Compression stockings for pregnant women

Compression stockings during pregnancy are the key to health

Varicose veins are a disease that can appear at any age. It poses the greatest danger to pregnant women. If the expectant mother has a predisposition to varicose veins, and also has spider veins or spider veins, swollen legs, or pain in the calf muscles, then this is a direct indication for wearing compression stockings during pregnancy.

Compression stockings deserve special attention among pregnant women, as they do not squeeze the stomach and do not interfere with going to the toilet, which is especially important in the last stages of pregnancy. Compression stockings are divided into two types: orthopedic (therapeutic) and preventive

Compression stockings are divided into two types: orthopedic (therapeutic) and preventive.

• Prophylactic stockings with compression degree up to 18 mmHg. sold without a prescription. They are almost no different from ordinary nylon ones. Every woman can wear them to prevent vascular diseases without a doctor’s recommendation. It is especially necessary to wear preventive stockings for women at risk.
• Therapeutic stockings are prescribed by a phlebologist, who also determines the required degree of compression. You can purchase them in specialized stores.

Thereby:

• blood circulates more actively;
• veins do not dilate;
• there is a better supply of oxygen;
• the risk of seizures and blood clots is reduced;
• Extracellular fluid is better absorbed, which reduces swelling.

According to the degree of compression, therapeutic stockings are divided into several classes:

• Class 1: compression (pressure on the legs) up to 23 mm Hg. Indications for use are: spider veins, pain, enlarged veins.
• Class 2: compression up to 33 mmHg. Such underwear is prescribed for thrombophlebitis or varicose veins.
• Class 3: compression up to 45 mmHg. The indication for wearing underwear of this class is severe venous insufficiency.
• Class 4: compression above 50 mmHg. Indications: severe vascular damage, impaired lymph flow and, as a result, very severe swelling.

You should not wear compression garments if you have the following conditions:

• allergies, manifested by rashes and eczema;
• diabetic wounds and other skin lesions;
• bleeding;
• heart and lung diseases;
• chronic vascular diseases, for example, atherosclerosis.

In order to have a positive effect from wearing compression hosiery, and also for the product to last longer, you must follow some rules:

1. Therapeutic knitwear must be selected according to size.
2. It is necessary to wear orthopedic stockings from the very beginning of pregnancy; preventive stockings can be worn from the second trimester.
3. You need to put it on in the morning, without getting out of bed. For convenience, you can use a special device - a butler. You need to take off your underwear before going to bed. If the products are class 3-4, then you can wear them less - the doctor will tell you about this.
4. Wash the product by hand in warm water, do not twist it, dry it flat to avoid deformation of the threads.
5. Handle the product with care, as any damage may disrupt pressure distribution.

The therapeutic effect depends on the correct choice of knitwear

Here it is important to choose a quality product that will last at least 9–10 months. Once the brand and model have been chosen, all that remains is to decide on the size.

To correctly determine the size, you need to take measurements using a centimeter tape: the circumference of the hip, the lower leg at the top and bottom, the length of the foot and leg. It is better to take measurements in the morning, before your legs swell.

If the size is chosen correctly, the stockings will not roll down. At first, you may feel discomfort from unusual compression.

Latest information: Varicose veins of the lower extremities. Clinical protocol for varicose veins. Varicose veins of the lower extremities

Medicinal products are presented by various manufacturers to suit every taste and budget. The most popular manufacturers of therapeutic knitwear: Medi (Germany), Venoteks (USA) and Orto (Russia). They have long established themselves in the market as creators of high-quality products that have excellent performance properties.

Knitwear is available in various models. There are both budget and expensive products. What they all have in common is the quality of their workmanship.

The service life of such products is 9-10 months.

Compression stockings are an excellent way to prevent or treat varicose veins during pregnancy. Prophylactic underwear can be worn without prescription, and therapeutic underwear is selected by a doctor

It is important to take into account contraindications and select the correct size and degree of compression. For effective results, underwear is worn from the beginning of pregnancy, removed only at night

Rules for selecting compression hosiery

This is a medical product, so you should choose it responsibly. Three characteristics are decisive: type, class (or degree of compression) and individual size.

