Puffy, MUCH?

Swelling in pregnancy is a common occurrence, and most of us will have experienced some form of fluid retention towards the end of pregnancy.

- MIDWIFE TINA OTTE

Puffiness of the wrists and ankles during pregnancy is caused by the accumulation of fluid in the tissues. This is probably due to the changes in the cardiovascular system, causing the blood vessels close to the surface of the skin to become more dilated in response to the increased blood volume.

Even though a certain amount of fluid retention is normal, too much can become uncomfortable and could lead to certain health problems, like high blood pressure.

Each woman retains fluid according to her individual needs. If you’re overweight during pregnancy, you will retain more fluid than a woman who's underweight. Even if you show no signs of swelling, you’re carrying an increased amount of fluid in your body during pregnancy.

WHY SO WATERY?

There are a number of reasons for retaining fluid in pregnancy (this is regulated by the influence of hormones):

The extra fluid that you carry helps your body to produce enough amniotic fluid for your baby. This liquid protects your baby from knocks and bumps and changes in temperature.

You need a bigger amount of circulating blood/fluids to meet the demands of your growing baby, as well as to help get rid of waste products.