The effects of pregnancy on your feet

There are so many changes the body undergoes during pregnancy that it becomes easy to ignore the changes in the feet. During pregnancy the body releases hormones that allow the ligaments to relax in the birth canal. The ligaments in the feet also relax, causing the foot to lengthen and widen. Many will complain of a shoe size increase by one or two sizes. In most circumstances, this flattening and widening of the foot is benign and no problems result.

Water retention is also common during pregnancy, which can add to the swelling where the foot can sometimes turn a purple or blue colour.

The effects of pregnancy on your feet

Many women suffer from foot problems during their pregnancy, due to extra pressure exerted on to the feet by weight gain. The most common foot conditions amongst pregnant women are:

* Over Pronation / Flat Feet

* Edema

* Leg Cramps

* Varicose Veins

Prevention & treatment

* Try to elevate your feet as often as you can

* Don't walk around barefoot: Wear a supportive shoe, one that has a rigid sole and bends only where the foot bends (at the toes)

* Wear shoes and socks that are spacious and do not constrict the feet

* Dry your feet and between toes after showers: Increased moisture between your toes can lead to skin breakdown and eventual ulceration

* Have your feet measured regularly throughout your pregnancy to account for size alterations

* If sitting or driving for long periods, make sure you stand and walk about occasionally to aid circulation

* Exercise regularly to improve your circulation

* Keep your body hydrated by drinking approximately 8 glasses of water each day - Strangely enough this prevents water retention

* Avoid foods high in salt, which tend to promote water retention.

Swelling is usually the same in both feet. If one foot seems worse than the other this may be a sign of a vascular problem and you should get medical advice as soon as possible.


Though personally, I've never been "with child," from what I hear, it can wreak havoc on your feet.

Swollen feet, increased sweating, hormonal changes, and back and leg aches are a few of the bodily changes you might experience -- and all of these can affect your feet, and consequently the shoes you are able to wear while you're pregnant.
What Pregnant Women Should Look for in Shoes

* Flats, or low, wide heels - around 2" or lower.
* Good arch support. This can be accomplish through buying from noted comfort shoe brands, or by using an insert that adds arch support.
* Breathable uppers (canvas or leather) that won't trap moisture.
* Shoes that slip-on, as laces may become more difficult to tie.
* Larger or wider shoes -- swelling may make your regular size and width uncomfortable.

Additional Tips for Foot Care During Pregnancy

* Wearing socks with closed-toe shoes may increase your comfort.
* Avoid standing for long periods without a rest.
* Elevate legs when possible, and if your feet are feeling extra achy, try soaking them.

Cute Flats

Pregnant or not, we could all benefit from wearing more flats. But for many of us, the trick is in finding the cute ones. Add needing a wide width to the equation, and the task becomes nearly impossible -- the keyword, being "nearly."