Swelling

Because your body is taking on so much more in the way of fluids, food and weight, your heart has to work significantly harder to pump blood through your body. As gravity would have it, this extra fluid and such eventually finds its way down to your extremities, causing fluid buildup in the form of edema, especially later in pregnancy.

The type of swelling that occurs during the latter stages of pregnancy is referred to as pitting edema. Why? Because pressing in to your skin in swollen areas will actually leave an indention, or, pit! Don't worry, both the pit and the edema are temporary, going away right after birth.

Remedies and Prevention of Pitting Edema:

• Do not stand for prolonged periods of time.
• Avoid salty and fatty foods. Eat a balanced diet high in protein and fiber.
• Avoid tight clothes.
• REST REST REST.
• Swim/exercise to keep the circulation moving.
• Stay hydrated with lots of water.
• Elevate your legs – put pillows under your feet.