The size of the legs during pregnancy turns out to be changing too, how come?

Maybe you already know that during pregnancy, many changes in bodily functions occur. but did you know that the size of your feet also changes when you are pregnant? If you pay attention, you will find differences in the shape of the legs before and after pregnancy. Then why can the size of the feet during pregnancy change? Is this normal to happen?

Change in foot size during pregnancy

This changing size of the leg during pregnancy has been proven in a study. The study, which was conducted by researchers from the University of Lowa, invited 49 pregnant women to have their feet measured during the first and third trimesters. The study, reported in the American Journal of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, states that the change in size is permanent, so that after the mother gives birth, the size of her legs gets bigger.

The results of this study indicate that at least 60-70% of mothers experience changes in foot size during pregnancy. Actually, the change that occurs is the change in the arch of the foot.

If you notice, before pregnancy the arches of the soles of your feet are quite noticeable and noticeable. After delivery, however, your feet become flatter and there are no visible curves. Therefore, this study found that changes in the height of the foot arch that occurred in pregnant women caused changes in the size of the mother's feet by about 2-10 mm.

What causes the change in leg size during pregnancy in the mother?

Changes in foot size are common in pregnant women. This is largely due to the weight gain that occurs during pregnancy. This weight causes the size and shape of the mother's feet to change over time.

In addition, it is also mentioned that the joints in the body tend to loosen when a woman is pregnant. Loosening of the joints in the body is caused by hormones produced by the body during pregnancy and causes the ligaments of the legs to stretch too.

Flat feet are at risk for various joint and muscle problems

Research suggests that this change in foot size can affect the health of women's feet in the future. Women are at greater risk for arthritis and joint problems than men. Therefore, women are more often advised to consume calcium and supplements that are good for joints and bones more than men.

The arch in the sole of the foot is not just a difference in shape. but basically the arch has a function, such as to maintain the balance of the body's balance, to be a cushion or as a push when walking or jumping.

Having flat feet can cause a variety of foot problems such as swelling, pain or tension in the calves, knees, soles of the feet and pelvis. This is because the body's load is not properly divided when walking or running. If you feel these symptoms, you should immediately consult a doctor.