Hi I am not quite sure how this diagnosis would look like in English, but in Russia they put it as varix of pelvis minor veins or varix of perineum. I haven't ever had problems with my veins and have no signs of leg varix. But being 6 months pregnant, I noticed a vein that popped up on my labia. Since then the doctor prescribed me Detralex, compression pantyhose and ointment. I would like to get an opinion of an American specialist.

First question is:

Is Detralex safe for my baby?

Then, what kind of compression pantyhose or stockings should I get for everyday use and for delivery process? The variety of brands is overwhelming, I do not know where to start.

And, can I apply the regular varix ointment in such a delicate zone, what if it gets to my mucous?

 

Hello Tatiana,

Personally I would not use any oral medicine for it. Support hose are pretty useless I would say because of the compression in the wrong places and I can't imagine how they would chaff, but that is because I never wear them either, lol.

You can treat these varicose veins with the same oitment as for rectal varicose veins (hemorrhoids). Witch Hazel is also soothing for this, as in compresses, sitz bath.

It helps to not be too heavy during pregnancy, though if you are, it is better to not loose weight, so that may be a moot point now. Lots of pool time is good, to take the pressure off.

As for labor and varicose veins, no purple pushing (as in straining along). Some support in the area may be warranted, pushing on all fours, in the water etc, anything to keep the pressure off the perineum as much as possible. They can rupture during birth and this is not pretty, but this is *not* common. A good diet with lots of vit C and zinc may be good to work on prevention of that.

After birth, you can have them surgically closed, but I would probably wait till I was done with children all together unless something would indicate a problem. They tend to get bigger with each pregnancy and it looks pretty dramatic, but again, they most often do not cause problems at all with delivery. 

HTH!
maria.

Oh, I should add: regular exercise is one of the best things for all varicosities.

If they get bothersome/painful as pregnancy advances, you can wear a sanitary pad with snug undies to give labial/vulval varicosities some support. Regular rest periods lying down or at least reclining (off the butt) is probably also called for as they get more uncomfortable.

With purple pushing, I mean extended pushes with breath holding. It's better to push with throat open, and only for about 5-6 seconds at a time, or to breathe the baby out if possible. Varicosities may need some gentle support during birth to help prevent rupturing.

HTH!

maria.
(info gathered from a board I am on, just fyi:-)

Thanks a lot for a bunch of advices!!! They all make perfect sense. Most of what you mentioned is what I am trying to do now... But I am not sure about delivery process still. I am very nervous now when I imagine all the pressure that is gonna be there.

I will try to follow your tips and keep my spirit up! Well, anyway I know when I see my baby girl the whole world will be worth it!!!

Though, have one more question. I also read that massage on the early stages can be useful. Is it safe to do perineal massage with oil while you have a vein popped out there???

 

I hope you understand that Maria is not a doctor or midwife nor am I, so please do not take her advice as coming from a medical expert. I report what the research literature has to say about safe effective care, and your problem is not something I have researched. I am going to ask my supervisor, who is a midwife, if she has any suggestions for you.

-- Henci