Medically reviewed by Brent Greenberg, MD, DABVLM, FAAFP, RPhS
Swelling and leg fatigue are common during pregnancy. Extra weight and hormonal changes can lead to uncomfortable swelling in the ankles and feet. Poor circulation increases the risk of varicose veins and spider veins.
Compression socks can help.
These socks apply gentle pressure to promote healthy blood circulation. By improving blood flow, they reduce swelling during pregnancy and relieve leg pain.
This article will guide you in choosing the best compression socks for pregnancy.
We will cover:
- Different levels of compression
- Materials
- Brands to find the right fit
You will also learn about their health benefits and how they help manage conditions like venous insufficiency.
Whether you are dealing with mild swelling or need support for more serious concerns, this article can help you.
Keep reading below.
Why Do You Have Heavy Legs During Pregnancy
During pregnancy, approximately 6 in 10 women notice their first varicose veins, often starting around the fourth month.
Here is the explanation.
Your body ramps up blood production to support your growing baby, leading to increased blood volume. This puts extra pressure on your veins. Additionally, your expanding uterus may press against and constrict veins, complicating blood flow back to your heart.
Pregnancy hormones also cause your veins to dilate, making it even harder for blood to return efficiently. These factors contribute to the heavy, tired feeling in your legs, along with swelling and aching.
Benefits of Compression Socks During Pregnancy
Compression socks offer several key benefits during pregnancy:
- Reducing swelling: By applying graduated compression, these socks help manage peripheral edema in your legs and feet. This compression aids in lymphatic drainage, preventing the accumulation of extra fluid and reducing swelling.
- Preventing varicose veins: The socks support your leg veins, providing the necessary compression to pressure dilated blood vessels. This helps maintain blood flow and helps to prevent the formation of varicose veins. As we explained above, this is a common issue caused by the increased blood volume during pregnancy.
- Improving blood circulation: Compression garments promote better blood circulation by helping blood return to the heart more efficiently. This reduces the risk of blood clots and alleviates discomfort from blood pooling in your lower extremities.
- Easing leg fatigue: The gentle pressure from knee-high compression socks alleviates leg fatigue and discomfort so you can manage your daily activities with more ease.
Each of these effects contributes to healthier, more comfortable legs as you prepare for motherhood.
How to Choose the Right Compression Socks for Pregnancy
When choosing the right compression socks for pregnancy, consider these factors:
Compression Levels
Compression levels in socks are measured in millimeters of mercury (mmHg) and cater to different needs during pregnancy:
- Mild compression (10-15 mmHg): Ideal for managing mild swelling and discomfort. Provides gentle support to improve blood circulation during early pregnancy.
- Moderate compression (15-20 mmHg): Suitable for reducing the risk of deep vein thrombosis and addressing moderate venous insufficiency. This level helps with more noticeable leg symptoms.
- Firm compression (20-30 mmHg): Recommended if you're at risk of venous thromboembolism or severe venous conditions. Provides stronger support to relieve serious symptoms, typically advised by your healthcare provider.
Pro Tip: When choosing compression socks, always check for graduated compression, which means the pressure is highest at the ankle and gradually decreases up the leg. This design maximizes blood flow efficiency. For everyday wear, pair them with non-restrictive footwear to prevent additional pressure on your legs.
Material and Comfort
The right fabric can prevent discomfort and skin irritation, ensuring a pleasant experience throughout the day.
Look for these qualities:
- Breathable fabrics like cotton or nylon allow airflow, preventing excessive heat buildup.
- Moisture-wicking properties help keep your feet dry, reducing the risk of fungal infections.
- Stretchability ensures a snug yet comfortable fit without restricting circulation.
- Seamless designs minimize friction and skin irritation, crucial for sensitive pregnancy skin.
Pro Tip: Observe any skin reactions, swelling, or discomfort. Contact your healthcare provider if you notice these symptoms.
Sizing and Fit
Choosing the right size of compression ensures effectiveness and comfort. Consider these key points:
- Measure accurately: Your leg size can change during pregnancy. Measure the circumference at the widest part of your calves, smallest part of ankles, and length from the floor to just below the knee to find the perfect fit.
