Question
Why have my feet become swollen in the last week of pregnancy?
Answer
Swelling in the feet is common in the end of
pregnancy, and itching often goes along with the skin being stretched due to the swelling. Unfortunately, at the end of
pregnancy, severe swelling can also be a sign of preeclampsia, an illness that only occurs during
pregnancy. It usually happens toward the end of
pregnancy, and is characterized by
swelling of hands and feet, and sometimes the face
increase in blood pressure
protein in the urine (checked by those dip sticks used at your prenatal visits)
Swelling alone does not mean that you have preeclampsia, but I suggest you contact your health care provider, who can check for the other symptoms. Preeclampsia can be mild or severe, and must be treated. Best of luck.
