Varicose veins during pregnancy – Everything you need to know

Varicose veins in pregnancy are very common – but that doesn’t make them any less uncomfortable. Many pregnant women notice blue or bulging veins in their legs, especially as the pregnancy progresses. While the condition is usually harmless, it can cause pain, pressure, and visible changes that can affect your wellbeing. This article explains why varicose veins appear during pregnancy, what symptoms to look for, and what you can do to find relief.

Why do varicose veins develop during pregnancy?

Pregnancy causes major changes in your circulatory system. Your blood volume increases significantly to support the developing baby, which puts extra pressure on your veins. At the same time, the hormone progesterone causes your blood vessels to relax, making the vein walls more likely to stretch. As the uterus expands, it can also compress large veins in the pelvis, further slowing blood flow from the legs back to the heart.

These factors combined make varicose veins more likely to appear. The risk increases with each pregnancy and is higher if you have a family history of vein issues or spend long periods standing or sitting.

Common symptoms during pregnancy

Varicose veins during pregnancy are most often seen in the legs, particularly the calves and thighs. Common symptoms include:

• Bulging, twisted, or dark blue veins
  
• Aching, throbbing, or heavy legs
  
• Itching or burning sensation near the veins
  
• Swelling in the lower legs and ankles
  

Sometimes, the symptoms are more noticeable in just one leg. If that's your case, we’ve written more about this in our article on why varicose veins can appear in only one leg.

What helps relieve varicose veins while pregnant?

There are several things you can do to manage symptoms during pregnancy:

• Wear compression stockings daily, ideally from the moment you get out of bed
  
• Take short walks throughout the day to keep the blood moving
  
• Avoid standing or sitting in the same position for long periods
  
• Elevate your legs whenever possible
  
• Sleep on your left side to reduce pressure on the main veins in your abdomen
  

These simple actions can also play a role in prevention. You can read more in our article on how to avoid varicose veins with simple lifestyle strategies.

What about varicose veins in the pelvic or genital area?

In some cases, varicose veins develop in the vulva or around the pelvis. These are known as vulvar or pelvic varicosities and are caused by the same circulatory changes. They may feel like swelling or pressure in the area, and are often more noticeable when standing. Most of these veins resolve naturally after delivery and are rarely treated during pregnancy.

Will they go away after birth?

For many women, varicose veins improve or disappear within a few months after giving birth. As blood volume returns to normal and the pressure on the pelvic veins reduces, the veins often shrink on their own. However, some women continue to experience symptoms or visible veins that don’t go away. If that’s the case after 6–12 months, you may want to consider a professional assessment.

When is treatment appropriate?

Treatment for varicose veins is typically postponed until after pregnancy and breastfeeding. At UK Vein Care, we offer gentle, evidence-based treatments such as endovenous thermal ablation and foam sclerotherapy. These modern techniques are safe, effective, and don’t require surgery or hospitalisation.

When should you seek medical advice?

Although most varicose veins in pregnancy are not dangerous, you should consult a healthcare provider if:

• You have sudden or intense pain in one leg
  
• The skin over a vein becomes red, warm, or inflamed
  
• You experience persistent swelling that doesn’t improve with elevation
  

At UK Vein Care, we can help evaluate your veins once your pregnancy is over and determine if treatment is needed.

Conclusion

Varicose veins in pregnancy are a common part of the body’s natural changes, but they can still cause discomfort. The good news is that symptoms often improve with self-care – and long-term solutions are available after delivery if the veins remain. With the right guidance and support, you can focus on what matters most: a healthy pregnancy.