Maternity compression tights

Maternity compression stockings - are they right for me?

Pregnancy can affect the woman’s body in a number of ways - from increased back pain, to varicose veins and swelling. However, well-chosen compression stockings can significantly reduce these conditions during pregnancy. Read on and see if this is the right solution for you.

What are maternity tights?

For most moms-to-be, the weight of your bundle or bundles of joy might be a bit too much for your legs and lower back. Thanks to maternity compression stockings, you can finally get the right support, alleviate pain and feelings of heaviness during pregnancy, all while still being able to perform daily activities.

Maternity compression pantyhose should be worn over the baby bump during the early stages of pregnancy and you ought to invest in large sizes for the latter stages of pregnancy.
During pregnancy, your body undergoes a number of changes, including sciatica (lower back pain due to pressure put on the sciatic nerve), spine curvature and an increase in blood and other fluids, which may lead to conditions such as varicose veins, chronic venous insufficiency and oedema.

As your baby begins to develop, your body, primarily your spine and pelvis need to bear the additional weight. This as a result may force moms-to-be to bend forward, often resulting in a number of back conditions, primarily sciatica. Throughout pregnancy, your body creates a hormone called relaxin, which relaxes the ligaments around the pelvis and prepares the cervix for childbirth. Since your ligaments are more relaxed, your body is less stiff in order to support your growing baby bump. During this time, pressure is added onto the sciatic nerve, which runs from the lower back down throughout the buttocks and leg.

Throughout pregnancy, women experience a significant increase in blood and other fluids in their bodies, which are there to nurture the embryo. As a result, many women experience conditions such as varicose veins, chronic venous insufficiency and even oedema. Varicose veins are caused by blood pooling in your legs as a result of weakened and damaged blood valves - commonly known as chronic venous insufficiency. The added weight from the baby bump, plus the additional fluids in your body and gravity can gradually weaken these valves, causing enlarged, dark colored veins. Another common condition in many women during pregnancy is oedema, which is when the body holds onto more fluids in order to sustain the unborn child, and as a result, fluids pool in the feet and ankles, causing swelling. To help regulate these bodily fluids and get through pregnancy with less pain and swelling, women turn to reliable maternity compression stockings.

How do compression stockings work?

Unlike regular compression socks and tights, maternity compression pantyhose cover much of the belly, in order to provide maximum support and graduated compression. These tights provide more pressure on the legs, which gradually decreases the closer to the baby bump. This helps to pump blood and water from the legs and feet and into the remaining parts of the body, thus significantly reducing varicose veins, chronic venous insufficiency and oedema. Additionally, added support around the baby bump helps relieve the back and sciatic nerve, helping to reduce back pain and spine curvature to an extent.

What are the different types of maternity compression stocking?

Maternity stockings come in a variety of models, which differ based on color, length, size and compression level. Stockings from our store are available in black, beige, caramel, navy blue and even magenta. All models are made of expandable materials that do not irritate the skin and work to prevent sweat buildup. Certain models also come with an open toe option, which can be worn with open-toed shoes for more formal occasions.

FAQ - Frequently asked questions 

1. How much do maternity tights cost?

Reliable compression stockings start at around $35 and can go up to over $80, however, prices may vary depending on the model you choose.

2. Can I wear these stockings after I’ve given birth?

Yes, in fact, stockings may be recommended after pregnancy if you have conditions such as oedema and varicose veins.

3. Can these stockings hurt my unborn child?

No, however, it is vital that you first consult with your doctor prior to purchasing a compression pantyhose, as they come in a number of compression levels and sizes, which should be properly fitted.