Many summertime births occur because of the cold winter months. According to the 2010 National Vital Statistics Reports, July, August, and September are the most popular birthday months. American women experience this phenomenon between 50 and 55 percent. varicose veins during pregnancy.
“It’s more than just a cosmetic issue, varicose veins can be painful and can lead to more serious health problems,”Eva Rzucidlo MD is chair of the Society for Vascular Surgery Women’s Leadership Committee.
According to the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services’ Office on Women’s Health, varicose veins can be caused by these factors.
* Pregnancy: The growing uterus puts pressure on the veins.
* Hormonal changes: During puberty, pregnancy and menopause.
* Medical history: Family members with varicose veins.
* Obesity: Extra weight adds pressure on the veins.
* Lack of movement: Sitting or standing for long periods of time may force the veins to work harder to pump blood to the heart.
* Increasing age: Veins may weaken with age.
Varicose veins can be reduced by lifestyle changes and medical treatment. The following suggestions can be used to reduce discomfort:
* Sunscreen
* Regular exercise
* Proper weight
* Not crossing legs when sitting for long periods of time
* Elevating legs when resting
* Not sitting or standing for long periods of time
* Wearing elastic support stockings
* Avoiding high-heel shoes for long periods of time
* Eating a low-salt, high-fiber diet.
“The first line of management for varicose vein treatment is medical management with compression stockings worn daily,” said Rzucidlo. “Another option is sclerotherapy, the sealing off of the veins — mainly done for spider veins. Radiofrequency and laser treatments are also options which are minimally invasive procedures often performed in a doctor’s office. For very large varicose veins, a surgical procedure known as vein stripping is available.”
VascularWeb.org has podcasts that provide information for moms-to-be.
