Everything You Need To Know About Maternity and Compression Socks
Sigvaris
01-16-2023
Everything You Need To Know About Maternity and Compression Socks
...and why you might want to try it.
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Maternity and Compression Socks & Stockings
Be proactive. Buy at least one pair of high quality, comfortable compression socks during your first trimester. Go ahead and start wearing them as early as you'd like. You'll find them beneficial at any stage to:
- Reduce swelling
- Reduce risk of varicose veins
- Reduce risk of DVT
- Improve blood circulation
What happens to the body during pregnancy?
During pregnancy, your body is holding 50% more fluids than normal. Swelling caused by those additional fluids can be quite uncomfortable and can result in swollen feet or ankles.
Pregnancy also increases your chance of developing varicose veins. This condition occurs when small valves inside your veins stop working properly, leading to decreased circulation and blood pooling. This results in veins that appear enlarged, darker in color, and are more noticeable under the skin.
Why is compression important during pregnancy?
Compression during pregnancy is essential for many reasons. Eliminating some of the pressure you’re experiencing can greatly improve your comfort levels and prevent issues down the line. If you’re having or planning on having multiple pregnancies, it’s also a good idea to take as many preventative measures as possible so any issues aren’t compounded down the road. Here are the main reasons why compression is so important during pregnancy:
For comfort
The swelling that most women experience during pregnancy is uncomfortable. It can also lead to cramps, itching, burning, or other types of pain. Wearing compression is one of the best ways to stay comfortable throughout the duration of your pregnancy.
For support
The support you receive when you have the right amount of compression can make pregnancy more comfortable for you, as well as regulate blood circulation. Many women feel a need for this kind of support, especially at the calves and ankles.
For veins
Not only are varicose veins undesirable from an aesthetic standpoint, but they are also the cause of a lot of the pain mentioned above. Wearing medical grade compression is an effective way of treating and preventing varicose veins for pregnant women and anyone else who is prone to the condition.
For prevention
Changing hormone levels during pregnancy can make you more susceptible to blood clots, but the proper level of compression can help prevent clotting.
Why is compression important during pregnancy?
Wearing graduated compression during your pregnancy can help improve feelings of leg discomfort you may experience. This should be an enjoyable time so it's important to feel well!
Here are the main reasons why compression is so important during pregnancy:
For comfort
The swelling (known as edema) during pregnancy is uncomfortable to say the least. It can also lead to cramps, itching, burning, or other types of pain. Wearing compression socks during pregnancy is one of the best ways to stay comfortable throughout this time.
For support
The support you receive when you have the right level of compression can make pregnancy more comfortable for you, as well as help to improve circulation. This will give you a boost in energy so you can continue to do the things you've always done.
For veins
No one wants varicose veins, but pregnancy can increase the risk of developing them. They can be uncomfortable, too. Wearing medical grade compression is an effective way of helping to prevent varicose veins from developing as a result of pregnancy conditions.
Support the walls of your veins from bulging due to decreased ability to move blood back to the heart. Compression socks help the valves move the blood more effectively in that direction.
For prevention
Changing hormone levels during pregnancy can make you more susceptible to blood clots, but the proper level of compression can help prevent clotting and help to protect you from a DVT event.
Does everyone need to wear compression while pregnant?
The short answer
The short answer: no. Not everyone will find it absolutely necessary to wear compression during their whole pregnancy. People with preexisting conditions will benefit the most from wearing compression, and it will likely be recommended to them by their doctor. However there is a lot of evidence that pretty much everyone will benefit when they wear compression during their pregnancy, even as early as the first trimester. This compression can come in the form of socks, pantyhose, leggings, or belly bands.
Start wearing compression early
Even if you don’t feel the need for compression right away, it’s a good idea to start wearing compression early to prevent any issues. Many women don’t get their first varicose veins until the fourth month of pregnancy, so wearing compression early can help prevent that.
Be prepared
In other words, you should consider having compression on hand for when you need it. If you just found out you’re expecting, stock up now so you're prepared. You’ll thank yourself later, when you don't feel like shopping.
Compression is recommended for
the management of swelling
Compression is also recommended to be worn for several weeks postpartum to ease swelling. It can help move excess fluids along so you'll recover faster and feel more comfortable. Keep your compression socks and stockings on hand for up to six weeks postpartum.
Which styles of compression socks are best for maternity?
Think about what you like to wear when you're not pregnant. Knee-highs are the shortest you should go, but thigh highs work just as well. Looking for belly support too? Try pantyhose marked "maternity" or "plus".
If you’re looking for an open-toe option, the Sheer Calf Open-Toe hosiery offers fashionable sheerness you can feel comfortable in, making it ideal for dress and professional wear.
Style Soft Opaque Maternity Pantyhose
Specifically designed for maternity, Soft Opaque Maternity Pantyhose offer you full-length compression. Complete opaqueness in this garment also comes in a fashionable black.
Essential Opaque Pantyhose (Plus/Maternity)
If you need an everyday option for high waisted compression, then Essential Opaque Pantyhose is great to have on hand. Since it comes in both light beige and black, it can be worn for a variety of occasions, and offers medical grade compression at 20-30mmHg. The plus sizes are designed to work for maternity as well as those needing extra room in the midsection.
All of our socks and stockings are effective for a maternity lifestyle. They don't have to be labeled for maternity, they just need to fit.
Always opt for medical grade compression from a trusted manufacturer to receive the true compression claimed on the label for best results.
Manufacturers of medical devices are regulated and must adhere to strict quality, performance, and safety standards.
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