Swelling is fluid retention in one part of the body and is quite common during pregnancy. But if the swelling is very rapid, it may be a sign of some complications.

What causes rapid swelling?

During pregnancy, blood volume increases by up to 50% and the amounts of other fluids in your body also increase. Swelling is the result of this excess fluid in your body accumulating in certain parts of the body. Some swelling during pregnancy is normal and expected.

On the other hand, swelling that occurs very quickly can be a sign of preeclampsia. Preeclampsia is marked by symptoms such as high blood pressure, rapid swelling, headache and vision changes, and protein in the urine, and is a very serious pregnancy complication. The only way to `cure` preeclampsia is for a woman to give birth, so doctors often initiate preeclampsia-risk deliveries at 37. week.

Tips

If you notice rapid swelling at any point in your pregnancy, it's important to contact your healthcare provider. Your healthcare provider can let you know if the swelling is normal, but because of the risks associated with preeclampsia, it's always a good idea to report this symptom to your doctor.