How to relieve edema in the late stages of pregnancy
Nov 11, 2024
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Zhang Lu
Introduction
In general, edema in the late stages of pregnancy can be alleviated through lifestyle adjustments, dietary modifications, moderate exercise, foot soaking, and leg massages. Pregnant women in their third trimester should also closely monitor fetal movements, attend regular prenatal checkups, track blood pressure and blood glucose levels, prepare for childbirth, and seek medical attention promptly if abnormal fetal movements occur, to ensure the health of both mother and baby.
In general, edema in the late stages of pregnancy can be alleviated through adjustments to lifestyle habits, diet, moderate exercise, foot soaking, and leg massage.
1. Adjust lifestyle habits: Edema in late pregnancy is primarily caused by the uterus compressing the inferior vena cava, which hinders blood return. Pregnant women should ensure adequate rest and preferably lie on their left side while resting. This can reduce the pressure of the uterus on the inferior vena cava and promote smoother blood return.
2. Adjust diet: Reduce salt intake, as excessive salt can cause the body to retain more water, worsening edema. It is recommended to avoid pickled foods and consume more fresh fruits and vegetables rich in vitamins and minerals to help promote sodium excretion and reduce edema.
3. Engage in moderate exercise: Appropriate physical activity can improve blood circulation and reduce edema. Activities such as walking and yoga can relax leg muscles and alleviate swelling.
4. Foot soaking: When the feet are soaked in hot water, the blood vessels in the feet dilate, improving blood flow and helping to enhance circulation throughout the lower limbs, thus reducing edema.
5. Leg massage: Pregnant women can ask family members to assist with leg massages, gently massaging from the ankle upward to the thigh with moderate pressure to help promote leg blood circulation.
In the later stages of pregnancy, expectant mothers should also closely monitor fetal movement, attend regular prenatal checkups, monitor indicators such as blood pressure and blood sugar, prepare for childbirth, and seek medical attention promptly if abnormal fetal movement occurs, to ensure the health of both mother and baby.
