How to Deal With Spider Veins During Pregnancy

You glance down at your legs and see them—spider veins, those little, visible red blood vessels with jagged lines branching out (so, yep, they look kind of like spiders right under your skin). They’re common on the legs and face, especially during pregnancy. So what’s the deal with spider veins, and how do you get rid of them?

What Causes Spider Veins During Pregnancy?

You’ve got more blood circulating through your veins now that you’re pregnant. Plus, your hormones have changed, causing a backup of blood in your veins. They might be painful or uncomfortable for you, but good news—they shouldn’t affect baby.

Spider veins are sometimes confused with varicose veins, which are swollen veins that usually look larger than spider veins.

How To Treat Spider Veins During Pregnancy

Your doctor will probably examine your spider veins to diagnose them. You might try wearing compression hose, which can encourage circulation in your legs. Some moms-to-be find that getting plenty of vitamin C and resisting the urge to cross your legs can help get rid of spider veins. Luckily, the spider veins will probably go away post-pregnancy.

To prevent spider veins from popping up in the first place, try getting plenty of vitamin C and not crossing your legs. Exercising, elevating your legs while you’re sitting and switching from sitting to standing can all help encourage circulation, which may help prevent spider veins during pregnancy.

What Other Moms-To-Be Do For Spider Veins

“I have spider veins on my right leg only and only from the knee to ankle. My OB said they’ll go away after birth (and I want to believe him). He has me wrapping the leg in an Ace bandage to alleviate any pressure.”

“They just keep popping up on my thighs overnight! And they hurt! I’m a healthy weight and I exercise often, so that’s not it, but I do wear heels and sit on my crossed legs a lot.”

“I had a small amount after my third DD. They went away for me. My doctor said to add about 30 minutes of exercise daily and to wear maternity hose.”

Please note: The Bump and the materials and information it contains are not intended to, and do not constitute, medical or other health advice or diagnosis and should not be used as such. You should always consult with a qualified physician or health professional about your specific circumstances.

Plus, more from The Bump:

Varicose Veins During Pregnancy

Skin Changes During Pregnancy

Things They Really Should Tell You About Before You Get Pregnant