1. Keep off Your Feet
Edema, or swelling caused by excess fluid in the body's tissues, is very common for most women in the later stages of pregnancy. While it may not be totally preventable in all cases, one of the ways to reduce the amount of prenatal swelling is to avoid prolonged standing and walking. When you stand for a long time, the blood and fluids accumulate in your legs and feet, causing them to become puffy and sore. When you are at work, try putting your feet up on a box or footrest. When possible, sitting and lying down are definitely the best positions to take, because they keep the fluids from accumulating solely in your ankles and feet. Doctors even recommend elevating your feet above your heart while you sit or sleep. When you do have to stand, remember to wear comfortable shoes. Your doctor may also suggest the use of compression stockings or socks to alleviate swelling in the legs.
2. Reduce Your Salt Intake
A lot of your prenatal edema is related to a natural increase in fluid and a decreased flow of blood to your legs as your uterus puts pressure on the vena cava, a major blood vessel connecting the legs and heart. Consuming too much salt, whether you are pregnant or not, can also cause your body to retain extra water. Cutting back your salt intake to a normal level can reduce your amount of fluid retention and also the amount of swelling you experience. However, don't restrict your salt intake severely, as this can actually cause edema to worsen.
3. Drink More Water
As counterintuitive as it seems, drinking more water can help flush out your system and decrease the amount of water retention in your body and the swelling in your legs, feet and face. The Institute of Medicine recommends that pregnant women drink roughly 10 glasses of water a day to provide complete hydration and to lessen the effects of edema.
4. Stay Cool
Swelling during pregnancy tends to be at its worst during the hot summer months. Avoid the heat as much as possible, including hot baths, showers and hot tubs. In addition, be sure to wear plenty of sunscreen when you go out--getting a sunburn will only exacerbate your edema symptoms.
