When you see that positive pregnancy test, you may imagine a beautiful baby bump, but pregnancy affects you from head to toe. Along with the joy of impending motherhood, many women experience foot-related challenges. Swollen feet, or edema, are a classic pregnancy symptom caused by increased blood volume and pressure on leg veins. Weight gain and hormonal changes can exacerbate plantar fasciitis; supportive footwear and gentle stretching can help. Your arches might flatten, making comfortable shoes hard to find, but orthotic inserts can provide needed support. Hormonal changes can also lead to overpronation, where feet roll inward excessively; good arch support and foot muscle exercises can alleviate this.
Ingrown toenails become more common as your belly expands, making regular foot care difficult. Increased pressure on your feet can cause bunions, bringing pain and discomfort. Heel pain, often linked to Achilles tendonitis or plantar fasciitis, can make walking challenging. Varicose veins can also appear on your feet, caused by increased pressure on your circulatory system. Lastly, foot cramps can strike suddenly due to dehydration, nutrient deficiencies, or just the joys of pregnancy. Each of these ailments, while challenging, can be managed with proper care and attention, helping you navigate your journey to motherhood.
source: https://myfootdoc.com/9-foot-issues-expecting-mothers-feet-can-expect/
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