Finding out that you are pregnant is both a scary and exciting feeling for any woman. However, one of the many things that suck about being pregnant is experiencing swelling legs. They not only swell but also bring along a lot of discomfort and complications. While swelling can occur at any period of pregnancy, most mothers experience it during the fifth month. This will likely get worse during the third trimester.
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It is due to this that you need compression socks. Regardless of whether you are experiencing or preparing for such an eventuality, shopping for the best compression socks for pregnancy to help with swelling is prudent. The socks are not only non-invasive treatment to swelling but also helps in covering the unsightly varicose veins from displaying, especially if your daily work involves standing up for lengthy periods.
What may make your search process challenging is the plenty of compression socks available in the market. You might actually want to consult with your doctor for the best recommendation. Understanding the various types and features to look for in these socks make it easier to find the best. You can as well check out our list to find the best options available on the market.
Top 5 Compression Socks for Pregnancy
1. SB Sox Compression Socks
Despite the company being relatively new as it started producing compression socks in 2016, the SB Sox Compression Socks are not of inferior quality. A glance at the Amazon ratings of these products is enough to inform of their awesome quality. The majority of those who prefer these socks like them because they are made from a family-owned business. This means the passion to provide solutions for pregnant mothers is there.
That aside, the SB Sox Compression Socks is well known for the attention and customer support provided. They answer to every question, comment or request almost immediately. They even go the extra mile of sending a free e-book and customer service FAQ for every purchase made by the customers.
Back to the product, the SB Sox Compression Socks is a clean and cool designed pair of socks. While they don’t focus on fancy designs, you can be sure you will be rocking high-performance socks. They have the highest compression ratings compared to the majority of the products on this list but guarantee comfort to the wearer.
Apart from ensuring good circulation and increased oxygen to your legs, these compression socks have cushioned heels with toe support hat offer exemplary comfort.
Pros
- High-performance socks
- Available in multiple sizes and colors
- Comfortable to wear
Cons
- Quite pricey
2. Nurse Mates Compression Socks
From the name, you are excused to think that these compression socks were made specifically for nurses. The Nurse Mates Compression Socks can also benefit pregnant women looking for the best compression socks for pregnancy. Probably the best feature of these socks is that they come with the right amount of compression. The main reason why nurses prefer is that they offer just enough compression as they have to put up with long periods of standing.
With these pair of socks, you can be sure of no more hurting and swelling feet at the end of the day. Even if you wore them at home after experiencing swollen feet, you will have a lot to thank for at the end due to their relieving nature. Another reason to love the Nurse Mates Compression Socks is that their compression doesn’t extend down to the toes.
For most compression socks, women feel as if their toes are squished and make them uncomfortable, especially when worn the whole day. However, you shouldn’t expect such from these socks. You will also like the color and design, which appear fun and exciting for medical and non-medical persons. The inclusion of more color makes them vibrant, thus suitable for pregnant women.
If you are looking for extra tight compression and support, the Nurse Mates Compression Socks might not be the best choice. According to Amazon reviews, some women find them quite loose and won’t cover their legs properly. Regardless, they provide sufficient compression for basic pregnancy needs.
Pros
- Medical grade design
- Available in multiple colors
- Affordable
Cons
- Only available in one size
3. Fytto 1020 Compression Socks
Pregnant women who still have to attend to professional duties should go for the Fytto 1020 Compression Socks. They are a great addition to any pregnant woman’s wardrobe who don’t believe that swelling legs and feet doesn’t stop their career or prevents them from achieving their goals.
Those who have used these socks like that they come with true graduated compression kitting, which provides high pressure concentrated around the ankle area. The pressure starts from the ankle area at 20mmHg and decreases towards the calf to about 15mmHg. The distribution of pressure helps in relaxing the calf muscles and relieve stress and swelling.
Apart from its incredible functionality, the Fytto 1020 Compression Socks feature a special knitting pattern that makes them comfortable and breathable for everyday use. Regardless if you decide to wear them for work, travel or a casual day as you take on chores at home, they ease stress and improve circulation in the legs.
Amidst all these incredible features, some users complained that the elastic material at the top of these socks don’t work well. For some, it became too narrow and cut into their legs after a few hours of use. Others reported itching and rashes around the elastic area. They are also comparably long, even for tall women. From the manufacturer’s point of view, these individual issues do not represent the general drawbacks of these socks.
Pros
- Multiple size and color options
- Sufficient compression
- Relieves stress around calves, legs and feet
Cons
- Extra long
- No open toe
4. Newzill Compression Socks
If you are looking to add some more color into your swelling legs, the Newzill Compression Socks should be your stockings of choice. Just because you are dealing with pregnancy-associated edema doesn’t mean you should get stuck with boring and neutral compression stockings. In the spirit and excitement brought by the pregnancy, consider getting this awesome pair of compression stockings from Newzill.
For starters, you will love the bright colors the socks come in. Whereas moms to be might not fancy putting them on around town and showing off, they will like being seen with them at home. The color combination is colorful and playful to brighten your pregnancy moods.
