Facebook Twitter Instagram
Book Your Consulation

Do Varicose Veins Go Away After Pregnancy? What to Expect

Varicose veins are a common occurrence during pregnancy, affecting approximately 40% of pregnant women. This high prevalence underscores the importance of understanding this condition and its implications for maternal health.
Category:
August 26, 2025

By :

Colorado Skin & Vein

diet plan

Pregnancy is a rollercoaster of emotions and physical changes. While you’re busy picking out cute onesies and debating baby names, your body is working overtime to support your growing little one. But sometimes, this incredible journey comes with unexpected passengers – like varicose veins. These twisted, bulging veins can be more than just a cosmetic concern. So, when should you trade your pregnancy pillow for a doctor’s appointment? Let’s dive in and find out!

The Prevalence of Varicose Veins in Pregnancy

Varicose veins are a common occurrence during pregnancy, affecting approximately 40% of pregnant women. This high prevalence underscores the importance of understanding this condition and its implications for maternal health.

Physiological Factors Contributing to Varicose Veins in Pregnancy

Several pregnancy-related physiological changes contribute to the development of varicose veins:

  1. Increased Blood Volume: During pregnancy, a woman’s blood volume increases by 20-40%. This substantial increase is necessary to support fetal growth and development but puts additional pressure on the venous system, particularly in the lower extremities.
  2. Hormonal Changes: Pregnancy hormones, especially progesterone, play a significant role in the development of varicose veins. Medical literature indicates that progesterone causes relaxation of vein walls, which can lead to venous dilation and reduced valve efficiency.
  3. Uterine Enlargement: As pregnancy progresses, the growing uterus exerts pressure on the inferior vena cava, the large vein responsible for returning blood from the lower body to the heart. Research has shown that this pressure can inhibit venous return.  This increases the pressure in the leg veins and can cause the stretching and bulging associated with varicose veins.
  4. Weight Gain: The natural weight gain associated with pregnancy adds additional pressure on the veins returning the blood back to the heart.

Indications for Medical Consultation

While varicose veins during pregnancy are often benign, certain symptoms warrant medical evaluation:

  1. Persistent swelling: There are several ways to deal with swelling during pregnancy that can improve the resolution of varicosities which your provider can suggest.
  2. Pain: Persistent or significant pain in the legs should be assessed by a healthcare provider.
  3. Skin Changes: Any redness, discoloration, or hardening of the skin around varicose veins may suggest advanced venous insufficiency.
  4. Warmth or Tenderness: Veins that are warm to the touch or tender may indicate inflammation or potential clot.
  5. Bleeding: Any bleeding from varicose veins requires immediate medical attention.
  6. Ulceration: The development of ulcers or sores near the ankles could be a sign of severe chronic venous insufficiency.

It’s important to note that these symptoms could indicate complications such as superficial thrombophlebitis or deep vein thrombosis, which require prompt medical attention.

Postpartum Expectations

For many women, varicose veins improve significantly after giving birth. Studies suggest that up to 40% of women will see some significant remnants of their varicosities even after 3 months postpartum.

If varicose veins persist beyond this period, consultation with a vascular specialist may be advisable. Modern treatments for persistent varicose veins are minimally invasive and highly effective, with options including sclerotherapy, endovenous laser treatment, radiofrequency ablation and several others.

Taking the Next Step

Pregnancy-related varicose veins, while common, should not be dismissed as they can be a sign of deep vein issue.  Timely medical consultation when necessary can ensure optimal maternal health and comfort both during and after pregnancy.

At Colorado Skin & Vein, we specialize in the management of pregnancy-related vascular issues. Our team of experienced, board-certified specialists offers comprehensive evaluations and personalized treatment plans. 

To schedule a free consultation with our experts, please contact Colorado Skin & Vein at 720.526.0667. Let us help you navigate this aspect of your pregnancy and postpartum journey with confidence and expert care.

Picture of Colorado Skin & Vein

Colorado Skin & Vein

Trusted Denver specialists in vein treatments, aesthetics, and laser care. Over two decades of expertise delivering results with comfort and precision.
Categories:
Colorado's Vascular & Aesthetic Medicine

Stay Informed, Stay Healthy

Explore expert tips, guides, and the latest updates on vein health and treatments.

Read More Posts
Danielle Killingsworth, NCMA, Aesthetics Coordinator at Colorado Skin & Vein in Denver

Danielle Killingsworth

NCMA, Aesthetics Coordinator

Danielle is a Colorado native who brings more than 22 years of experience in the medical field. Throughout her career she has developed a diverse clinical background across infectious disease, general surgery, and pain management — giving her a well-rounded understanding of patient care and of what it takes to create a safe, comfortable, and personalized experience.

