A Few Words for the Expectant Mother

As your pregnancy develops, you may develop spider veins, varicose veins, edema and fatigue. Often, you may find your feet and ankles are swollen by the end of the day. A good way to prevent these problems is to wear graduated compression hosiery (knee-highs, thigh-highs or maternity pantyhose). Maternity pantyhose:

• Ease leg cramps
• Diminish or prevent varicose veins
• Reduce edema or swelling
• Alleviate leg pain
• Help prevent deep vein thrombosis (DVT)

A Few Important Facts

Compression pantyhose are not the same thing as regular nylon stockings, tights, or elastic hosiery.

Compression therapy works by using spandex fibers woven into the hosiery that applies graduated pressure to the legs and leg veins helping blood circulate more easily.

Graduated compression means more pressure is applied to the lower part of the leg than to the upper.

Lower levels of compression, such as 8-15mmHg are best for milder symptoms. For more severe symptoms, higher levels of compression are needed.

The correct level of compression and a properly fitting garment are essential for getting the best results.

Maternity pantyhose are usually put on first thing in the morning and then removed right before bed time.

Be sure to consult the brand-specific size chart for the brand of maternity pantyhose your are selecting.

Don't guess at the level of compression you need - ask your doctor.

The chart below provides the brand names of the maternity pantyhose and the levels of compression provided by BrightLife Direct.