The 1st time I wrote about my swollen feet was back in November. In actual fact, my feet has been slowly increasing in size since late September (17 weeks pregnant) when I had to borrow my Mom’s sandals. Now my once skinny tiny feet has grown snuggly into the generous size 6 Mary Jane!

Swelling During Pregnancy

This is quite common and some women tend to swell more than others.

Hormone fluctuations can also contribute to edema, which involves swelling of the hands, face, ankles, neck and other extremities.

Besides the swelling feet, my hands have also filled out. And thus, I have not been able to wear my wedding band for months now. I was not born with long slender fingers, so now my hands look even squarer because of the water retention.

The swelling is not really that obvious. But once I curled them into a fist, I can immediately feel the puffiness. Or if I clasped my hands together, my fingers can no longer fit in between each other comfortably.

What annoys me most is my chubby cheeks. And that pesky double chin! I didn’t realise how much they had puffed up until I compared some recent photos of myself. I am Fat!

I know I shouldn’t be whining, but vanity is a woman’s 2nd nature. Not to mention that my once clear complexion has also gone haywire *sobs*

Why it “has to” Happen?

During pregnancy the body produces roughly 50% more blood and fluids than normal to accommodate your growing baby. It can contribute up to 25% of weight gain.

Water retention helps keep the body flexible and allowing ample room for expansion during pregnancy.

The extra fluid contained in the tissues and muscles of the body also help our joints prepare for labor and delivery.

You Might Also Be Interested:
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Pregnancy Updates 25: I am Hot!
Pregnancy Updates 05: Drown in my own Spit.