How pregnancy affects your feet It’s natural – and doctor-recommended – to gain a certain amount of weight during the 40 weeks of pregnancy. Be aware, though, that a woman’s changing body shape also changes the way she walks, and makes her feet and ankles swell due to the buildup of fluid in her lower extremities. During pregnancy, the body produces a hormone called relaxin, which, as its name implies, “relaxes” joints and ligaments. You want the pelvic ligaments to relax when it’s time to give birth; however, the hormones are not specific and can affect other areas of the body. In a foot or an ankle, opening up joints and ligaments can change the size or shape of the feet and cause instability. Estrogen is another hormone whose levels are elevated during pregnancy. It can cause intense itching on the soles of your feet, as well as the palms of your hand. Minimizing foot pain during pregnancy Don’t sacrifice your body to fashion. Always wear low-heeled, wide-based, supportive shoes. Avoid ballet flats or flip flops which offer no support. Shoes with adjustable straps or laces are best so you can adapt to fluctuations in foot or ankle swelling. Our friendly staff can tell you if your changing feet might benefit from the extra support of arch supports or orthotic shoe inserts. Rest as often as you can. Put your feet up to prevent and reduce swelling. 1. While sitting, don’t cross your legs, and don’t sit for long periods of time. 2. Minimize aches and pains by stretching your feet and ankles daily – even twice daily, in the morning and in the evening. 3. Relieve that itch by applying a moisturizer as needed. 4. Prevent or reduce swelling by avoiding salt and drinking lots of water. 5. Wear loose-fitting clothing 6. In some cases knee or thigh high compression socks may be helpful. Avoid socks with tight ankle bands. Relaxed–fit or Diabetic Socks may be more comfortable. Women who have pre-existing problems with their feet (such as flat feet or plantar fasciitis) may experience an increase in their symptoms while pregnant. If you need help or advice with your feet call us at Body and Sole 613 258 5508.