Vaginal Varicose Veins
by Cynthia Flynn, CNM, Ph.D.

Q. I am 30 weeks pregnant with twins, and this is my third pregnancy. I am of normal weight, and have only gained 25 lbs. thus far. With this pregnancy, I have developed very large varicose veins in my perineal area. The doctor says they should get better after delivery, but I am wondering if there is anything I can do to help them resolve at that time.

A.You can try wearing spandex (bike shorts or the like) if you can find some that fits and throw a thick pad in there so that there is pressure against the varicosities. But I agree, delivery usually cures them pretty fast; in a day or two they are MUCH better. Sometimes a maternity support belt can also help.

Good luck!