5 min read
BY LAUREN BRENTON | Clinical Midwifery Specialist | Childbirth Educator |
As a midwife and mum of 4, I find most families will focus all their energy and attention on the birth and very little onto the postpartum period. This can often leave families unsure and confused about the changes their body is going through at this time.
One of these common concerns is swollen legs and feet in the postpartum period. Sometimes it can make you feel like you're lugging around a pair of water balloons instead of feet. But why does this happen, and what can you do about it?
Why Do Feet Swell Postpartum?
Postpartum swelling, also known as oedema, is quite common. Here are a few reasons why it happens:
1. Fluid Retention
During pregnancy, your body retains more fluids to support your growing baby. After delivery, your body needs time to get rid of this extra fluid, which can result in swelling in your feet and ankles. This fluid will eventually be removed by the body as sweat (bring on the postpartum sweats) or you will urinate it out.
2. Hormonal Changes
Hormones are a big part of swelling after birth. The drop in progesterone levels after birth can cause your body to hold onto fluid, contributing to swelling.
3. Physical Stress
Labour and birth put a lot of physical stress on your body. Whether you had a vaginal birth or a C-section, your body has gone through a lot, and it needs time to recover.
4. Reduced Activity
After you have a baby, your focus is on rest and recovery rather than exercise. This often means that we aren’t moving around as much as we usually would. Reduced physical activity can lead to poor circulation, which can cause swelling in your feet and ankles.
What Are Some Solutions for Postpartum Swollen Feet?
Thankfully, there are several ways to manage and reduce swelling so you can get back on your feet—literally. Like you would for any injury, always follow the RICE acronym – Rest, Ice, Compression, Elevate.
1. Rest
Gently balance rest and movement, aiming for recovery rather than exercise. It is important not to push yourself during the postpartum period, to allow your body to heal. Going on a nice evening walk could be a great way to get some exercise in but also help you heal.
2. Ice
When resting apply ice intermittently for around 15 minutes every 2-3 hours to help reduce swelling in your feet and legs.
3. Compression
Use TheRY Group Compression socks or tights (or both) to help you reduce swelling. They work by applying gentle pressure to your legs, helping to improve blood flow and reduce swelling. TheRY Group's compression socks are designed with new mamas in mind, offering the perfect blend of comfort and effectiveness.
4. Elevate
This means raising your swollen legs or feet above the level of your heart. This will reduce the swelling as well as any throbbing or pain from the swelling as well. You might use pillows when in bed or on the couch to prop your legs up higher than your heart.
5. Hydrate
Another thing that you can do that can help improve swelling is staying hydrated. It might seem counterintuitive, but drinking plenty of water can help your body flush out excess fluids. Drinking lots of water will help your body urinate out the excess fluid and reduce fluid retention.
Why Choose TheRY Group Compression Socks?
TheRY Group compression socks are made from high-quality, breathable materials that keep your feet comfortable all day long. These socks provide graduated compression, which means the pressure is highest at the ankle and gradually decreases up the leg. Therefore, promoting better circulation and helping to reduce swelling more effectively.
Plus, who says compression socks have to be boring? TheRY Group offers a variety of stylish designs so you can feel good about what you’re wearing, even when you're lounging at home.
Final Thoughts.
I wore TheRY Group compression socks after the birth of my fourth baby and I noticed a massive difference in the reduction in swelling and the improvement in comfort.
Postpartum swollen feet can be a real hassle, but with the right approach, you can easily manage the swelling and get back to enjoying life with your family. Remember to stay hydrated, elevate your feet, balance moving around with rest, and try compression socks from TheRY Group. So that you can take a step toward feeling like yourself again.
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Written by Lauren Brenton
Endorsed Midwife
Founder, One Mama Midwife
