Gradual swelling in both legs and feet, worse at the end of the day and in hot weather, is a common part of pregnancy. That is what these socks are for.
Some swelling is not that. The list below is not us being cautious for legal reasons. These are the signs that need a clinician, and a sock is not the answer to any of them.
Contact your midwife, doctor or maternity unit straight away if you have:
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Sudden swelling, or swelling that gets noticeably worse very quickly
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Swelling in one leg only, particularly with pain, tenderness, warmth or redness in the calf
- Swelling of your face, hands or around your eyes
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A severe headache that will not shift
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Vision changes such as blurring, flashing lights or spots
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Pain just below your ribs, usually on the right side
- Shortness of breath or chest pain
- Reduced or changed movements from your baby
These can be signs of conditions including pre-eclampsia and blood clots, both of which need prompt medical assessment. Do not wait to see if it settles, and do not let anyone tell you it is just normal swelling if something feels wrong to you.
You are allowed to ask
A lot of women tell us they hesitated because they did not want to make a fuss, or because they had already been told swelling was normal. Please call anyway. Maternity teams would far rather check something that turns out to be fine.
About our socks specifically
They are a comfort and support garment for everyday swelling and heavy-feeling legs. They are not a medical device, they do not treat any condition, and they are not a reason to delay getting something looked at.
If you have been given specific medical advice about your legs, your circulation or your pregnancy, follow that advice over anything on this website.
