Pregnancy can be tough on your legs, between swollen ankles, tired feet, and that heavy feeling by the end of the day, it's no surprise so many mums-to-be are turning to compression socks for relief.
These socks aren’t just for comfort, they help boost circulation, reduce swelling, and give your legs the daily support they need.
In this guide, we’ll cover when to wear compression socks during pregnancy, how they help at each stage (including postpartum), which compression levels are right for you, and a few expert tips to get the most out of them.
Why Do Pregnant Women Wear Compression Socks?
Pregnancy changes your body in beautiful ways, but it can also take a toll on your legs. Let’s break down why wearing compression socks during pregnancy is more than just a comfort choice, it’s a smart, supportive step for your health.
How Pregnancy Affects Blood Circulation and Veins?
When you're pregnant, your body produces up to 50% more blood volume to support your growing baby. This extra blood puts pressure on your veins, especially in your lower body, and slows down venous return, the process that pushes blood back up to your heart.
At the same time, the hormone progesterone relaxes your vein walls. While this helps your uterus expand, it can also cause blood to pool in the legs, leading to swelling and discomfort.
By the third trimester, your uterus is heavier and pressing on the inferior vena cava, a large vein that carries blood from your legs back to your heart. This pressure makes it harder for your body to circulate blood efficiently, especially when you’re standing or sitting for long periods.
Common Symptoms: Swelling, Varicose Veins, and Leg Heaviness
If you've noticed your feet or ankles puffing up by mid-day, you're not alone. Around 80% of pregnant women experience leg or ankle swelling, especially in the third trimester.
Here’s what might show up:
- Swelling (oedema): Fluid builds up in the lower legs and feet due to sluggish blood flow and increased pressure.
- Varicose veins: Up to 40% of first-time pregnancies develop varicose veins, swollen, twisted veins visible on the surface of the skin.
- Leg heaviness or fatigue: That dragging, tired feeling can start early and get worse over time.
See practical tips on How to Prevent Varicose Veins during pregnancy.
What Compression Socks Actually Do?
Compression socks apply gentle, graduated pressure to your legs, tighter at the ankle and looser as they move upward. This supports your veins and helps push blood back toward your heart.
Here’s how they help:
- Boost circulation by preventing blood from pooling in the lower legs.
- Reduce swelling and keep fluid from building up in ankles and feet.
- Ease pressure on veins to lower your chances of developing varicose veins or deep vein thrombosis (DVT).
- Improve leg energy, you’ll feel lighter and more supported throughout the day.
They’re especially useful if you’re on your feet a lot, sit for long periods, or have a history of vein issues.
Learn more about How Do You Treat Deep Vein Thrombosis if you're managing DVT symptoms or recovery.
Do I really need compression socks if I’m only in my second trimester?
Yes, even early signs of swelling can benefit from light-grade compression.
Starting early can actually prevent more serious symptoms later, especially if you’ve noticed any ankle puffiness or mild discomfort when standing. Think of them as a preventive tool, not just a treatment.
When Should You Start Wearing Compression Stockings in Pregnancy?
There’s no one-size-fits-all moment, it depends on your body and daily routine. Let’s look at when compression stockings can be most helpful across each stage of your pregnancy.
Early Pregnancy (First Trimester)
Even though many people wait until later trimesters to wear compression stockings, starting in the first trimester can actually prevent issues before they start, especially if you're at higher risk.
You might consider wearing maternity compression socks early if:
- You have a personal or family history of varicose veins
- You work long hours on your feet, like in retail, hospitality, or healthcare
- You’ve already started to feel mild leg fatigue or heaviness
I work retail - should I wear them now?
Yes! Prevention is better than cure. Starting early can support healthy blood flow and ease discomfort before swelling gets worse.
Wearing low to moderate compression socks (15–20 mmHg) at this stage is usually safe and well-tolerated. Always double-check with your GP or midwife if you're unsure.
Mid to Late Pregnancy (Second & Third Trimester)
This is the most common time to begin using compression stockings, and when most mums-to-be start noticing signs like ankle swelling, leg cramps, or visible veins.