As Aesthetics Coordinator at Colorado Skin & Vein, Danielle combines that clinical knowledge with a genuine passion for aesthetics. She is dedicated to helping patients feel confident, informed, and supported throughout their aesthetic journey, from the initial consultation through treatment and follow-up care.

She believes one of the most rewarding parts of her career is building meaningful relationships with patients and helping them look and feel their very best.

Outside of work, Danielle enjoys spending time with her family, including her four boys, getting lost in a good book, and working in her garden. Fun fact: she is a dedicated Dallas Cowboys fan.

Nikki Moyta, Operations Director at Colorado Skin & Vein in Denver

Nikki Moyta

Operations Director

For over 26 years, Nikki has dedicated her career to the dermatology and aesthetics industry, building her experience from the ground up — starting in a patient scheduling call center, moving to the front desk, and rising to executive leadership overseeing multiple providers and locations.

Originally from Pittsburgh, she moved to Orlando before starting 10th grade and later attended Seminole State College of Florida. Her career in dermatology began in 2002, scheduling appointments for a multi-location practice. She grew quickly within the organization, moving into front-desk and checkout roles before being promoted to Office Manager in 2008. In 2012, her leadership and operational expertise led the CEO to seek her out for an expanded role overseeing multiple providers and locations — a position she held through 2022.

Outside of her professional career, Nikki is passionate about giving back to the community:

  • Community outreach
  • Voted “Cheerleader of the Practice”
  • 1st Place Winner — Miles for Melanoma

With a career built on leadership, dedication, and a genuine passion for patients and the aesthetics industry, she is excited to bring her experience and enthusiasm to the Colorado community. When she is not in the office, you can find Nikki with her Siberian husky, Compass, somewhere on top of a mountain.

Betina Lacson, RVT at Colorado Skin & Vein in Denver

Betina Lacson

RVT

Betina graduated from the Cardiovascular Technology Program at Grossmont College in California in 2020, and brings more than six years of experience in the duplex world of venous insufficiency. Much of her career has centered on superficial vein mapping and assisting in surgery while providing attentive patient care.

At Colorado Skin & Vein, she assists with venous ablation procedures as well as ultrasound-guided sclerotherapy. She is committed to quality care at every stage — from the initial consultation, through surgery, to post-operative appointments — making sure each patient feels fully supported.

In her free time, Betina loves Kizomba dancing with her Afro-Latin dance community, and can often be found at electronic dance music shows in different cities. If you are feeling generous, she will happily accept a karaoke room or an iced Thai milk tea.

Brooke Owens, PA-C, MPAS at Colorado Skin & Vein in Denver

Brooke Owens

PA-C, MPAS

Brooke Owens, PA-C, MPAS is a compassionate Physician Assistant who brings a strong clinical foundation, exceptional attention to detail, and a patient-centered approach to Colorado Skin & Vein.

Prior to joining the practice, Brooke spent several years in pediatric primary care, caring for patients with a wide range of acute and chronic conditions. She became known for her thorough evaluations, thoughtful clinical decision-making, and ability to build lasting relationships with patients and their families. That experience strengthened her diagnostic expertise while reinforcing the importance of listening carefully, educating patients, and creating individualized treatment plans.

Drawn to the unique blend of medicine, procedures, and patient transformation, Brooke was excited to move into vascular medicine and aesthetic care. She is passionate about helping patients improve not only their health but also their confidence — whether they are seeking treatment for vein disease, skin concerns, or cosmetic enhancements. By combining broad medical experience with advanced specialty training and a meticulous eye for detail, she delivers safe, effective, and personalized care.

Brooke believes the best outcomes begin with trust. She values taking the time to understand each patient’s goals, answer questions, and ensure they feel informed and comfortable throughout their care.

Angel Croce, Staff Manager at Colorado Skin & Vein in Denver

Angel Croce

Staff Manager

Angel has been in healthcare for more than 20 years. Her journey began in 2004, after her father suddenly passed away from a stroke. Losing him was a life-changing experience, and it inspired her to choose a career where she could help others and give patients and their families the care, compassion, and support they need during difficult times.

Throughout her career she has worked across cardiology, neurology, family practice, and urgent care — each experience helping her grow both personally and professionally. She now works in vascular care and aesthetics, where she enjoys building relationships with her patients, helping them understand their care, and making sure they feel comfortable and supported throughout their journey.

Outside of work, Angel is a proud mom of two. Family is incredibly important to her, and in her spare time she loves being outdoors with her husband and their two dogs — hunting, fishing, and enjoying Colorado.

For Angel, healthcare is more than a career — it is personal. What started as a way to honor her father’s memory has become more than two decades of caring for others, and she is grateful to keep doing something that means so much to her every day.