• heredity;
• constipation ? constant bearing down during bowel movement can result in varicose veins, especially haemorrhoids (piles);
• standing and sitting for long periods;
• sitting cross-legged;
• too tight clothing such as restrictive underwear or tight jeans;
• being overweight;
• if you had varicose veins in a previous pregnancy, you will most likely have them in subsequent pregnancies;
• your enlarging uterus which exerts pressure on the veins of the lower body.

Varicose veins occur mainly in the legs and ankles, vulval and anal areas (haemorrhoids or piles). They can be recognised as fine blueish veins which can become thick, long and twisted. Other symptoms are aching, heavy legs; swelling and pain in legs and ankles; itching at vein sites; redness, bleeding and ulcers (less common). Contact your caregiver should you notice the latter, more serious signs.

Exercise A good walk or a swim is great. Circle your ankles one at a time while sitting in a chair. Vitamin C may help strengthen blood vessel walls. Consult your caregiver about dosage.

Avoid tight-fitting clothes They can restrict blood vessels, putting pressure on them while slowing down the blood flow.

Avoid very hot baths and saunas They can cause veins to dilate.

Special support stockings can be worn Easier said than done in hot weather! It's best to put stockings on before you get up in the morning. Ask your medical aid if they will cover this good product.

Immerse your legs in cold water for half an hour Water has nine times the pressure of support stockings. p> Warm sitz (salt) baths They can help haemorrhoids, as can cold packs or ice cubes in a plastic bag, placed in the anal area. Local applications of witch hazel can be used for the relief of pain and swelling. Homeopathic and medical preparations can be prescribed by your caregiver.

After delivery, move your legs as soon as possible (whether you've had a vaginal or caesarean birth) Alternate extending and flexing of feet and legs. Walk the dog, baby or husband briskly. Postnatal exercise, emphasising lower body and legs, may help.

After delivery, varicose veins may lessen and even disappear. However, if this does not happen, several new procedures can be attempted before surgical options become necessary.

Sclerotherapy involves injecting the vein with hypertonic saline solution, causing the vein to be absorbed, and has been used fairly successfully. Laser therapy can be done for smaller veins.

Recently, Rulsed light therapy is becoming an option. Surgical removal of the affected vein may be necessary. All these procedures must be done by professionals experienced in the field of treatment of varicose veins. The risks and benefits should be explained so you can choose the best option.

• These can happen during pregnancy and normally disappear after delivery.
• Mom may feel a heavy, uncomfortable sensation vaginally. On examination (with a mirror if the mom wants to see!) these swollen veins look unsightly and are found at the entrance of the vagina on the labia.
• Intercourse can become difficult. Explain to your partner that this is a temporary problem. It could give you both an opportunity to become more creative!
• Rest with your legs elevated. Place a pillow under your bottom. This can reduce the swelling and alleviate pains. Bring your condition to your caregiver's attention because occasionally, if the condition is particularly troublesome, a caesarean birth may be necessary.