We always recommend pregnant women wear compression stockings (they are not your granny's stockings) due to the increased risk of blood clotting during and immediately post-delivery.

Many times, after the first pregnancy, these may resolve (or not). But with subsequent pregnancies, they typically won't. Pregnancy can bring out a person's inherited family history of weak underlying valves, in addition to pregnancy hormones dilating veins.

If these don't resolve, we recommend a consultation with a vascular surgeon who specializes in treating these, including ultrasound. The procedures are minimally invasive with little downtime and are done in the office under local anesthetic.

We are not sure why OBs and midwives don't recommend compression hose. You will be more comfortable throughout the pregnancy and have less risk of clotting.

Published on Jul 11, 2012

Varicose veins are the result of malfunctioning saphenous vein valves, which have been stretched during pregnancy. Post-pregnancy, the valves will be less stretched and the veins MAY shrink. But it has been my experience that small varicose veins may resolve but, more commonly, varicose veins tend to remain and just be a little smaller. Wait 2 to 3 months after you deliver and then see a vein specialist for an evaluation.

Published on Jul 11, 2012