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.

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Credits

ByHealthwise Staff
Primary Medical ReviewerWilliam H. Blahd, Jr., MD, FACEP - Emergency Medicine
Specialist Medical ReviewerH. Michael O'Connor, MD - Emergency Medicine
Last RevisedMarch 20, 2012
By: Healthwise StaffLast Revised: March 20, 2012
Medical Review: William H. Blahd, Jr., MD, FACEP - Emergency Medicine
H. Michael O'Connor, MD - Emergency Medicine

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