During pregnancy, a pair of maternity support stockings can help reduce the appearance of varicose veins and relieve aches and pains in the legs. Hormonal changes make the blood clot easily, and the position of the growing baby applies pressure to major veins that run through the legs. Both of these changes can cause discomfort throughout pregnancy.
Jobst maternity stockings are available in three compression levels: 8-15 mmHg, 15-20 mmHg and 20-30 mmHg. Lighter compression prevents varicose veins from appearing and soothes tired legs, while the firmer levels help reduce the pain caused by visible varicosities. Many women switch to higher compression levels during the third trimester. Special surgical-grade support stockings, usually in knee or thigh-high lengths, may be worn while giving birth to prevent blood clots.
Veins may also have been damaged from the birthing process or a cesarean section. Doctors may prescribe compression stockings to be worn for the first few days of motherhood. To keep legs looking their best and relieve some of the fatigue of being a new mother, light support stockings can be worn until the mother returns to a normal activity level.
Jobst maternity support hose at ContourMD feature an expandable belly panel that stretches throughout pregnancy. Women should use their pre-pregnancy weight when selecting maternity support hosiery.