Varicose veins often appear during pregnancy.

The reasons are mainly due to the physiological hypertension of the blood circulatory system of the lower limbs due to the compression of the uterus on pelvic veins and on the cava vein and to the particular development of female hormones that tend to make the venous system fragile.

At the appearance of varicose veins during pregnancy, both new varicose veins and relapses, elastocompressive therapies are recommended as well as proper daily behaviours such as rest, keeping the legs elevated and, when possible, bedrest on the left side.

Even valvular varicose veins must be treated with a local compressive therapy.

After delivery, it is a good idea to carry on the same therapy and behaviours for at least nine more months. In fact, a natural reduction of the problem, if not its complete disappearance, is very frequent and probable.

Destructive therapies of any kind as well as any surgical therapy must be avoided during this period.

Haemodynamic examination performed by a specialist is always advisable.

A light elastic stocking and the habit of keeping the legs slightly elevated during pregnancy are very useful behaviours for all women in order to help the venous circulatory systems and reduce the probability of the appearance of varicose veins.