Pregnancy: Changes in Feet and Ankles

Topic Overview

Some changes in your feet and ankles are normal during pregnancy. These symptoms occur from normal hormonal changes and increased body weight and usually go away after delivery. Many women see a change in shoe size during pregnancy and that may not go away later.

  • Redness and itching of the soles and palms frequently occur during pregnancy. These symptoms may be caused by the normal increase in the hormone estrogen. A moisturizer may provide temporary relief.
  • Swelling of the feet and ankles may occur because of normal fluid buildup.
  • Foot strain, pain, and aching may be caused by softness (laxity) in ligaments.

Credits

By Healthwise Staff
Primary Medical Reviewer William H. Blahd, Jr., MD, FACEP - Emergency Medicine
Specialist Medical Reviewer H. Michael O'Connor, MD - Emergency Medicine
Last Revised October 1, 2012

Last Revised: October 1, 2012

Author: Healthwise Staff

Medical Review: William H. Blahd, Jr., MD, FACEP - Emergency Medicine & H. Michael O'Connor, MD - Emergency Medicine

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