I was told that only full belly/closed-toe stockings were appropriate for pregnancy as thigh-high compression stockings could pinch blood flow at groin area. Is this correct info? Are there any dangers to wearing thigh-high compression stockings during pregnancy? Thanks.
I have not heard this, but it would be better to wear full panty hose to get better compression.
Published on Jul 11, 2012
I think thigh high stockings are fine in pregnancy. Just make sure they fit. If you put on a lot of weight, you may need larger stockings.
Published on Jul 11, 2012
We do a lot of ultrasound scanning and compression hose fitting for women who are pregnant. Many women are able to wear thigh hose, but mostly we fit women into maternity panty hose. This offers abdominal support in the later weeks of pregnancy. We do not find any problems with outflow to the groin area, as the hose we fit are not "tight" at the top of the leg. The bands are designed to grip the leg without constricting and we are already compressing the superficial venous system in the lower leg. That is why you are wearing hose in the first place - they reduce the stress on the already dilated venous return system stimulated by pregnancy. However, you should always follow the advice of your ob/gyn on these things. We do not feel, however, that you will cause undue harm by wearing them early in the pregnancy. We often recommend pantyhose in the late second and third trimester for the reason mentioned above.
Published on Jul 11, 2012
We encourage pregnant patients to wear support hose in whatever length they are willing to wear, though we believe the support pantyhose with a maternity panel are best for those with swelling or varicose veins at the upper thigh. Properly fitted thigh length hose do not "pinch blood flow" at the groin.
Published on Jul 11, 2012
It will be very unusual that the thigh-highs will cut the blood flow, unless they are too small for the thigh size. There is no "contraindication" to using them.
Published on Jul 11, 2012
Proper fitting thigh high stockings will not diminish the flood flow in the groin. The statement is incorrect.
Published on Jul 11, 2012
If they fit well and cause no swelling then they should be fine.
Published on Jul 11, 2012
Wearing thigh-high stockings presents no danger to pregnant women. They are not meant to be worn in the groin area, and are instead designed to provide compression from the foot to the upper thigh several inches
below the groin. In addition, there are specially designed panties to compress vulvar varicosities when present.
Published on Jul 11, 2012
I agree overall, but it might be safe to try knee high stockings first. If they do the job, one can avoid the pantyhose type of stockings since they are very cumbersome to use on a daily basis.
Published on Jul 11, 2012
The pantyhose type are best in your situation.
Published on Jul 11, 2012
Thigh high would be fine unless you have vulvar varicosities.
Published on Jul 11, 2012
There are no dangers of compromising blood flow in the groin by wearing properly fitting thigh high compression stockings. The stockings end at the upper thigh and do not even cover the groin.
Published on Jul 11, 2012
This appears to be plausible on the surface but in reality is not a concern. If you have swelling in the legs due to venous insufficiency made worse during pregnancy, then the net improvement to your health from compression hose at any level is greater than the potential for compressing the veins in the thigh region, which incidentally are quite deep.
Published on Jul 11, 2012
I often prescribe mid thigh high hose during pregnancy. They are often more comfortable than pantyhose and not as hot.
Published on Jul 11, 2012
Truth be told, wearing thigh high compression stockings during pregnancy will not cut off blood flow to the groin area because it does not even reach or cover the groin area. They are "thigh high." In fact, the contrary is true in that the thigh high stockings, especially if you have swelling or vein disease, will actually help your legs' venous return. This will hopefully allow you to minimize your leg swelling, heaviness, and/or any other symptoms that you might be experiencing as a result of your pregnancy.
Published on Jul 11, 2012
I agree that thigh high compression during pregnancy can cause a problem if they are too tight at the thigh level. Ideally, pantyhose that cover the abdomen or knee-high length is usually all that is necessary. 85% of the muscle pump for venous return is at the calf level so knee highs are usually sufficient.
Published on Jul 11, 2012