About Us | Privacy | Site Map
May 24, 2013
Font Size
A
A
A

Swelling During Pregnancy


Topic Overview

Some mild swelling during pregnancy may occur because of normal fluid buildup. Swelling is most likely to be noticeable in your face, hands, or feet. As your pregnancy progresses, your uterus puts pressure on the circulation to your legs and may cause swelling in your feet and ankles. Normally, foot swelling gets worse during the day and goes away at night. Symptoms may develop gradually or suddenly.

If swelling of your face and hands does not go away during the day, this may be a sign of preeclampsia. Preeclampsia is more likely when new swelling of your face, hands, or feet begins suddenly and you have a sudden weight gain of more than 2 lb (0.9 kg) over a 24-hour period during your third trimester, particularly if your blood pressure is high.

Related Information

Credits

ByHealthwise Staff
Primary Medical ReviewerWilliam H. Blahd, Jr., MD, FACEP - Emergency Medicine
Specialist Medical ReviewerDavid Messenger, MD
Last RevisedJune 26, 2010

eMedicineHealth Medical Reference from Healthwise

This information does not replace the advice of a doctor. Healthwise disclaims any warranty or liability for your use of this information. Your use of this information means that you agree to the Terms of Use. How this information was developed to help you make better health decisions.

To learn more visit Healthwise.org

© 1995-2012 Healthwise, Incorporated. Healthwise, Healthwise for every health decision, and the Healthwise logo are trademarks of Healthwise, Incorporated.

Women's Health

Find out what women really need.

Please acknowledge your agreement





Medical Dictionary


Use Pill Finder Find it Now

Pill Identifier on RxList

  • quick, easy,
    pill identification

Find a Local Pharmacy

  • including 24 hour, pharmacies