Why now?
- Your blood volume peaks and your uterus grows large enough to press on the inferior vena cava (the major vein that carries blood from your lower body to your heart).
- Gravity slows down circulation, especially when you sit or stand too long.
- You may retain more fluid, causing that end-of-day puffiness.
Wearing compression stockings daily can:
- Reduce fluid build-up in the ankles
- Prevent new varicose veins
- Ease the heaviness or aching in your legs
Start putting compression socks on before getting out of bed in the morning for the best results, that’s when your legs are least swollen.
Try these tips on How to Get Rid of Swollen Ankles Fast?
Postpartum Recovery Period
The benefits don’t stop once you give birth, in fact, postnatal compression support is often recommended during recovery.
During this time:
- Your body is adjusting to blood volume changes again.
- You're moving less, especially after a cesarean or difficult labour.
- There's still a risk of deep vein thrombosis (DVT), especially in the first 6 weeks postpartum.
Compression stockings can support blood flow, reduce swelling, and help you feel more mobile, especially if you’re spending more time in bed or on the couch.
They can be especially helpful after a C-section when mobility is restricted and the risk of blood clots increases.
Best Times of Day to Wear Compression Stockings While Pregnant
Wearing compression stockings during pregnancy works best when timed right. Here’s when to wear them for the biggest benefits, depending on your daily routine.
Morning (Before Getting Out of Bed)
The best time to put on your compression stockings is right after waking up before your feet touch the floor.
Why? While you're lying flat overnight, your body naturally redistributes fluids. As soon as you stand, gravity pulls blood and fluid down to your legs. That’s when swelling can start building up quickly, especially during pregnancy when veins are already under pressure.
Wearing compression stockings first thing in the morning:
- Helps trap that balanced fluid distribution from overnight
- Prevents sudden pooling of blood in your ankles and feet
- Maximises effectiveness because stockings work best when legs are least swollen
Pro tip:
Slide them on while lying flat, it’s easier and works better.
It also helps avoid that frustrating mid-morning swelling that can make stockings harder to wear later.
During Long Periods of Sitting or Standing
Whether you’re sitting at a desk, working a standing shift, or going on a long-haul flight, wearing DVT stockings during pregnancy is a smart move.
Why it matters:
- Prolonged sitting or standing slows venous return, increasing pressure in your lower legs
- This can lead to heaviness, throbbing, or ankle swelling, especially in the third trimester
- Immobility increases the risk of DVT, a serious condition where a blood clot forms in a deep vein
I sit at a desk all day, will it help?
Absolutely. Wearing graduated compression stockings helps reduce blood pooling, keeps circulation flowing, and makes your legs feel more energised by the end of the day.
Check out How to Improve Blood Flow to Feet? for everyday circulation tips.
After a Long Day on Your Feet
If your feet feel puffy or your calves are aching at the end of the day, you’re not alone. It’s common for pregnant women to experience progressive swelling by evening, especially if you’ve been active or on your feet.
In such cases, light compression stockings like our travel stockings can help relieve discomfort and improve leg circulation in the evening.
When to wear them:
- After you get home and kick off your shoes
- While cooking dinner, relaxing on the couch, or doing evening chores
- For gentle recovery after long hours of standing or walking
Compression stockings are not usually recommended overnight unless your doctor specifically prescribes them for a medical condition like post-thrombotic syndrome or high DVT risk.
Instead, elevating your legs while wearing light compression can boost venous return and reduce inflammation, a simple, effective routine you can add to your wind-down time.
What Compression Level Is Best for Pregnancy?
Not all compression socks are made equal, choosing the right pressure level makes a huge difference in how well they work for you during pregnancy.
Understanding Compression Levels (Measured in mmHg)
(mmHg = millimetres of mercury – the unit used to measure pressure)
- Light Compression (15–20 mmHg) - Great for mild swelling, tired legs, and preventive use in early pregnancy.
- Moderate Compression (20–30 mmHg) - Ideal for moderate varicose veins, long working hours, and ongoing swelling.
