It is estimated that one in five pregnant women has problems with varicose veins, and studies show that each subsequent pregnancy further increases the risk of developing this condition.
In some women, varicose veins may only appear during pregnancy, while others may have had vein problems before pregnancy, but the condition worsens during pregnancy. Varicose veins most often occur in the second and third trimesters of pregnancy or during the second and third pregnancies. The occurrence of varicose veins in this period in women is due to a combination of hormonal influence and pressure exerted by the fetus on the pelvis. Most pregnant women do not require additional therapies, with the most common recommendation being the use of compression stockings.
In most cases, varicose veins during pregnancy are not dangerous; however, there is a small percentage of women with a certain genetic predisposition in whom blood clots can form.
Symptoms of a clot can manifest as heavy, painful, and swollen legs. Also, there may be the appearance of red nodules on the skin surface. If the clot is near the surface, it is not a big problem; however, the problem becomes serious if the blood clot is in the deep veins. In this case, intensive collaboration with a doctor is required, as well as undergoing ultrasound examinations for further treatment..
If the problem with varicose veins persists after pregnancy, there are several methods that can resolve this condition. If the veins remain visible and painful several months after pregnancy, it is necessary to consult with a vascular surgeon about further steps and the type of procedure that would be most effective and comfortable for the patient. It is recommended that the patient undergo minimally invasive methods so that the recovery time is as short as possible.