Compression socks for pregnancy: beyond basic maternity
Pregnancy brings major changes to your body—and your circulation. While many people think of compression socks as a basic maternity accessory, the reality is that compression during pregnancy can serve very different needs depending on trimester, symptoms, and daily activity.
This guide goes beyond generic maternity advice to help you understand when, why, and how compression socks are commonly used during pregnancy, and what to consider before choosing a pair.
Important: This article is for general educational purposes only and does not provide medical advice. Always consult your healthcare provider before using compression socks during pregnancy, especially if you have medical conditions or complications.
Why pregnancy affects circulation and leg comfort
During pregnancy, several factors can affect blood flow and leg comfort:
- Increased blood volume
- Hormonal changes that relax vein walls
- Pressure from the growing uterus on pelvic veins
- Reduced venous return from the legs
These changes can contribute to leg heaviness, swelling, visible veins, and fatigue, especially in the second and third trimesters.
What compression socks are commonly used for during pregnancy
Compression socks are often used during pregnancy to help support circulation and leg comfort. They are commonly worn to address:
Mild to moderate leg swelling (edema)
Feelings of heaviness or fatigue in the legs
Visible veins or vein discomfort
Long periods of standing or sitting
Travel during pregnancy
Compression levels commonly used during pregnancy
8-15mmHg
Light compression
Commonly used for:
- Early pregnancy
- Mild leg fatigue
- Travel or occasional swelling
- First-time compression wearers¹
This level offers gentle support and is often chosen for comfort.
15-20mmHg
Moderate compression
Commonly used for:
- Ongoing pregnancy-related swelling
- Leg heaviness or aching
- Standing or active daily routines
- Varicose vein discomfort
This is the most commonly worn compression level during pregnancy, as it balances effectiveness and comfort for daily wear.
Medical note: Compression level selection should always be discussed with a healthcare provider during pregnancy.²³
20-30mmHg
Firm compression
Sometimes used for:
- More pronounced swelling
- Significant venous symptoms
- Prior history of venous issues
Medical note: This level is often recommended only under medical supervision during pregnancy and should not be self-selected.²⁴
Compression socks by trimester: what changes over time
First trimester
- Symptoms are often mild
- Light compression may be sufficient
- Focus on comfort and prevention
Second trimester
- Swelling and leg heaviness may increase
- Moderate compression is commonly introduced
- Fit and sizing become more important as the body changes
Third trimester
- Swelling is often more pronounced
- Daily compression wear is more common
- Ease of putting socks on becomes a key consideration
Fit considerations during pregnancy
Proper fit is essential for safe and effective compression.
Fit matters as much as compression level
Following a guide on how to measure your legs for compression socks can help ensure comfort and effectiveness as your body changes.⁴
Important: Ill-fitting compression garments may be uncomfortable or ineffective and should not be worn.
Helpful tips:
- Measure legs earlier in the day when swelling is minimal
How to measure for compression socks
- Re-measure as pregnancy progresses
- Choose styles designed for comfort at the calf and ankle
- Avoid socks that dig in or roll down
Fit considerations during pregnancy
Proper fit is essential for safe and effective compression.
Fit matters as much as compression level
Following a guide on how to measure your legs for compression socks can help ensure comfort and effectiveness as your body changes.⁴
Important: Ill-fitting compression garments may be uncomfortable or ineffective and should not be worn.
Helpful tips:
- Measure legs earlier in the day when swelling is minimal
How to measure for compression socks
- Re-measure as pregnancy progresses
- Choose styles designed for comfort at the calf and ankle
- Avoid socks that dig in or roll down
When compression socks are especially helpful during pregnancy
Compression is commonly considered during pregnancy if you:
Stand or sit for long periods
Work in healthcare, education, or retail
Travel frequently or take long flights
Experience end-of-day leg swelling
Have visible veins or vein discomfort
Common myths about
compression socks and pregnancy
“Compression socks are only for late pregnancy.”
Not true. Many people begin wearing compression earlier, depending on symptoms.
“Higher compression works better during pregnancy.”
Not necessarily. The goal is the lowest effective compression level, not the strongest.
“Any sock labeled ‘maternity’ is sufficient.”
Compression level, fit, and quality matter more than the label.
Common myths about compression socks and pregnancy
“Compression socks are only for late pregnancy.”
Not true. Many people begin wearing compression earlier, depending on symptoms.
“Higher compression works better during pregnancy.”
Not necessarily. The goal is the lowest effective compression level, not the strongest.
“Any sock labeled ‘maternity’ is sufficient.”
Compression level, fit, and quality matter more than the label.
When you
should talk to
a healthcare professional
Always consult your provider before using compression socks during pregnancy if you:
- Have high blood pressure or preeclampsia
- Have diabetes or circulatory conditions
- Experience sudden or severe swelling
- Have a history of blood clots
- Are unsure which compression level is appropriate
Final takeaway
Compression socks during pregnancy are not one-size-fits-all. Needs can change by trimester, activity level, and individual symptoms. When chosen thoughtfully and with healthcare guidance, compression socks may help support leg comfort throughout pregnancy.
Always consult your healthcare provider to determine whether compression is appropriate for you and which level is best for your situation.
References & sources
1. Cleveland Clinic. Compression Therapy: Types and Benefits.
https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/treatments/23449-compression-therapy
2. Mayo Clinic. Edema During Pregnancy:
https://www.mayoclinic.org/healthy-lifestyle/pregnancy-week-by-week/expert-answers/swelling-during-pregnancy/faq-20057825
3. Mayo Clinic. Varicose Veins During Pregnancy:
https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/varicose-veins/in-depth/varicose-veins-during-pregnancy/art-20364233
4. Mayo Clinic News Network. Tips for Using Compression Stockings:
https://newsnetwork.mayoclinic.org/discussion/mayo-clinic-q-and-a-tips-for-using-compression-stockings/
5. American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG). Swelling During Pregnancy:
https://www.acog.org/womens-health/faqs/swelling-during-pregnancy
6. Cleveland Clinic. Pregnancy and Blood Clots:
https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/17810-pregnancy-and-blood-clots
7. Partsch H, et al. Graduated Compression Stockings.
Journal of Vascular Surgery: Venous and Lymphatic Disorders:
https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC4081237/
Medical disclaimer: This content is provided for general educational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Compression therapy during pregnancy should always be discussed with a qualified healthcare professional.