Getting Vein Treatment While Breastfeeding: Is It Safe?

Vein disorders are common health conditions that develop during pregnancy. It is quite evident that the changing hormones result in enlarged veins. About 40% of pregnant women in the US are affected by varicose veins. This happens as the body undergoes several changes during pregnancy, and the veins get enlarged to accommodate the additional blood flow that is required for the baby’s growth.

As the veins are stretched during pregnancy, they usually get back to their original size post-childbirth. However, if the blood flows in the wrong direction, they lead to vein conditions like spider veins or varicose veins.

Since the number of women affected with vein disorders is massive, one needs to think about the right time to start the vein treatment. So, will it be suitable for you to start varicose vein treatment while breastfeeding? To learn more about this, keep reading.

Breastfeeding and Varicose Veins

Varicose veins caused during pregnancy usually disappear naturally within three to six months of postpartum. However, if there is swelling or constant pain in the legs, then you can consider getting your vein treatment done.

The big question that now arises is whether it will be safe to treat vein conditions while you are breastfeeding the baby. Or will the impact hamper the nutrition of breast milk? Well, in recent times, vein treatments have become minimally invasive. So it won't affect the breastmilk or the growth of the baby. However, it is recommended to start vein treatment only after the nursing is completed to be on the safer side and minimize risks.

Effective Tips That Can Prevent Varicose Veins During Breastfeeding

To avoid undergoing any varicose vein treatment while breastfeeding, you can take preventive measures and control your vein condition. Listed below are some effective tips that will prevent varicose veins during breastfeeding.

• Avoid prolonged standing or sitting – Extending the period of standing and sitting will restrict the blood flow of your legs and worsen your condition.
• Exercise – This is the best way to increase the blood flow so that it doesn't pool up.
• Wear compression stockings - Compression stockings will gently create pressure for the blood to circulate, wear these after consulting your doctor.
• Take regular walks – Taking regular walks 2-3 times a day will give effective results and improve your condition.
• Keep your legs elevated – Elevating your legs will help your blood circulate. You can do this by putting your legs on top of cushions or a stool.

Safe Treatment Options During Breastfeeding

If your condition is getting severe and you require vein treatment during your postpartum, then you can choose any of the given treatment options. These options are safe to undergo while breastfeeding a baby as they are minimally invasive procedures.

• Sclerotherapy

  In sclerotherapy, a chemical solution called a sclerosant is injected into the targeted veins to close the larger veins. Since the chemical is injected, as a precautionary measure, you may be asked to “pump and dump” for 48-72 hours after the procedure. Sclerotherapy treatment while breastfeeding doesn’t have any side effects as such.

• Radiofrequency Ablation or Thermal Ablation

  As the name suggests, the radiofrequency ablation treatment option uses radiofrequency to target large veins, especially the ones that are on the surface of the skin. This procedure has no side effects, and it is usually used for spider vein treatment while breastfeeding.

Consult NAVC to Get the Best Vein Treatment While Breastfeeding

Although there are many treatment options for vein conditions, it is best to consult a specialist. Vein conditions can become incredibly painful, so you should visit an expert and plan your vein treatment while breastfeeding your baby. Schedule an appointment today at North Atlanta Vascular Clinic, Suwanee, GA to avail yourself of the best venous disease treatment.