- Consult size charts: Use the manufacturer’s sizing chart as a guide. A proper fit should feel snug but not uncomfortably tight.
Pro Tip: Measure your legs in the morning when swelling is minimal. Swelling increases as the day progresses, which can skew your sizing.
Style and Aesthetics
Style and aesthetics matter when choosing compression socks. You’ll want a design that feels functional but also fits your personal style.
Here are some factors to consider:
- Plain or patterned: Compression socks come in simple, neutral tones or vibrant patterns. You can select a design that suits your wardrobe and mood.
- Functional style: Modern compression socks offer medical-grade support without sacrificing appearance, so you don’t feel limited to basic designs.
- Confidence boost: Wearing socks that reflect your style can make you feel more confident and comfortable, especially when they are visible in everyday outfits.
Pro Tip: Buy multiple pairs in different styles. Having both neutral tones for professional settings and fun patterns for casual days ensures you’ll actually wear them consistently. Mixing it up keeps the habit sustainable, so you don’t feel stuck wearing the same model every day.
Top 8 Best Compression Socks for Pregnancy
1. Duomed Compression Socks: Cost-Conscious Brand
Duomed compression socks are more than just basic support gear for pregnancy. They offer accurate graduated compression at an affordable price.
This feature ensures the compression is highest at the ankle and decreases up the leg, which effectively promotes better blood circulation and helps prevent issues like deep vein thrombosis and varicose veins during pregnancy.
Why We Love Them:
We love Duomed socks because they offer tailored support for different stages and symptoms of pregnancy. They are available in a variety of colors and fits that blend seamlessly with everyday wear.
Pro Tip: You can visit their collection directly through Healthy Legs.
2. Mediven Compression Socks: Premium Brand
Mediven compression socks are renowned for their advanced features. These socks utilize medically accurate graduated compression, which means the pressure is highest near the ankle and decreases up the leg.
This design helps improve blood flow, reduce swelling, and prevent the formation of varicose veins. Thus, they are an ideal choice for expecting mothers who need reliable support throughout their pregnancy.
The ClimaFresh feature offers odor protection and prevents bacterial growth, while ClimaComfort regulates moisture for temperature control and fresh feet and legs.
Mediven's range includes various styles and compression levels, catering to different needs and preferences.
Some customers report that there is a lack of patterns and colors options.
Why We Love Them:
We love Mediven compression socks for their dedication to combining expertise with functionality. They provide a level of comfort that respects your active lifestyle while ensuring you get the medical benefits needed during pregnancy. Plus, their variety of products means you can find exactly the right fit and compression level to support your health as your body changes.
Pro Tip: You can visit their collection directly through Healthy Legs.
3. Rejuva: Fashionable Brand of Compression Socks
Rejuva compression socks stand out for blending function with fashion.
Their compression technology works by applying graduated pressure, enhancing blood flow and reducing swelling.
Rejuva socks are designed for all-day comfort, featuring soft materials and beautiful patterns. They are a stylish choice for those who need compression without compromising on looks.
Why We Love Them:
We love Rejuva socks because they seamlessly combine style with functionality. Their designs are perfect for everyday wear. Plus, the fun patterns and colors make wearing compression socks a lot more enjoyable and less clinical.
Pro Tip: You can visit their collection directly through Healthy Legs.
4. Comrad Knee-High Compression Socks: Good for Long Periods of Sitting
Comrad Knee-High Compression Socks offer graduated compression to help improve blood circulation and reduce swelling.
Their socks are designed for all-day comfort, using moisture-wicking and antimicrobial materials that keep your feet dry. They also provide relief from daily leg aches and fatigue, though they are not best for medical-grade support.
These socks are also good during long periods of sitting, standing, and traveling.
However, customers notice that they can pill at the heels after more intense wear and after washing.
Why We Like Them:
Comrad Knee-High Compression Socks combine effective compression with breathable comfort. They are moisture-wicking and antimicrobial and come in different, stylish patterns. However, they might not be as durable as the previous brands we analyzed.
