Question:
Any suggestions re varicose veins? I have heard that their development can be more common in subsequent pregnancies as the veins are already weakened somewhat and pregnancy tends to make them more engorged anyway. I have developed one in a very uncomfortable place and all the advice and info I come across is related to veins in legs or else haemerroids. Definately not sitting pretty!!!

Answer: -I assume that you are talking about vulvar varicosities? If so, I have them myself. My OB suggested wearing a maternity belt. I had just picked up some "maternity girdles" (not really girdles at all, but maternity underwear with a light weight belly belt built in), and these seem to work well. It does seem to make a difference -- you might want to try it. Other than that, avoid sitting or standing for long periods of time, try to walk or participate in some sort of light to moderate aerobic activity, and try to lie down on your left side periodically (all are supposed to help keep up blood flow). Hope this answered your question. -Would this be vulval varicose veins? My sister had these, and yes, she was pretty miserable. These are the suggestions she was given: To keep weight gain under control (she was *very* overweight to start with, and also gained 80lb) To use an ice pack, but wrapped in something like a pillowcase (don't want frostbite!) To avoid prolonged standing. They did go away after delivery, without treatment. Hope yours do too! -Now I know what they are called. I tried doing an internet search but nothing came up and I only have one but it seems to really throb and hurt sometimes. I have never had any varicose veins before and I feel sympathy for people who get them now. I thought that they just looked unattractive - I didn't realise that they HURT! My weight is OK so I will just wait until my next appointment and in the meantime try to sit on my side. Will also try a ice pack although I guess it gives a whole new menaing to the word "frigid"!!!