Types of compression garments

Medicine offers several types - from bandages to tights. When choosing, you should take into account that the pressure of the laundry should begin 5-10 cm before the problem area. Comparative characteristics - in the table:

Compression product classes

The division into classes depends on the intensity of pressure. There are 4 classes:

Therapeutic effect of compression garments

If you feel that your legs are completely stiff or you have difficulty putting on shoes in the evening, then you should seriously think about buying compression garments. Pregnancy is a testing time for the female body. Rapidly gaining weight creates a lot of pressure on the legs, added to this are altered hormonal levels and increased blood volume - all these reasons provoke the appearance of dilated veins, swelling and pain. So, let’s find out why compression stockings are needed:

• protect veins from expansion;
• uniform pressure on the legs promotes normal blood circulation;
• vessels, veins and tissues are saturated with oxygen;
• prevention of thrombosis;
• swelling is eliminated.

It is recommended that all women, without exception, use compression stockings for childbirth to prevent the formation of blood clots, which can occur as a result of excessive pressure exerted on the lower extremities of the woman in labor. For safety and health, doctors recommend wearing preventive underwear throughout pregnancy. According to indications, women in labor should wear supportive underwear for a certain time after childbirth.

Who should use compression garments?

Compression stockings for pregnant women can be divided into several types:

• For prevention;
• Medicinal.

In the first case, it is worn in order to reduce the load on the legs and prevent the appearance of varicose veins before and after pregnancy. Even in this case, consult a gynecologist and therapist before purchasing.

But there are cases when a woman needs compression underwear for medical reasons. They are as follows:

1. Severe venous insufficiency. The veins are very pronounced, the woman experiences pain when walking;
2. Chronic fatigue, heaviness in the legs;
3. Severe swelling, which is especially noticeable towards the end of the day. It gets to the point that when pressure is applied to the skin, a depression is formed that does not go away for a long time;
4. Frequent cramps, which are mainly localized in the calf muscles. This phenomenon may indicate a lack of calcium in the body. In addition to compression garments, a woman needs to take appropriate medications;
5. Thrombosis;
6. Eczema or dermatitis.

Even if these problems were not too pronounced before pregnancy, after pregnancy the load on the legs will increase and the pathologies will intensify. Compression stockings will reduce symptoms, the expectant mother will feel comfortable and will be able to move easily without experiencing discomfort and pain in the lower extremities.

Many girls ask: “What effect do compression stockings have?” In fact, their role is great:

• The veins are compressed, so they do not have the opportunity to expand;
• Pressure is applied to the legs, this does not lead to blood stagnation;
• Active metabolism occurs, cells are saturated with oxygen, essential nutrients and microelements;
• There is no possibility of the formation of thrombosis and seizures;
• The vessels are in use, so they actively absorb excess fluid, this minimizes the risk of edema.

In maternity wards you can often see women wearing stockings. Believe me, this is not their whim or desire to look fashionable and beautiful. Doctors advise wearing underwear so that the veins do not rupture during pushing.

Device for putting on compression hosiery and its cost

Despite the apparent simplicity of the process of putting on medical jersey, it is very difficult to do. Especially when it comes to stockings with compression classes 3 and 4. When buying compression underwear of the wrong size, you doom yourself to additional pain when putting it on and wearing it, and also minimize the therapeutic effect. And in some cases, putting too much pressure on your feet can be harmful.

Each manufacturer has its own size chart, so when choosing medical items, it is best to use the help of a consultant. Many girls believe that if they apply moisturizer or oil to their feet, it will be easier to put on the product. This is fundamentally wrong. Compression fabric glides best over completely dry skin. Skin oily from cream or oil, on the contrary, will complicate this process.

The only thing that can make the task a little easier is medical gloves. To make putting on medical items easier, we developed a special spray and a device for putting on compression hosiery.

Sprays for easy putting on and comfortable wearing of compression hosiery not only help you put it on, but also take care of your legs, moisturizing the skin, having a venotonic effect, and they also help relieve swelling and minimize pain.

