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What are they?
A varicosity is a vein which has become distended with blood and
no longer functions as well as it was meant to in returning
blood to the heart. Varicosities generally occur in the lower
parts of the body, commonly in the legs. They can also occur in
the vulva or in the rectal area. Varicosities of the rectal/anal
area are called hemorrhoids.
What causes them?
In pregnancy, several factors contribute to the formation of
varicose veins and hemorrhoids. Increased levels of estrogen
causes elastic tissue found in the veins to be more fragile.
High levels of progesterone cause relaxation of vein walls. The
growth of the uterus creates higher pressure in the pelvis and
legs which can impede blood return. Some women have a genetic
tendency toward varicosities.
Timing and Symptoms
Varicosities are most likely to appear in
the last half of pregnancy, especially in the third trimester.
Hemorrhoids may not appear until after birth as they sometimes
occur as a result of the pressure of the baby's head during
birth. Varicosities in the legs and vulva may not be symptomatic
at all or may cause deep aching in the affected areas.
Superficial varicosities may appear as ropy looking areas on the
surface of the leg. Hemorrhoids may cause itching, burning, and
may bleed.
Prevention and relief
| For hemorrhoids: |
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Avoid constipation.
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Witch hazel compresses may be
applied directly to the hemorrhoids.
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Sitting in a tub of warm water
may be soothing.
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Some women find relief
by side-lying, using lubricant on their finger to
replace a protruding hemorrhoid. This can be
followed by Kegal exercises |
| Other
varicosities |
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Rest several times a day with
the legs and buttocks elevated.
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Do not stand for long periods.
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Walk or swim daily.
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Use maternity support hose --
put them on while still in bed, and wear them at all
times when you are up and around.
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Keep legs uncrossed when
sitting. |
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Sleep with legs elevated, and
rest several times per day on your left side.
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Avoid tight, constrictive
clothing. |
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Vulvar varicosities
may be helped by applying physical support such
wearing a foam rubber pad or several sanitary pads
held in place with a sanitary belt. Some women find
relief using bicycle shorts that fit snugly around
the crotch area. There are other garments that have
proven to be useful. One such garment can be found
at
www.fembrace.com
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Teas such as oatstraw,
parsley or nettle are reputed to strengthen
capillaries and improve elasticity of veins. |
| Danger signs |
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Warmth, redness, swelling, or
tenderness over the vein or in the leg.
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Fever or chills.
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| Leg pain when
pressure is applied to the calf or swelling in one
leg only. |
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