Will Spider Veins Go Away After Pregnancy?

Jeffrey H. Miller, M.D.
1 day ago
3 min read

Updated: 2 hours ago

Pregnancy comes with many changes to the body. This can include changes to your veins. If you’ve noticed small, web-like red, blue, or purple veins appearing on your body after pregnancy, you’re not alone.

These veins are called spider veins and they are incredibly common, thanks to shifting hormones, increased blood volume, and the physical pressure of carrying a baby.

A thumbnail with the title "Will Spider Veins Go Away After Pregnancy?" with an image of a pregnant woman.

What are Spider Veins?

Spider veins are small web-like networks of red, blue, or purple veins that are usually 1mm or less in diameter. They can appear anywhere on the body but are most commonly found on the legs or face.

These veins can develop due to genetics, hormonal changes, prolonged sitting or standing, or sun exposure. Though generally harmless, they can cause discomfort or affect confidence.

What Are Some Symptoms of Spider Veins?

Because symptoms for spider veins are typically harmless, they are considered a cosmetic condition. Common symptoms include:

Itching
Burning
Swelling
Cosmetic concerns

However, spider veins can signal underlying conditions like venous reflux disease or chronic venous insufficiency.

Why Do Spider Veins Develop During Pregnancy?

During pregnancy, the body undergoes many changes—the development of spider veins is one of them.

One major change is an increase in blood volume. This increase in blood can place additional pressure on the veins. Spider veins become visible when the small, one-way valves in the veins weaken, allowing blood to flow backwards and pool.

The pressure forces the vein to bulge and appear on the skin's surface. Spider veins may occur in specific areas of the body and are most common in the first half of pregnancy.

Can I Be Treated For Spider Veins During Pregnancy?

Yes, spider veins can be treated during pregnancy. However, many doctors recommend waiting until after pregnancy for certain treatment methods.

Though spider vein treatment methods are safe, certain methods require injecting medication into the veins. Because the fetus receives nutrients from the mother's veins, it is recommended to wait until the pregnancy is over.

In rare cases, spider veins may develop complications such as a blood clot. If you notice redness, significant swelling, or tenderness in the area, contact your doctor.

Can Spider Veins Be Prevented During Pregnancy?

Spider veins typically do not disappear without treatment, but you can take steps to help prevent them from developing:

Exercise regularly to promote healthy blood flow
Keep legs elevated when possible
Avoid prolonged standing or sitting
Wear compression socks
Maintain a healthy pregnancy weight

In Conclusion

Spider veins are a common side effect of pregnancy. For many women, these small, web-like veins begin to fade on their own after pregnancy as hormone levels stabilize and blood circulation returns to normal. However, if spider veins linger or become more noticeable, safe and effective treatments are available.

If you are interested in the services Miller Vein has to offer, click here to learn more about spider veins and available treatment options.

References

Taylor, Martin. (2024, October 29). Spider Veins During Pregnancy: What to Know. WebMD. https://www.webmd.com/baby/what-to-spider-veins-during-pregnancy

Stop Letting Your Legs Hold You Back

If you have restlessness, heaviness, aching, swelling, throbbing, or itchiness in your legs—or you notice varicose veins or spider veins—it's time to see a vein specialist.

Schedule an appointment today!