What can I do for swollen feet and ankles during pregnancy?

This Premium Q&A, reviewed and published, features a real conversation between an iCliniq user and a physician.

Patient's Query

Hello doctor,

I am six months pregnant. I have swollen feet and ankles. It hurts when water runs over them. I also have lower back pain and some dizziness. Kindly help.

Answered by Dr. Donalyn Sepina Barcial

Hello,

Welcome to icliniq.com.

A pregnant woman usually has edema (swollen lower extremities), especially if she has been standing for quite long time. However, it is never tender but just heavy. It spontaneously resolves when she places her feet at least two pillows higher than her body or only by little elevation. In your case, we must rule out the possibility of cellulitis. It is a condition, as how you described, swollen feet or ankles, usually pinkish or erythematous and tender to touch, sometimes warm to touch. Your symptoms are not the usual findings of a pregnant woman and must be seen immediately in the emergency room to give you first aid in the event of a possible infection. It is also best that you have your blood pressure taken since a pregnant women with edema usually has elevated blood pressure.

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Answered by Dr. Donalyn Sepina Barcial

Medically reviewed by Dr. Nithila. A

May 22, 2019

August 20, 2025

Same symptoms don't mean you have the same problem. Consult a doctor now!