Varicose Vein and Pregnancy: Is There a Treatment for Painful Leg Veins While You Are Pregnant?

Varicose veins are a common problem encountered during pregnancy. In fact, the more pregnancies a woman has, the higher her risk is for developing varicose veins in the legs. Heredity is a major factor in the development venous disease, but the constant hormonal changes associated with pregnancy can also cause the leg veins to enlarge resulting in tenderness and sensitivity. Restless leg syndrome (RLS) is also a recognized problem associated with these veins of pregnancy.

It used to be thought that the weight of the pregnant uterus caused pressure on the veins in the abdomen, leading to painful leg veins. In fact, varicose veins tend to develop early in the second trimester, before the baby is large enough to cause pressure in the pelvic area.

While VNUS Closure or ClariVein are very suitable and successful options to treat varicose veins, these cannot be done safely while you are pregnant.

The best options for women with painful leg veins while still carrying the baby to term is to use medical grade support hose, elevate the legs when able, and limit weight gain. The support hose that are available include knee high, thigh high, and maternity. In addition, for those with painful labial veins, a V-2 compression garment can alleviate symptoms very nicely.

Fortunately, after you deliver the baby, many of these large veins will recede rather quickly, though the underlying risk for vein problems still exists. This is the ideal time to seek evaluation at an experienced vein center so that testing and treatment can limit the chance of developing vein complications.