Before use, the bottle must be shaken to ensure uniformity of the emulsion contained in it. The spray is sprayed onto the back surface of the product from a distance of 25-30 centimeters. This must be done every time before using medical knitwear.

To significantly simplify the process and reduce the time of putting on medical underwear, you can use a special device for putting on compression hosiery. This device is recommended for use by elderly people, overweight patients, bedridden patients and pregnant women, that is, those who cannot bend over on their own.

Latest information: Varifort pillow for varicose veins

There are many different models of butlers:

1. The standard product is suitable for putting on any type of compression garment.
2. Big is suitable for putting on large-sized medical lingerie. Its distinctive feature is the elongated handles.
3. Butler Long is most convenient for size 4 underwear, and the length of its handles allows you to avoid bending over while dressing.
4. In the Vario modification it is possible to adjust the length of the handles.
5. The Travel model is designed for travel and travel. It folds easily and fits into a small handbag.
6. A special device for tights allows you to wear compression tights on two legs at once. The length of the handles allows you to do this without bending over.
7. The hospital device is designed for bedridden patients.
8. Reha has a flatter part, more suitable for people with limited mobility.

All battlers are visually similar to each other, they are a system of arcs with a stable base. They are made of metal (less often plastic), carefully cleaned and coated with paint. The preparatory stage is to place the product on the element of the device that imitates a leg

It is important to ensure that there is safe stretching in the area of ​​maximum compression. This is necessary to maintain the integrity of the fabric fibers

The toe and heel should hang down, and the rest of the part should be turned inside out. The entire product is distributed on the arc like a small accordion. Then you need to insert your leg, straighten your toe and place your foot on the floor. After this, with smooth movements we pull the handles up to the desired height. The elastic band should be located above the affected vein. Using the device, tights can only be worn up to the thigh. Next you will have to work with your hands.

The price of such an assistant depends on the chosen model and manufacturer. The cost of a standard product varies from 1200 to 3000 rubles. Big and Long models cost around 5,000 rubles. The price of the Butler in the Travel modification reaches 8,300 rubles. For a device specially designed for tights, you will have to pay approximately 7,000 rubles.

The range of prices for hospital structures is the largest and ranges from 1800 to 7500 rubles. Butler, adapted for people with limited mobility, costs approximately 7,300 rubles.

Pricing policy for compression stockings

There are many manufacturers of compression clothing, differing in the cost of underwear, its quality and effectiveness. The most expensive linen is not always the most useful and high-quality.

The price mainly depends on the manufacturer of the knitwear, the quality of the material, and the pressure force, that is, on the class of compression stockings.

The minimum price for compression stockings starts from 400 rubles, with the most expensive manufacturers starting from 2,500 rubles.

When purchasing compression garments, look at the following criteria to help you choose the right jersey:

• Material. Lingerie should be made only from natural ingredients. Accordingly, when purchasing, you should definitely inquire about the composition of the knitwear, otherwise allergic reactions and other negative effects may occur.
• Quality. Linen should not stretch, but should retain its original shape. The effectiveness of compression stockings during pregnancy greatly depends on this.
• Price. The price of good quality compression garments is quite high, starting from 2000 rubles and more. If you want to get the maximum effect, you should not skimp on your health.
• Guarantee. The warranty period for good compression stockings should be no more than 10 months.

Product care

In order for compression stockings, tights or knee socks to last a long time, they need to be looked after and cared for. How to do it? – Gentle daily wash in warm water using baby soap. This remedy was chosen due to the minimal risk of allergies, which is important during pregnancy and childbirth.

If the stockings are torn, you should not wear them, but rather consult a doctor and get advice. Most likely, the therapeutic or preventive effect of such underwear will be reduced and the doctor will recommend buying new ones.

Summarizing the above

Compression garments should be worn in the following cases:

• for preventive purposes during the entire period of pregnancy;
• during caesarean section;
• when using epidural (peridural) anesthesia;
• long bed rest.

Thanks to compression garments, you will keep your legs healthy and beautiful and will be able to wear short skirts and dresses that reveal well-groomed and slender legs.

