14 Common Causes of Varicose Veins

2. Pregnancy

Women who have never had problems with varicose veins before may suddenly discover the veins on their legs are bulging or discolored. Not all pregnant women have this issue, but many actually develop varicose veins when the growing uterus puts weight on the inferior vena cava, or the main vein going from the lower part of your body back to the heart. When you are pregnant, it is important to make sure you get plenty of exercise to improve circulation.

This not only helps prevent varicose veins but will also help your body bring nourishment to your fetus more efficiently. In addition, try wearing specially designed maternity support hose that puts pressure on parts of the leg and allows circulation to move upward, preventing varicose veins. Regular support hose can compound the problem. You may also want to make sure you are sleeping on the left side of your body to relieve pressure from the inferior vena cava.