How To Prevent Fluid Retention In Pregnancy?

Faced with fluid retention during pregnancy, we can apply several strategies, such as opening ourselves to a diet based on the right fruits and vegetables, exercising, and adopting appropriate positions. Find out more here.

Fluid retention in pregnancy and swollen legs are part of the process of conceiving a new life. It begins in the third month of pregnancy, but worsens throughout the third trimester of pregnancy. You could say that it is an annoying “side effect” of pregnancy.

The main cause of swollen legs during pregnancy is fluid retention, but it is not the only one. The pressure exerted on the pelvic area by the growing baby falls on the veins that carry blood to the legs. Also, it slows down circulation, causing the legs to swell.

Hormonal changes also cause fluid retention in pregnancy, as fluids accumulate in the spaces between soft tissue cells. It is possible to alleviate this swelling or edema with resources that we have at home.  However, it is always important that your doctor evaluate the characteristics of the edema.

Solutions for fluid retention in pregnancy

Stay well hydrated

Water is the best natural diuretic a pregnant woman can take. By drinking more water, you are telling your body to eliminate excess fluids present in the tissues. The consumption of water should replace the intake of soft drinks, sugary drinks and coffee.

Control your salt intake

Salt is a necessary mineral, as it helps the pregnant woman. But its consumption must be controlled, especially in the third quarter. Therefore, avoid highly processed foods, as they have a lot of added salt.

move on

Unless you have an express indication to rest, it  is important that you maintain simple exercise routines during pregnancy. Walk daily for at least half an hour. Avoid standing or sitting for a long time. The movement circulates the blood and the edema should subside.

Legs up and to the side

Lie down and raise your legs. In 20 minutes the swelling should go down. Also, when you go to sleep, you should lie on your left side. In this way, you will not put pressure on the vena cava that carries circulation to the legs. Also use a pillow between your legs.

Watch your clothes

Tight pants or shoes are not favorable when you have fluid retention. Ask your doctor if you can wear compression stockings. In some cases, they notably relieve edema by promoting fluid drainage.

Cold and lukewarm showers

If you alternate cold and warm showers on your swollen legs, you will feel great relief. It is not recommended that the pregnant woman use hot water, since the edema could be complicated.

Alternative therapies

Consult with your doctor about resorting to reflexology or lymphatic drainage sessions. They are proven and natural massages that improve circulation and facilitate the drainage of fluids into the ganglion system. If you opt for these options, look for a good professional; and if you have experience with pregnant women, much better.

How can you help with eating?

Caution must be exercised with diuretics at this stage, as what protects the baby is a liquid environment. However, when you begin to suffer from fluid retention in pregnancy, you can include foods in the diet that, due to their mineral components, help reduce this discomfort.

Nature offers fruits and vegetables that are ideal for relieving edema in pregnant women, such as watermelon, orange, pineapple, papaya, apple, melon, blueberries, beets, cucumber, celery, parsley, tomatoes and green leafy vegetables such as spinach , romaine lettuce and kale.

Juices or smoothies enhance the diuretic effects of vegetables and fruits, as they facilitate the digestion of minerals. Creativity has no limits to create healthy and palatable proposals. Sweeten them preferably with honey, brown sugar or muscabada.

Infusions: Care

Aromatic and medicinal herbs have enormous properties, but you  have to know which ones are indicated during pregnancy. This is because some can generate contractions in the uterus, which it is better to avoid if the time has not come.

Among the herbs suitable to consume during pregnancy are: dandelion, raspberry and corn whiskers . A tablespoon of the selected herb (or a mixture of these) is boiled for two or three minutes in a glass of water. Let it rest for ten minutes and strain. You can take up to twice a day.

If another herbal infusion is recommended, it is best to consult with your doctor or midwife before ingesting it. For example: infusions of juniper berries, buchu, horsetail and winter horsetail are recognized for their diuretic properties, but are contraindicated during pregnancy because they cause uterine contractions.

Conclution

Fluid retention in pregnancy and the consequent swollen legs are part of the process that a woman’s body goes through during pregnancy. With a good diet, an exercise routine, and these simple tips, you may find the relief you need.