Easing Swollen Feet

*Put your feet up whenever possible.

• Don't cross your legs or ankles while sitting.

• Stretch your legs frequently while sitting: Stretch your leg out, heel first, and gently flex your foot to stretch your calf muscles. Rotate your ankles and wiggle your toes.

• Take regular breaks from sitting or standing. A short walk every so often will help keep your blood circulating.

• Wear comfortable shoes that stretch to accommodate the swelling.

• Don't wear socks or stockings that have tight bands around the ankles or calves.

• Try waist-high maternity support stockings. Put them on before you get out of bed in the morning so blood doesn't have a chance to pool around your ankles.

• Drink plenty of water. Surprisingly, this helps your body retain less water.

Call your midwife or doctor if you notice swelling in your face or puffiness around your eyes, more than slight swelling of your hands, or excessive or sudden swelling of your feet or ankles. This could be a sign of preeclampsia, a serious condition.