How to wear compression stockings during pregnancy, advice from doctors

To receive recommendations for wearing compression stockings, a pregnant woman must inform her gynecologist about swelling of the legs, pain in the legs at the end of the working day, even if there is a mark left on the leg from an elastic band or spider veins have appeared on the thighs, and the veins have begun to protrude under knees.

Latest information: Tip 1 What not to eat if you have varicose veins Tip 2 Dietary recommendations for varicose veins

In this case, she will be redirected to a vascular surgeon, who will conduct an examination and determine and prescribe the necessary compression hosiery, which comes in various classes - from the simple first, which is intended for prevention, to the second or third, which are already used for treatment and can be purchased without A doctor's prescription is not possible.

Usually, before recommending certain compression stockings, the doctor explains how to wear them during pregnancy, how to put them on and gives recommendations for caring for them.

There is a difference between compression stockings and regular ones - the former are much worse to put on than the latter, and the degree of difficulty of putting on directly depends on the class of the product itself. To put on compression stockings correctly, you must first put a silk sock on your leg (this is the case if the stockings come with an open toe), which comes with the stockings, and then start putting on the stockings as usual, and then you can easily wear the sock remove from leg.

Before wearing compression stockings, during the day you need to make sure that they fit well on the body and there are no folds anywhere. By the way, some craftsmen came up with the idea of ​​sprinkling talcum powder on their legs - this also makes the process of putting on compression stockings easier. You should also monitor the condition of your toenails to avoid damage to the compression tissue.

Also, stockings must be properly cared for so that they do not quickly lose their properties. They should be washed only in water whose temperature is not higher than forty degrees, using low-alkaline shampoo when washing. When spinning, do not use a washing machine or twist the stockings; it is best to place them between dry towels and press lightly to remove excess moisture. It is best to dry away from heating devices. For ease of use, it is recommended to buy two pairs.

Compression stockings for pregnant women – who needs them, how to choose

• The effect of wearing compression hosiery will only be noticeable if you choose the right size. To do this, you need to take measurements of your legs in the morning before swelling appears. You can take measurements yourself, but it is better if a phlebologist does it.
• Medical knitwear is manufactured in accordance with the standard size range. There are 3-7 sizes of compression garments. If the packaging indicates many different anatomical parameters, then choosing the optimal size that will provide the best therapeutic effect will not be difficult.

If the packaging indicates many different anatomical parameters, then choosing the optimal size that will provide the best therapeutic effect will not be difficult.

• You should not trust specialists who base their choice of medical underwear on the height and weight of the pregnant woman. The pressure of medical knitwear is strictly dosed: as it moves up to the hips, it decreases. Therefore, when choosing compression hosiery, measurements such as thigh circumference (taken at a point located 5 cm below the gluteal fold), calf and ankle circumference, and foot size are necessary.
• For those with thin legs with feet measuring 38-39, size S compression stockings, recommended for those with feet measuring 34-36 cm, will cause discomfort. In this case, it is better to purchase knitwear with open toes.

Wear medical stockings before delivery. It will be easier to do this at home if you ask someone close to you to help. When the baby is born, there is no need to rush to get rid of the stockings. The venous system after surgery undergoes another test:

• the young mother was in a lying position for a long time and now she needs to get up
• substances included in the anesthesia solution are not immediately eliminated

Stockings are divided according to the degree of compression. The classification depends on the pressure that is created at the ankle level. The required compression class is determined by the doctor, taking into account the condition of your legs.

Compression jersey is put on immediately after waking up and worn throughout the day. The high moisture and breathability of the materials from which the stockings are made create a healthy microclimate for the legs, allowing the skin to breathe freely; walking in stockings will be comfortable all day. Remove the product before going to bed.

If you had to take off the product outside the home, and you don’t have a special pillow with you, then you can put the jersey back on after a 10-15 minute rest with your legs raised up. It is enough to raise your foot just above your heart, then the blood flow will be maximum, and you can put on compression stockings again.

