The Best Compression Socks for During and After Pregnancy To Prevent Swelling
If you’re pregnant, chances are you have or are experiencing foot pain, leg swelling, and spider veins. Luckily, maternity compression socks can help to alleviate these symptoms and help you feel better. The drug-free option is recommended by doctors, including California-based board certified podiatrist, Dr. Ebonie Vincent.
“While there are circumstances when you shouldn’t wear compression socks, such as underlying heart conditions that need to be considered and discussed with your doctor, generally speaking, pregnant women can greatly benefit from compression socks!” says Dr. Vincent. “Your lower extremities experience added pressure from the baby’s development which comes with a lot of side effects that compression socks can help treat.”
- Ebonie Vincent, DPM, California-based podiatrist and star of TLC’s My Feet Are Killing Me
Compression socks have pressure that helps to stimulate blood circulation, which allows the veins to function properly. They also help to reduce swelling. “With increased swelling to the legs, the likelihood of developing a blood clot or a deep vein thrombosis is increased. Wearing compression socks can help reduce your chances of developing these potential life-threatening blood clots,” says Dr. Vincent.
Compression socks can be worn all day, and especially if you decide to workout, travel or have to stand for an extended period of time. Dr. Vincent recommends applying an over-the-counter preventative athlete’s foot treatment like Lotrimin AF Daily Prevention Powder on your feet before putting on the socks.
Compression socks come with varying levels of compression. “Levels of compression come in measurements of millimeters per mercury (mmHG). I recommend 15-20mmHg if you’ve never worn compression socks and are looking for something lightweight, 20-40mmHg for moderate swelling, and 40-50mmHG for severe swelling,” says Dr. Vincent. “I am mostly recommending knee-length compression socks 15-20mmHg.”
Shop some of our favorite compression socks for pregnancy below.
Best compression socks for pregnancy
These cute knee-high compression socks come in a ton of fun prints like cats, koalas, unicorns, llamas, tie dye, French bulldogs, coffee and doughnuts, polka dots, and many more. The affordable brand has a mild compression of 8-15 mmHg to help with circulation while being comfortable for all-day wear.
Pressure level: 8-15 mmHg
These socks provide relief from foot and leg pain, as well as reduce swelling and inflammation. Loved by celebs like Karlie Kloss, who wore them during and after her pregnancy, they have a compression of 15-25mmHg. They come in sizes small through extra-large, with medium wide and large wide options also available. This company also gives back: Since the start of the COVID-19 pandemic, Comrad has donated over $200,000 worth of socks to over 100 hospitals to help prevent fatigue and blood clots in hospital workers who are on their feet for extra-long shifts.
Pressure level: 15-20 mmHg
This sporty-retro two-pack set has a moderate compression of 15-20 mmHg. Each pair, both the black and white, have adorable hot pink details and look gorgeous while protecting your legs and feet. Available in size small/medium and medium/large, the brand recommends hand washing the socks to preserve the fit.
Pressure level: 15-20 mmHg
Compression socks to wear during and after pregnancy, Belly Bandit socks will help to quell swelling in your ankles, calves, and feet. They have 15-20 mm Hg of compression to help with blood flow and circulation. Plus, the sock material is silver-infused, which helps to eliminate bacteria and odor. Tip: Do not apply lotion before trying to put on knee-high compression socks!
Pressure level: 15-20 mmHg
If a knee-high sock isn’t your style, or doesn’t fit your comfort level at the moment, we love these ankle socks that can be worn before, during, and after pregnancy. They come in a variety of bold colors, like pink, yellow, and blue, as well as black and white. The affordable socks will help with pain and fatigue thanks to 15-20 mmHg of compression, and won’t draw any unwanted attention.
Pressure level: 15-20 mmHg
These affordable, minimalist socks are one size fits most, sizes four to 10. The socks have a built-in arch support, are moisture wicking, and odor resistant. Machine washable, the socks are made of nylon and spandex. The socks have a large band at the top for optimal comfort.
Pressure level: Not specified
Perfect if you have to stand on your feet all day, these bamboo and recycled polyester socks offer mild compression (8-15 mmHg) for all-day comfort. The design is modern and contemporary and has a two-year warranty. The socks are also carbon neutral, meaning you can get comfortable and cozy while feeling good about your purchase. They come in three colorways and two sizes: small/medium and large/extra large.
Pressure level: 8-15 mmHg
Super popular and comfortable sock brand Bombas also offers a knee-high compression option. We love this warm and cozy merino wool pair, perfect under winter boots. These socks have a moderate 15-20mmHg of compression for a snug-but-not-too-tight fit. Available in small, medium, and large, in three colors: white, gray, and hunter green. For every pair of socks purchased, the company donates one pair to a homeless shelter, where socks are greatly needed.
Pressure level: 15-20 mmHg
These compression socks come in a pack of three, so you have a pair and a couple of spares. The socks are made with copper-infused yarn; copper is a great conductor of electricity to help with blood circulation in your legs. They’re also breathable, sweat-wicking, have a reinforced toe and heel, and help eliminate odors so you can wear them an extra time before doing laundry.
Pressure level: 15-20 mmHg
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