Pregnancy causes many changes throughout a woman's body, and the feet are no exception. Fortunately, these changes are relatively benign and can be addressed without extraordinary effort.
The complex process of creating a new life requires that a woman carry extra weight around with her at all times. As with people who are overweight, this causes the mother to alter her stance and pronate, which flattens out her feet, stretching out and irritating her plantar fascia. If left untreated, it may result in pain along the bottom of the heel. However, this can be addressed with orthotics. Your podiatrist will be able provide guidance as to what is the best orthotic for your condition.
Another change has to do with circulation. When our blood circulates through the foot and leg, our veins are designed to carry it back up to the heart using a system of valves and muscles not unlike the locks in the Panama Canal. Under normal circumstances, some of the serum (the watery component of blood) will leak out and accumulate in the feet. It is not uncommon, however, for the drainage mechanism in expectant mothers to not function as efficiently. Consequently, more fluid leaks and accumulates in the feet, resulting in swelling, also known as edema. (See the link for treatment options.) You should not be surprised if you need to buy larger shoes to fit your feet!
One thing you should not change is your exercise routine. In other words, if you're doing it, great, keep it up, but if not, now is not the proper time to start a vigorous regimen. Exercising is associated with shorter and easier labors. However, your body will warn you if you're overdoing it—bleeding, nausea, faintness, and shortness of breath are all signs that you need to cut back. Both your podiatrist and your OBGYN will be able to help you determine an appropriate level of activity.