Phlebologists recommend the use of compression stockings, if indicated, throughout pregnancy and after childbirth. This way you will protect your legs from excessive stress and varicose veins.

Childbirth is a critical period for the vessels and veins of the lower extremities of the expectant mother. To protect the veins from tension directly during childbirth, the doctor prescribes special stockings.

Stockings for childbirth are medical knitwear, with adjusted therapeutic pressure. Such stockings improve blood flow, maintain muscle tone in a horizontal position, prevent the formation of blood clots and help avoid thrombophlebitis. In the maternity hospital, such knitwear is worn all the time, because the load on the legs still remains. You can find detailed information by following the link (“Compression stockings for childbirth”).

Stockings should be washed daily. Use liquid detergents for washing - they wash out well and do not destroy the fabric and threads of knitwear. Do not twist the product; to remove water, just squeeze the stockings. Dry flat, spread on a towel, away from heating appliances. Avoid exposure to direct sunlight.

The medical effect and safety of products are confirmed by European quality standards RAL-GZ 387. The standards regulate the composition and safety of the material, compression properties, elasticity, strength of knitwear, packaging and labeling requirements. Silver ions are included in the knitting of foot threads, which provides an additional antibacterial effect and eliminates the appearance of unpleasant foot odor. The reinforced toe and heel areas prevent them from quickly wearing out on the foot.

The elastic bands are made of medical silicone, which does not irritate the skin. The silicone in the elastic has holes for air circulation, the skin underneath breathes. Point silicone is responsible for the reliability of fastening on the thigh, the stocking will not slip.

Copper stockings stretch longitudinally and transversely, so they are easier to put on than others. Models with open toes come with a special silk sock, which also makes putting them on easier.

Our salons offer 4 lines of Copper stockings: Elegance, Comfort, Duomed, Plus. The selection table is designed for 7 sizes and two lengths: standard and small. This choice allows you to more carefully select the required size for women with different heights or wide hips.

Knitting using Clima comfort technology allows you to wear knitwear at any time of the year. They are not cold in winter, not hot in summer, and your feet do not sweat under stockings. For beginners wearing compression products, stockings from the Elegance line are suitable.

The compression of the stockings lasts for 6 months with regular wear and daily gentle washing. They can be used simultaneously with creams and gels for the feet, without losing their compression properties. The fabric does not use cotton, so the products do not pill and are not prone to shrinkage after washing and dry quickly.

Maternity stockings are made from soft fabrics using Swiss and German raw materials of the highest quality. The manufacturing process is controlled by a Finnish company, in accordance with the European RAL standard.

Strong elastic threads in the foot area increase the wear resistance of the products; they do not rub under the toes and heel so quickly. The dotted medical silicone used in the elastic does not cause allergies or irritation to the skin.

Luomma stockings do not stretch longitudinally, so you need to put them on and pull them up more carefully so as not to damage them. The size chart is smaller than the Medi and includes 4 sizes. However, stockings are quite convenient to select, because... They have two lengths, closed/open toe, models for regular and wide hips.

Depending on the season, you can choose transparent and thick knitwear in different colors. The compression of the stockings lasts for 6 months with regular wear and daily gentle washing. Decent knitwear at Russian prices!

Durable elastic stockings are made in Spain, but the company is Russian. Products with an openwork top are fixed on the thigh using a silicone tape that does not cause irritation.

Choosing a size makes it difficult because the stockings come in one length. There is no way to select them according to the patient’s height. This knitwear attracts with its low price. Knitwear is sewn only for a standard figure. If you have narrow or wide thighs, then it will be difficult to choose stockings from this company.

We suggest you read: Foot hurts when walking and is swollen

Customers note that Ortho knitwear does not remove moisture from the surface of the skin. Therefore, there is a feeling that the leg is “like glass” and the skin does not breathe.

To avoid feelings of stiffness and discomfort, additionally moisturize the skin of your feet before putting on knitwear. You can also purchase a special spray in our Ortix network.

If you still have questions about how to use compression stockings for pregnant women, write a question in our communities on social networks. If you have a question about how to choose stockings to wear during pregnancy, request a call back or call us toll-free.

