Dealing with swollen feet and ankle after delivery

A friend of mine delivered a bouncy baby boy last week. The excitement was great especially as I behold this young lady friend joyfully hold her son in her arms at the hospital. This exceeding joy continues even to this time as I write. I visited her today and she complained of swollen feet and ankle that is very painful.


Like this friend of mine, many women experience swollen feet, ankles and abdomen even after delivery. I must say that it is normal for a pregnant woman or a woman who has delivered to have swollen feet, ankle and abdomen. This is because during pregnancy, the body produces about 50% more blood and fluids than it usually does to meet the needs of the mother, the growing baby and the placenta. These extra fluids help to soften the pregnant woman's body so that it can accommodate the baby as he or she grows in the womb. It also prepare the joints and tissues in the pelvis of the woman to stretch during delivery. Additionally the Intravenous fluids like normal saline that is given during delivery contributes to the increase in fluid volume causing swollen feet. All this fluids that has built up in pregnancy will take a while to pass out of your body and it will not disappear immediately you have given birth. It will resolve with time.

Below are some few ways of dealing with swollen feet and ankle.
  1. Avoid standing for long - If you must be on your feet, try to take frequent breaks when you can rest your feet. Standing for long will cause pooling of fluids in your lower extremities (Legs)
  2. Elevate your legs -  To promote fluid drainage from your legs, elevate your legs over your hips. You can put your feet on a pillow when sleeping to keep them elevated. Also do not cross your legs when you sit down because crossing your feet will restrict blood flow.
  3. Wear comfortable shoes - A woman with swollen feet should wear comfortable shoes that do not constrict your feet. Avoid high heels if you can and clothing that’s tight around the wrists and ankles. Instead, put on clothes and shoes that are loose on you to prevent restricting circulation.
  4. Avoid processed foods - Many of these processed foods contain high amounts of sodium (salt), which can cause bloating and aggravate postpartum swelling. Instead, eat a healthy, balanced diet with good sources of lean protein and lots of fresh fruits and vegetables. Try to keep sugar and table salt to a minimum.
  5. Massage your feet - Leg and foot massage is great for your circulation and discourage fluid build-up in the legs.
  6. Exercise - Mild to moderate exercise can help to reduce edema. Women with enough energy can perform water aerobics as a way of gently soothing uncomfortable swollen joints. If this is too strenuous, yoga or a light walk at home can be helpful.

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