Pregnancy Symptoms: Swelling & Fatigue in the Third Trimester - Is It Normal?

Question
my officemate is pregnant about 7 and half months..but we have notice that her feet and legs became bigger and look like smoother.She always said that shes tired always.Does her condition is have complication with her pregnancy?Please tell us what to do?thanks

Answer
Dear Leizyl,

Swelling in the feet and ankles, as well as increased fatigue, would be expected during the 3rd trimester of pregnancy. These are not necessarily symptoms that you/she should have any great concern about. If she were having any issues with preeclampsia, that would be noted by her OB doctor, primarily in the assessment of her blood pressure, urine tests, and symptomology. Often with this condition there will be marked swelling in the face.

If the swelling in her legs becomes severe, you may notice pitting edema (when you press your thumb into your skin, an indentation remains for a few seconds) or discoloration of her legs. If this happens, she should notify her doctor, she should put her feet up every day (but avoid sitting for extended periods) and drink water to keep hydrated.

I hope this has helped you and answered your questions. I do apologize for the delay in answering. I wish you well.

Brenda