Some mild swelling during pregnancy may occur because of normal fluid buildup. Swelling is most likely to be noticeable in your face, hands, or feet. As your pregnancy advances, your uterus puts pressure on the circulation to your legs and may cause swelling in your feet and ankles. Normally, foot swelling gets worse during the day and resolves at night.
If swelling of your face and hands does not go away during the day, this may be a sign of preeclampsia. Symptoms may develop gradually or suddenly. Preeclampsia is more likely when new swelling of your face, hands, or feet begins suddenly and you have a sudden weight gain of more than 2 lb (0.9 kg) over a 24-hour period during your third trimester, particularly if your blood pressure is high.
Credits
| Author | Jan Nissl, RN, BS |
| Editor | Susan Van Houten, RN, BSN, MBA |
| Associate Editor | Tracy Landauer |
| Primary Medical Reviewer | Renée M. Crichlow, MD - Family Medicine |
| Specialist Medical Reviewer | Liisa Honey, MD, FRCSC - Obstetrics and Gynecology |
| Last Updated | August 7, 2006 |
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