Don't be alarmed, there won't be any complicated instructions. But it should be borne in mind that this is a medical device that can cause harm if used incorrectly. Therefore, several rules must be followed:

• put on compression garments immediately after sleep, while lying down. It is also recommended to hold your legs in an upright position for 5-10 minutes before putting them on;
• the stocking is neatly gathered into an accordion;
• the toe and heel are precisely fixed on the foot;
• The stocking is carefully stretched upward with small grips;
• carefully smoothed with palms for a snug fit and elimination of wrinkles;
• After putting it on, you need to lie down for a few minutes. Feelings of coolness and pressure are normal.

The period of wearing compression stockings for pregnant women depends on the class:

• 1-2 grade – from several hours to the whole day. It is recommended to remove it at night, the vessels need rest;
• Grades 3-4 – all day, but in case of severe pathologies it can be worn around the clock.

The exact wearing regimen should be determined by the doctor, based on the patient’s health status, as well as the degree of her load.

Any pregnant woman (even without visible varicose veins) experiences the need for compression underwear when flying.

To choose the size, you need to measure the circumference of the leg areas:

• upper wide part of the thigh;
• the middle part of the femur is 30 centimeters above the knee joint;
• knee;
• wide calf area;
• ankles.

To select stockings and tights, you need to know the distance from the upper thigh to the foot, and for knee socks - the length from the knee to the foot. You need to measure your legs in the morning, as due to swelling, evening measurements will not be correct.

On the packaging of the product, manufacturers place a table of sizes with standard length and volume indicators, with which the obtained indicators must be compared.

The likelihood of developing varicose veins increases with a hereditary predisposition. With each new pregnancy, the condition of the veins worsens.

Compression garments for pregnant women can be worn not only throughout pregnancy, but also in the first months after childbirth. Doctors recommend wearing this type of clothing for women who are prone to problems with blood vessels in the legs and suffer from pain, swelling, cramps and varicose veins.

The latter can have serious consequences, especially during pregnancy: in some cases, thrombophlebitis may develop with varicose veins during pregnancy, and in advanced cases, internal bleeding is possible.

Classes

All compression garments for pregnant women are divided into 5 main classes:

1. Class 0 – preventive class of linen with pressure up to 18 mm Hg. The most commonly used type of compression garment is to protect the legs from varicose veins. You should choose this class if you:

• family predisposition to varicose veins;
• lack of physical activity;
• excessive load on the legs, work on the legs;
• hormonal imbalances (especially during pregnancy);
• sudden weight gain or loss.

1. Class 1 - compression pressure is 23 mm Hg. This class of underwear is recommended for minor problems: an increase in the diameter of the veins, the appearance of spider veins, swelling and pain in the legs.
2. Class 2 – the pressure exerted on the legs is 33 mm Hg. This type of underwear is considered medicinal and is aimed at getting rid of varicose veins and thrombophlebitis.
3. Class 3 – compression level is 45 mm Hg. A class of underwear prescribed by a phlebologist for acute venous insufficiency.
4. Class 4 – maximum compression of 50 mm Hg. Acute and serious problems with lymphatic drainage are solved with the help of this class of compression garments. Strong pressure can relieve even the most severe swelling.

The compression effect of underwear is distributed unevenly in all classes. The strongest effect, 100%, is observed in the ankle area and, moving upward, noticeably weakens and is about 40% in the hip area.

What are compression stockings

First, let's find out what compression stockings are:

Compression stockings are a type of knitwear that allows you to avoid the development of varicose veins during pregnancy.

Compression stockings are a special type of knitwear designed for prevention and to avoid the development of varicose veins during pregnancy.

Compression garments are the best way to prevent varicose veins of the lower extremities for pregnant women, since many medications, preventive and diagnostic methods can harm the fetus.

Compression stockings apply strong pressure to the limb, which reduces the diameter of the veins and increases the speed of blood flow. Thus, compression stockings help reduce pressure in the veins, reduce venous congestion, and also significantly relieve swelling, heaviness and pain in the legs.