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Varicose veins are rope-like raised veins that can be blue, purplish, or an angry red. and the first time you see them on your body might make you weep. Then again, since you're pregnant, TV commercials and round-eyed kitty cats probably already have you weeping.

These unsightly veins most commonly appear on the legs, in the groin area, and in the rectum (varicose veins in the rectum are commonly known as hemorrhoids). They usually develop in the 2nd trimester and often get worse in the final weeks of pregnancy.

They are caused by:...

Varicose veins are rope-like raised veins that can be blue, purplish, or an angry red. and the first time you see them on your body might make you weep. Then again, since you're pregnant, TV commercials and round-eyed kitty cats probably already have you weeping.

These unsightly veins most commonly appear on the legs, in the groin area, and in the rectum (varicose veins in the rectum are commonly known as hemorrhoids). They usually develop in the 2nd trimester and often get worse in the final weeks of pregnancy.

They are caused by:

• the pressure your growing uterus is exerting on the veins in your legs and pelvis
• the 50% increase in blood volume in your body
• heredity (thanks, Mom)

For some women, varicose veins are ugly but painless; many, though, feel a throbbing or achiness where they appear. But don't despair. Varicose veins usually go away within a few weeks after delivery.

What You Can Do

If you're worried you might get varicose veins, or have noticed you have some, there are measures you can take to stop them from worsening:

• Put your feet up (as if you needed an excuse) at least 15 minutes every hour of every day and don't cross your legs when sitting down.
• Exercise: the more walking, swimming, and moderate exercise you do, the more blood flow you'll get to your legs, which decreases the tendency to get varicose veins.
• Do Kegels: you should be doing these anyway, whenever you remember (best time: when stuck in traffic) and Kegels increase blood flow to the rectum and vulva, decreasing the likelihood of varicose veins.
• Wear loose clothing: so as not to constrict blood flow. Many experts, including Dr. William Sears, also recommend wearing maternity pantyhose.

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