How do I put on Compression Stockings?

I'm pregnant, and already have varicose veins, but I don't want them to get worse. What is the best way for me to put the stockings on? Are there any tricks for getting around a pregnant tummy?

Answers from doctors (10)


Vascular Institute of Chattanooga

Published on Aug 17, 2019

There are assisted devices that are commercially available to help with applying stockings. This, or you may wish to get someone to help.

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Answered by Vascular Institute of Chattanooga

There are assisted devices that are commercially available to help with applying stockings. This, or you may wish to get someone to help.

Published on Jul 11, 2012


Vanish Vein and Laser Center

Published on Aug 28, 2010

During pregnancy knee high compression is probably all that is necessary. Thigh high or maternity panty hose can also be used. Sometimes wearing rubber gloves helps in applying.

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Answered by Vanish Vein and Laser Center

During pregnancy knee high compression is probably all that is necessary. Thigh high or maternity panty hose can also be used. Sometimes wearing rubber gloves helps in applying.

Published on Jul 11, 2012


More About Doctor Innovative Vein

Published on Mar 23, 2010

I would get stockings that are simply high thigh. You don't need panty hose style. There are specialty pregnancy garments as well. But it makes the most sense if your legs are your only concern to just get the shorter thigh high version.

Answered by Innovative Vein (View Profile)

I would get stockings that are simply high thigh. You don't need panty hose style. There are specialty pregnancy garments as well. But it makes the most sense if your legs are your only concern to just get the shorter thigh high version.

Published on Jul 11, 2012


More About Doctor Laser Vein Center

Published on Mar 14, 2010

First of all, if you are wearing the full panty hose, make sure that they are the maternity kind. Or you could use knee highs or thigh highs. Some compression hose companies sell devises to help get them on easier, you could find more information about that online. There is no easy way to get them on. I always recommend using gloves (Latex, Nitrile, rubber, etc.). If it were my wife, I would be helping her with them

Answered by Laser Vein Center (View Profile)

First of all, if you are wearing the full panty hose, make sure that they are the maternity kind. Or you could use knee highs or thigh highs. Some compression hose companies sell devises to help get them on easier, you could find more information about that online. There is no easy way to get them on. I always recommend using gloves (Latex, Nitrile, rubber, etc.). If it were my wife, I would be helping her with them

Published on Jul 11, 2012


Angelo N. Makris MD

Published on Mar 11, 2010

I would recommend thigh-high stockings not the pantyhose type.

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Answered by Angelo N. Makris MD

I would recommend thigh-high stockings not the pantyhose type.

Published on Jul 11, 2012


VeinSolutions - Edina

Published on Mar 11, 2010

First of all, if you are wearing the full panty hose, make sure that they are the maternity kind. Or you could use knee highs or thigh highs. Some compression hose companies sell devises to help get them on easier, you could find more information about that online.

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Answered by VeinSolutions - Edina

First of all, if you are wearing the full panty hose, make sure that they are the maternity kind. Or you could use knee highs or thigh highs. Some compression hose companies sell devises to help get them on easier, you could find more information about that online.

Published on Jul 11, 2012


Bella MD Laser Vein and Aesthetic Center

Published on Mar 11, 2010

Might look for some "donning aids".? Tools to make it easier to get them on.? Also may want to get thigh high stockings instead as to not put pressure on your abdomen.

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Answered by Bella MD Laser Vein and Aesthetic Center

Might look for some "donning aids".? Tools to make it easier to get them on.? Also may want to get thigh high stockings instead as to not put pressure on your abdomen.

Published on Jul 11, 2012


Center for Venous Disease - Glendale

Published on Mar 11, 2010

There is no easy way to get them on. I always recommend using gloves (Latex, Nitrile, rubber, etc.). If it were my wife, I would be helping her with them.

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Answered by Center for Venous Disease - Glendale

There is no easy way to get them on. I always recommend using gloves (Latex, Nitrile, rubber, etc.). If it were my wife, I would be helping her with them.

Published on Jul 11, 2012


The Jacksonville Vein Center

Published on Mar 11, 2010

I would recommend using thigh high hose and avoid the enlarging belly altogether

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Answered by The Jacksonville Vein Center

I would recommend using thigh high hose and avoid the enlarging belly altogether

Published on Jul 11, 2012


Miller Vein

Published on Mar 04, 2010

If you are wearing compression pantyhose, I would recommend switching to thigh high compression stocking. If these are difficult to put on, there are multiple devices available to help you. If you Google "compression stocking accessories" there are multiple great sites.

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Answered by Miller Vein

If you are wearing compression pantyhose, I would recommend switching to thigh high compression stocking. If these are difficult to put on, there are multiple devices available to help you. If you Google "compression stocking accessories" there are multiple great sites.

Published on Jul 11, 2012


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