Reducing Swelling

• To prevent edema, keep your feet elevated as much as possible. This will prevent the blood from having to work vertically to get back to the heart. If you are sitting in a chair, put your feet up on another chair or a stool. Also, make sure you don't cross your legs or ankles when you are sitting. It is also important to stretch your legs as much as possible. You can do this while sitting. With your leg extended, flex your foot to stretch out your calf muscles. Other useful stretches are ankle rotations and wiggling your toes. It is also important not to sit or stand for too long. Take breaks. A frequent short walk will help with circulation as well.
  
  

Prevention

• When choosing socks, pick a pair that aren't tight around the ankles. Socks that are too tight will cut off the circulation to the feet even more. Maternity support stockings are available that hug the waist. Put them on before getting up in the morning to stop the blood from being stuck in the ankles. Though it might sound counterproductive, try to drink more water than usual. The body actually retains less water the more you drink. Eating well and exercising will also prevent edema.
  
  

Warnings

• Pregnancy-related edema is a temporary thing. It is also common to experience edema in the hands as well. However, if you notice swelling in the face or around the eyes you should contact your doctor immediately. Also, if your feet and ankles swell up suddenly it could be something serious. Edema is always bi-lateral, so if one ankle swells and the other does not, contact your physician.