5. Kindred Bravely Premium Maternity Compression Socks: Soft Option
Kindred Bravely Premium Maternity Compression Socks provide targeted support during pregnancy by using graduated compression.
Made from a bamboo blend, they are soft, moisture-wicking, and comfortable for all-day wear. They come in two sizes that relieve soreness and improve circulation during pregnancy.
On the other hand, some customers have reported that the socks are not true to size, considering them too small and tight. Other people have also noticed the socks are difficult to put on in the later stages of pregnancy, though they appreciate the comfortable wear.
Why We Like Them:
Kindred Bravely Premium Maternity Compression Socks combine gentle compression with soft, breathable materials, making them both supportive and comfortable for long wear during pregnancy.
6. Bombas Women’s Everyday Compression Socks: Cushiony Socks
Bombas Women's Everyday Compression Socks offer a medium level of compression (15-20 mmHg) that's perfect for managing mild swelling and discomfort during pregnancy. The graduated compression helps improve blood flow and reduce leg fatigue.
These socks feature a cushioned footbed and honeycomb arch support, ensuring comfort for all-day wear. They're also made with moisture-wicking fabric, which keeps your feet dry and comfortable.
Customers appreciate the comfort and quality of the socks, noting that they're soft, offer good support, and don't cause discomfort behind the knees. They're also pleased with how easy the socks are to put on. However, some customers have mentioned that the socks tend to slip down.
Why We Like Them:
We love Bombas Women's Everyday Compression Socks because they provide the perfect blend of comfort, support, and moisture-wicking fabric, keeping your legs energized and dry during long days on your feet.
7. Clove Compression Socks: Best for Firm Support
Clove Compression Socks provide 20-30 mmHg of firm compression, making them ideal for improving blood flow, reducing swelling, and preventing discomfort.
Designed with cushioned soles, these socks ensure comfort during long periods of standing.
They also feature breathable, moisture-wicking fabrics, helping to keep your feet dry throughout the day.
However, these socks are best for firm, not mild support.
Why We Like Them:
Clove Compression Socks combines firm compression with cushioned comfort, perfect for long days on your feet while keeping you supported and pain-free during pregnancy.
8. Sockwell Women Compression Socks: Versatile Brand
Sockwell Women Compression Socks provide different levels of graduated compression. The brand offers products for day-to-day life, exercise, plantar fasciitis, bunions, and more.
Their socks are made from a blend of merino wool, so they offer natural moisture-wicking and temperature regulation. Therefore, they keep your feet dry and comfortable all day.
The firm compression levels relieve tired legs and prevent varicose veins, making them a great option for pregnancy support. However, some customers notice the socks tend to slip down after several hours of wearing them. Some models also have more threading inside, which can feel uncomfortable.
Why We Like Them:
Sockwell Women's Compression Socks are versatile and high-quality. They keep your legs energized and supported throughout pregnancy.
When to Wear Compression Socks During Pregnancy
Compression socks can be worn at different times during pregnancy for maximum benefit.
Here’s how to use them effectively:
- Morning: Put them on first thing in the morning, before swelling starts. This helps reduce fluid buildup in your legs throughout the day.
- Night: You typically don’t need to wear them while sleeping unless advised by your doctor.
Special circumstances:
- Travel: Wear them during flights or long car rides to help reduce the risk of blood clots and swelling.
- Extended standing or sitting: Use compression socks if you’ll be on your feet all day or sitting for long periods. They improve circulation and prevent discomfort.
Postpartum benefits:
- Postpartum support: Compression socks can still help reduce swelling and promote circulation after childbirth, especially if you experience prolonged sitting or bed rest.
Wear them consistently for the best results.
Maximize Comfort and Circulation: Best Compression Socks for a Healthier Pregnancy
Choosing the right compression socks for pregnancy is key to staying comfortable and maintaining healthy circulation.
The right pair can reduce swelling, prevent varicose veins, and alleviate leg fatigue.
Whether you’re dealing with mild discomfort or more serious symptoms, the recommended socks in this guide offer tailored solutions for every stage of pregnancy.
Make sure to consult your healthcare provider to find the best fit and compression level for your needs.
If you want to do further research, consider one of these options to enhance your comfort and protect your health during this special time.