- Firm Compression (30–40 mmHg) - Used for medical conditions like DVT or post-surgical support, must be prescribed.
Need help with sizing?
Check out our easy Compression Size Chart for Legs to find your best fit.
Can I just buy any compression socks online?
Not quite, wearing the wrong pressure level might not give results or could feel uncomfortable.
It's always a good idea to speak with your GP, midwife, or vascular specialist to know what’s right for you.
Safety Tips and When to Talk to Your Doctor
Wearing compression stockings during pregnancy is generally safe, but a few smart precautions go a long way.
Compression Safety Tips for Pregnancy
- Always choose the right compression level for your needs, start with light to moderate unless otherwise prescribed.
- Ensure a proper fit, socks should be snug, not tight or painful.
- Avoid rolling or folding the tops, this can restrict blood flow.
- Don’t wear compression socks while sleeping, unless your doctor recommends it.
- Speak to your healthcare provider if you have circulatory issues, diabetes, or skin sensitivities.
When to Talk to Your Doctor?
- If you have a history of deep vein thrombosis (DVT) or clotting disorders
- If swelling worsens suddenly or only affects one leg
- If you feel numbness, tingling, or discomfort while wearing the stockings
- To confirm the right compression pressure and duration for your stage of pregnancy
Conclusion
Pregnancy brings plenty of changes and your legs feel it more than you might think. In this guide, we explored when to wear compression socks during pregnancy, how they help at each stage, what compression levels work best, and the importance of daily routines like putting them on in the morning or wearing them during travel or long work hours.
We also covered:
- Why swelling, varicose veins, and leg heaviness happen
- The right timing to start using maternity pressure stockings
- Real-life tips on choosing safe, comfortable options
- Practical FAQs many mums-to-be often ask
If you're ready to find reliable, comfortable support for your legs, visit Compression Stockings Online, Australia's trusted destination for high-quality compression garments from leading brands like Sigvaris, Jobst, and Juzo. From stockings and pantyhose to wound care or wraps and compression arm sleeves made with mums in mind.
Frequently Asked Questions – Real Questions from Real Mums
How long should I wear compression stockings while pregnant each day?
You can wear maternity pressure stockings for about 8 to 12 hours a day, especially during active hours. Take them off before bed unless your doctor tells you otherwise.
Is it safe to wear compression socks while flying during pregnancy?
Yes, in fact, wearing DVT stockings during pregnancy flights can help prevent blood clots. Put them on before boarding and keep moving your legs during long flights.
Why should you avoid wearing compression socks overnight?
Unless prescribed, wearing compression stockings during pregnancy while sleeping can reduce natural skin circulation. They're most effective when you’re upright and gravity is affecting your legs.
Should I still wear compression socks if I sit all day at work?
Absolutely. If you’re sitting at a desk or behind a counter all day, compression pantyhose for varicose veins can help reduce fluid buildup and ease pressure in your legs.
Where does the swelling fluid go when I wear compression socks?
Compression garments gently push trapped fluid back into your lymphatic system and blood vessels, helping it move through your body and eventually be filtered out through natural processes.
Can I take a day off from wearing compression socks?
You can, but if you're dealing with ongoing swelling, heaviness, or circulation issues, it's better to wear them consistently for maximum benefit, especially in the third trimester.
Are there any signs my compression socks might be too tight?
If you notice tingling, numbness, red marks, or discomfort, they may not be the right size. Check your sizing using a compression size chart or consult your GP.
Are compression socks good for pregnancy-related foot pain?
Yes, compression socks for pregnancy improve circulation and reduce foot fatigue, especially when worn during long standing hours or walks.
When does pregnancy swelling usually start?
Most women start noticing swelling in the second trimester, often in the ankles and feet. Wearing varicose stockings for women early can help manage it before it gets worse.
What’s the best way to use compression socks with other swelling remedies?
Combine them with elevating your legs, staying hydrated, walking daily, and avoiding salty foods. This holistic approach supports circulation throughout pregnancy.
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