Hormone fluctuations, weight gain and the extra strain of pregnancy on the mother's system can cause mild ankle edema during pregnancy.

However, edema can be a sign of a serious condition called pre-ecclampsia, toxemia or pregnancy induced hypertension. Other symptoms can include:

swelling of hands and face
sudden weight gain
Decreased urine output
Nausea and vomiting
Facial swelling
High blood pressure
Agitation
Vision changes (flashing lights in the eyes)

See your OB/Gyn immediatly. He/she will test your urine for protein and take your blood pressure.

This may be very serious and has serious consequences if left unchecked. Close monitoring can prevent complications.

If the edema turns out to be the natural effects of pregnancy than at least you can be re-assured by checking it. Otherwise sleep with your feet elevated above level of the heart, avoid salt, and processed foods, sugar and caffeine and drink 64 oz of water a day.

Good luck, hope this helped.

---

I hope my answer is helpful. If you have more questions, just ask! I am happy to help. If not, please click "accept" so I may receive credit for my work.
Positive feedback and a bonus is appreciated when you feel I've earned it. Thank you, Christy