Pregnant in Ashburn--What To Do About Varicose Veins

Women with vein problems during pregnancy often ask me if the veins in their lower extremities will continue to enlarge and cause more symptoms. Most recently, one of my varicose vein patients from Ashburn , Virginia came in with increasing pain and heaviness during her pregnancy.

It is an understandably distressing predicament. Fortunately for my patient (and others like her), once her baby is delivered, the varicose veins will most likely regress to a degree, but the underlying weakness in the vein remains and can be a progressive problem. The pain and heaviness should also subside. However, the underlying venous insufficiency may remain, increasing the risk of developing more veins during successive pregnancies.

I typically recommend compression hose (knee high, thigh high, or maternity) to temporarily reduce the venous pressure. For those with painful vulvar and labial veins, a V-2 supporter can help prevent excessive swelling. But ultimately, treating the veins with the Venefit Procedure (VNUS Closure) is the most reliable method. This is an in-office  procedure that is done under local anesthesia. Most women return to normal activity immediately. Even if your veins shrink after you deliver the baby, evaluation is necessary because this is typically a recurrent problem.

If you find varicose veins developing during your pregnancy, seek an initial evaluation with an experienced specialist, one accredited by the American Board of Phlebology. Free screening exams are always available at the Leesburg, Virginia office (www.mycvl.com).