Frequently Asked Questions
How can I relieve heavy legs during pregnancy?
To relieve heavy legs during pregnancy, you can try elevating your legs whenever possible, staying physically active through low-impact exercises like walking or swimming, and wearing compression socks. You can also consider gentle stretching and taking regular breaks if you sit or stand for long periods to further alleviate discomfort. These methods help improve circulation and reduce swelling in the legs.
Why do my legs feel heavy in early pregnancy?
The sensation of heavy legs in early pregnancy is caused by increased blood volume and hormonal changes that naturally occur as your body adjusts to support the growing baby. These changes can slow down circulation, especially in the lower limbs, leading to feelings of heaviness, swelling, or even achiness in the legs.
Do compression socks help prevent blood clots during pregnancy?
Yes, wearing compression socks can improve blood circulation and help prevent the formation of blood clots, particularly in pregnant women who may be more prone to them due to inactivity or prolonged periods of sitting or standing.
Should you wear compression socks while pregnant?
Yes, wearing compression socks during pregnancy is often recommended to help manage leg swelling, discomfort, and fatigue. They can also support circulation and reduce the risk of blood clots.
What is the best compression sock pressure for pregnancy?
The ideal compression level for pregnancy depends on the severity of your symptoms. For mild swelling and discomfort, 10-15 mmHg compression socks may be sufficient. For moderate symptoms, such as increased swelling or fatigue, a 15-20 mmHg pressure level is more appropriate. If you're experiencing severe swelling, varicose veins, or are at risk of blood clots, your doctor may recommend a stronger compression level, around 20-30 mmHg.
What are the possible side effects of compression socks?
Compression socks generally offer many benefits, but if they are too tight or improperly fitted, they may cause discomfort, skin irritation, or even restrict circulation. Be sure to measure your legs carefully and consult with a professional if you're unsure about the proper size or compression level for you. Also, avoid wearing them if you notice excessive tightness or any unusual discomfort.
What type of compression socks are recommended for pregnancy?
Graduated compression socks are ideal in pregnancy. These socks apply more pressure at the ankle and gradually decrease as they go up the leg, which encourages proper blood flow back to the heart. Knee-high socks are commonly recommended for pregnancy, as they provide effective support while remaining easy to wear throughout the day.
How do you properly use maternity compression socks?
To get the most benefit, maternity compression socks should be worn in the morning before any swelling begins. This helps prevent fluid buildup in your legs throughout the day. Be sure to remove them before going to bed at night, unless your healthcare provider has advised otherwise.
Can I wear compression socks while working out during pregnancy?
Yes, wearing compression socks during exercise while pregnant can provide additional support by improving circulation, reducing leg fatigue, and helping to prevent swelling. They are particularly helpful for workouts that involve prolonged standing or sitting, such as long walks or stationary cycling.
How long should I wear compression socks during pregnancy?
It’s generally recommended to wear compression socks throughout the time of day especially during which you’ll be standing or sitting for long periods. Many pregnant women find relief by putting them on first thing in the morning or at the time of getting dressed, and wearing them until the end of the day, when swelling and discomfort are typically at their worst.
When is the best time to wear compression socks during pregnancy?
The best time to wear compression socks during pregnancy is in the morning, or when you are first getting up before your legs start to swell. Keep them on especially during periods when you'll be standing or sitting for extended amounts of time. This can help prevent the buildup of fluid and keep your legs feeling more comfortable.
Is it safe to wear compression socks at night during pregnancy?
It’s generally not recommended to wear compression socks while sleeping unless specifically advised by your healthcare provider. Most women find that their legs naturally swell less when lying down, so the benefits of compression socks are not needed at night. However, in certain cases, such as for women at higher risk of blood clots, a doctor may advise wearing them overnight.
Should I wear compression socks when flying while pregnant?
Yes, wearing compression socks while flying during pregnancy is highly recommended. Long flights can increase the risk of swelling and blood clots due to prolonged sitting. Compression socks help maintain good circulation, reduce the risk of deep vein thrombosis (DVT), and minimize swelling, making them an essential travel item for pregnant women.