The Newzill Compression Socks are not just about exciting looks. They offer sufficient compression that help in stimulating blood flow thus improved oxygen delivery to the muscles. With this, you can comfortably say goodbye to muscle cramps, unnecessary swelling, and fatigue. They also help pregnant women recover from varicose veins, spider veins, and other pregnancy-associated leg problems.
It is also worth noting the material make of these compression socks. If you constantly worry about smelling feet, the Newzill Compression Socks will take your mind off such issues. The socks are made from the right materials and good technology that helps prevent the growth of bacteria and fungi. The patented Clima-pro system technology makes the socks breathable and prevents any odor. It also helps in maintaining reliable temperature, ensuring protection regardless of prevailing weather conditions.
Pros
- Available in multiple size and colors
- Good compression rating
- Good looking
Cons
- Doesn’t have an open toe
5. Truform 1772 Compression Stockings
If you doubted the ability of stockings to function as compression socks, you should think again. There are multiple compression stockings available for both pregnant women and others prescribed by doctors to relieve swelling and fatigue in their legs. That said, there are many reasons why you should consider using the Truform 1772 Compression Stockings.
To begin, despite the simple appearance they present with, the design feature five intervals of graduated compression that deliver the most effective performance to users. Due to this, the greatest compression is found in the ankle area, which then decreases gradually as it goes upwards. You will also like how the stocking was designed with valves, veins and muscle pumps in mind to ensure that they maintain a good blood circulation for a healthy leg.
Apart from excellent functionality, you should also consider the Truform 1772 Compression Stockings not only for pregnancy but also for everyday use as it helps conceal unsightly conditions. Women suffering from varicose veins and swollen legs and feet due to long period of standing will find them beneficial.
The stockings also save on cost as they can be used for casual and business wear. They are great for use during warm weather, as they allow your toes to breathe. They hold up well also despite continuous use, withstanding numerous washings to support your legs and feet well.
Pros
- Open toe design
- Durable and long lasting
- Great compression pressure
- Available in multiple sizes and colors
Cons
- Some don’t prefer the open toe design
Compression Socks for Pregnancy Buying Guide
Finding the right compression socks means that you identify where you need the most. As mentioned, there are several types of compression stocks. Some things to keep in mind as you head out shopping include;
Length
Compression socks for pregnancy are classified into three categories based on their lengths. They include;
- Knee-high socks – as the name suggests, they extend into the knee and provide relief from swelling that extends from the ankle to the calf.
- Thigh-high compression socks – they provide similar benefits as knee-high stockings but with additional relief to the thighs.
- Full-length pantyhose – they are the best for those suffering from pain due to swelling at the back down to the toes.
Based on the descriptions above, you might be convinced that full-length versions are the best. Well, they truly provide the much-needed protection. However, they are quite a hassle to put on. Note that the more these stockings cover your body, the harder they are to put on. Also, remember that you have to deal with the growing belly.
Strength
Compression socks are made from rubber and elastic fibers that provide the required compression to increase circulation. Nevertheless, there are several levels of compression with varying pressure ranges. The various levels include;
- Light compression – provides relief for basic aching and tired legs. (8 – 15 mmHg)
- Moderate compression – best for travel during pregnancy (15 – 20 mmHg)
- Firm compression – best for varicose veins and developing edema (20 – 30 mmHg)
- Extra-firm compression – a good choice for edema and lymphedema (30 – 40 mmHg)
- Severe compression – used under physician’s care (40 – 50 mmHg)
Before settling on a specific pair, it is good to consult your doctor. Note that you might find these compression socks uncomfortable at first. Therefore, begin with lower level socks and work your way up to socks with high strength.
Ease of Use
Compression socks can be quite challenging to put on, especially when using those with higher strengths. Besides, during pregnancy, your flexibility is overly limited. If you are feeling stiff and finding it difficult to bend, full-length compression socks will definitely be difficult to put on. For this case, consider knee-length socks.
Benefits of Wearing Compression Socks
Compression socks offer their benefits to everyone but are more beneficial for pregnant women. Among the benefits of these socks, include;
- Prevents the development of varicose veins
- Decrease pain and aching for pregnant women who spend the majority of their day standing
- Helps in preventing blood clots by preventing blood from pooling in the lower legs
- They boost the backflow of blood to the heart
The Bottom Line
Compression socks come in handy in ensuring your legs are healthy during pregnancy. Common leg problems, including the development of varicose veins, hormonal changes, and Deep Venus Thrombosis increase blood coagulability. Proper blood flow is restricted as the uterus grows and body changes. As the blood volume increases, hormonal changes within the body cause the walls of veins to dilate and lose elasticity.
It is due to this that compression socks are essential. They help alleviate leg pain, reduce swelling and the heavy feeling in the legs. They also prevent the formation of edema, spider veins, and varicose veins. From the various compression socks mentioned above, the SB Sox Compression Socks come top. They provide medium compression pressure, ranging from 20 – 30 mmHg. They are also affordable and long-lasting.
