Dr. Barry Oswalt sees these issues often at Fort Worth Vein Center. As a board-certified specialist in venous and lymphatic medicine, he helps women in Fort Worth and Arlington, Texas, feel better with minimally invasive treatments.
Why Pregnancy Impacts Your Veins
When you’re pregnant, your body produces more blood to support your growing baby. At the same time, hormones can cause your vein walls to relax, and your expanding uterus puts pressure on the veins in your pelvis. All of this makes it harder for blood to flow back up from your legs. As a result, your veins can stretch, twist, and swell.
This is why so many pregnant women develop varicose veins or experience symptoms like heaviness, burning, or swelling in their legs, especially later in pregnancy.
What You Might Notice
Vein changes during pregnancy vary. Some women see blue or purple veins appear on their calves or thighs. Others feel constant leg fatigue or pressure, especially after standing or sitting for long periods. These symptoms often get worse as the pregnancy progresses.
If any of this sounds familiar, know that it’s not just a cosmetic issue. These symptoms can signal underlying venous issues, and there are safe ways to manage them.
What You Can Do About It
Try elevating your legs when you rest, staying active with walks, and wearing compression stockings. Avoid standing for long periods, and if possible, rest on your left side to take pressure off certain veins.
If symptoms don’t improve or are starting to interfere with your day-to-day life, it may be time to talk to a vein specialist. Dr. Oswalt offers non-surgical treatments like sclerotherapy, radiofrequency ablation, and ultrasound-guided procedures that close off damaged veins and relieve symptoms.
Get Professional Help in Fort Worth
You don’t have to wait until after pregnancy to seek treatment. To learn more about what’s going on with your veins, call Fort Worth Vein Center at 817-536-9600 to schedule a consultation.
