees.
10. Standing or lying on your back (whichever is more comfortable), extend one leg forward and rotate first the foot, and then the lower leg and the entire limb.
11. For a general tonic effect and lifting your mood, dance to pleasant music at least once a day.

Repeat the exercise complex 5-15 times every day.

Varicose veins in pregnant women are not a death sentence; you need to treat the disease as one of the characteristics of the body during this period. Observe the manifestations of the disease, consult a phlebologist and follow his recommendations. If the pathology begins to worsen, the doctor will recommend additional measures to combat varicose veins veins

Treatment of the disease

How to treat varicose veins during pregnancy? Women who have long been familiar with this problem understand that bearing a child negatively affects the condition of blood vessels. Treatment of varicose veins during pregnancy is possible, but when choosing medications, the doctor must take into account your situation. Along with taking medications, you must:

1. Constantly monitor your weight gain to prevent uneven fluctuations. Buy a good home scale; it will come in handy not only for you; it will help you keep track of how quickly your baby is gaining weight.
2. Avoid carrying heavy objects: do not lift older children, do not carry heavy grocery bags, etc.
3. From the second trimester of pregnancy, wear a special prenatal bandage. It helps distribute the load and slightly relieves pressure on the pelvic organs.
4. Take a warm bath, but never a hot one.
5. If possible, lie down every 3 hours during the day and keep your legs elevated on pillows. If it is comfortable for you, then try to raise the foot end of the bed by 10-15 cm.
6. Together with your phlebologist, select special therapeutic compression socks and tights with a density of 100, 140 or 280 denier. This underwear creates different pressure on the lower limbs. Maximum contraction is observed from the feet to the middle of the calf. Further it decreases and already above the knees it becomes equal to 40%. By applying pressure to the veins, compression garments promote normal blood flow, preventing blood stagnation. It is important to put it on in the morning, before getting out of bed, and take it off right before bed. Only in this case will such underwear be truly effective. It may be unusual at first, but you should be reassured that discomfort is nothing compared to reducing the risk of formation. By the way, we used elastic bandages before, but they are clearly visible even under thick tights. Although the choice is yours. If the condition of varicose veins worsens during pregnancy, you can agree with your doctor that you will not remove the elastic bandages during childbirth.

It is impossible to cure the disease at stages 2-3 without medications. To alleviate the condition and slow down the development of pathology, the doctor may prescribe a course of complex therapy using:

Detralex

1. Tablet phlebotonics (Detralex, Ginkor-forte, Aescusan, Phlebodia 600).
2. Local gels based on troxerutin (Troxevasin, Troxegel, Troxerutin) and heparin (Heparin ointment, Lyoton-1000, Gepatrombin, Trombless, Viatromb, Venolife).
3. Disaggregants (Curantil).
4. Special compression socks and tights.

After childbirth, the condition of the veins may worsen. Many breastfeeding women encounter not only varicose veins on their legs, but also hemorrhoids, which are a sign of the same disease, only on the veins of the rectum. The period after the birth of a baby and breastfeeding are also accompanied by hormonal changes in the body. For this reason, you should not immediately agree to surgical treatment. Wait a few months and continue conservative medication therapy under the supervision of your doctor. If after 6-8 months the health condition does not return to normal, then you should think about surgery.

Varicose veins and pregnancy with qualified medical assistance are quite compatible. Naturally, expectant mothers cannot take some medications, but with the medications available to them, they can improve their well-being.

But if a patient with varicose veins felt severe pain, she has weakness, elevated temperature body, heart rate increases or shortness of breath appears, you should immediately call an ambulance.

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