During pregnancy, female hormones (estrogen and progesterone) contribute to the onset or worsening of varicose veins problems. Women are at a higher risk of vein diseases during their period, while on contraceptive pill, but also and in particular during pregnancy.
50% of pregnant women have ankle oedema and 20 to 30% of pregnant women are affected by varicose veins.
After delivery, the hormones are usually brought back to normal and most effects of the prolonged exposure to elevated hormones subside with a complete “restitutio ad integrum” (complete resolution).
Sometimes, however, effects of the hormonal changes can remain after the delivery. In particular during the second pregnancy, part of the varices that appear can be permanent.
The increased hormones may cause:
- Decreased venous tone resulting in dilation of the veins
- Incomplete valve closure
- Venous circulation is slowed down
- 20-30% increase in body blood volume throughout the body
- Increased venous pressure
- Increased blood coagulability, especially in the 3rd trimester
Apart from this last point, all other events may cause vein dilation.