Pregnancy affects the body in countless ways. Although some of the most noticeable changes will disappear after labor and delivery, there are several that are essentially permanent. Varicose veins, for example, are large, swollen veins that are highly visible through the skin. They often develop during pregnancy as the result of the increased pressure that a growing uterus places on the legs. Here are a few facts all pregnant women should know about this phenomenon.  

They Can Be Minimized

Everyone’s body responds to pregnancy differently. That means for some, developing varicose veins is inevitable; however, there are steps all pregnant women can take to prevent or at least minimize their appearance. These include exercising daily to facilitate circulation, maintaining a healthy weight, and elevating the feet and legs whenever possible. You should also avoid crossing your ankles or legs when sitting and make it a point to get up and move around after sitting or standing for an extended period. 

They Can Be Treated 

If you develop varicose veins during pregnancy, wearing compression socks and moving around frequently can reduce their appearance after giving birth. If you still find them unsightly more than four months after delivery, there are various treatment options that can help. Some of the most popular procedures include ambulatory phlebectomy, foam sclerotherapy, VenaCure EVLT, ClariVein, and VNUS Closure. These innovative treatments are ideal for even the busiest moms because they are minimally invasive and require little downtime. 

If you have developed varicose veins in recent years, turn to Advanced Varicose Vein Treatments of Manhattan to explore possible treatment options. Led by Dr. Ronald Lev, who is certified by The American Board of Venous and Lymphatic Medicine, they provide comprehensive care at multiple locations throughout New York City. In addition to vein care, services include liposuction, Botox®, and cellulite reduction. Visit their website to find the office nearest you, or call 888.356.VEIN (8346) to make an appointment today.