Shoes For a Pregnant Woman

BY the time you can’t fit into any of your pre-pregnancy clothes, chances are you are still fitting into your shoes, right? Maybe—but maybe not.

Pregnancy comes with a host of physical changes in a woman’s body; her feet are a key factor. Changes in the feet may include swelling (oedema), ‘flat feet’ and general pain and discomfort. Because of the extra fluid in their pregnant bodies, many women experience swelling in their feet and some may even have to wear a larger shoe size.

A case in mind of appropriate’ shoes is of Purity, who at 6 months was still wearing her pre-pregnancy shoes. During one of her antenatal clinics, when the doctor asked her to climb on the bed for examination, he couldn’t help noticing the shoes she had on.

‘Why are you wearing such shoes? Do you want to damage your back?’ The doctor seemed to reprimand her. Purity tried explaining to him that she was ‘comfortable’ and would not wear them at the slightest hint of any discomfort. But the doctor was emphatic. Much as the shoes were not stilettos or her idea of high heeled shoes, they were relatively high for her condition. He cautioned her that high or inappropriate shoes were known to cause body defects such as slipped discs among others. High heels tend to put a lot of tension on leg muscles and strain the joints. As a result one gets over-fatigued when wearing high heels during pregnancy.

Fortunately, wearing a ‘healthy’ shoe can address several of these problems. Such a shoe is one that helps feet feel better and also helps a woman to ‘carry her new weight more easily.

Oedema, which is the medical term for swelling of the feet, occurs when the extra weight of the uterus puts pressure on the blood vessels. The pressure slows down circulation, causing blood to pool in the legs and feet. This, plus the usual fluid retention that happens during pregnancy, results in pain and inability to wear regular shoes.
Suitable shoes at this time would be those that offer an extra wide toe box, slip-on styles or those with adjustability features such as straps and elasticised stretch gores. These would be ideal for those suffering from swollen feet.
With advanced technology, new shoe designs have been developed to promote a more natural body posture. Such shoes position the heel slightly lower than the toes to promote this natural posture with the head straight, shoulders rolled back and spine and pelvis aligned, allowing the back to form its natural arch. This shoe differs from the ordinary heeled shoe that tends to push the body forward and throws the pregnant woman’s body off balance, straining the back even more.

‘When the body is naturally aligned, the pelvis, which is the strongest part of the body, better supports the extra weight.’ explains a manufacturer of this new technology.
During the last two trimesters of pregnancy, a woman’s centre of gravity shifts and she easily loses her balance. At this stage, it is advisable to wear shoes that provide a flat and stable base on which to walk especially when walking briskly for exercise. Even after the baby is born, such shoes provide the perfect foundation for a new mother who is often juggling a baby, a baby bag and a purse.

During the last two trimesters of pregnancy, a woman’s centre of gravity shifts and she easily loses her balance. At this stage, it is advisable to wear shoes that provide a flat and stable base…

‘Foot fatigue’ and ‘flat feet’ that are very prevalent in pregnant women can be remedied by a comfortable shoe and getting regular foot massages in conjunction with wearing ‘healthy’ shoes during pregnancy.

Swollen feet, increased sweating, hormonal changes, and back and leg aches are but a few of the bodily changes you might experience during pregnancy. All these can and do affect the feet, and consequently the shoes you will be able to wear while you’re pregnant. Just because you are pregnant doesn’t mean you cannot be stylish.

Tips on shoes to wear during pregnancy Evening Shoes—You may be wondering why all the weddings, parties and other special occasions are happening when you are pregnant and decided to skip these events because you couldn’t find a suitable shoe to wear. Fortunately, there are still a lot of really great-looking evening shoes with lower heels.

Loafers and Casual Shoes—Loafers are a great choice when you need a low heel, and a casual, stylish look.

Sandals—if the weather permits this would be good to wear during your pregnancy. You might enjoy the added air circulation and the less restrictive nature of open shoes.

Mules and Clogs—Mules and clogs are a great choice during pregnancy. In addition to the built-in comfort features offered by many clog-makers, wearing a solid-soled, backless shoe reduces pressure on the back of your feet, plus, they’re great for quickly slipping on and off.

Sporty Shoes and Sneakers—There are a few sneakers that offer plenty of style, and also have features you might appreciate — like longer widths or uppers made from breathable canvas or leather.

What to look for in shoes if you’re pregnant
The vaccine should not be given if a baby has any of the following conditions:

o Wearing slip-on shoes in a larger size will be comfortable for many pregnant women especially in the warm/hot months.
o Flats or low, wide heels around 2 inches or lower. Pregnant women could benefit enormously from wearing flats. But for many the trick is in finding the cute ones with a wide width and the task becomes nearly impossible – the keyword, being ‘nearly.’
o Good arch support. This can be accomplished by buying shoes from comfort shoe brands, or by using an insert that adds arch support.
o Canvas or leather shoes (breathable uppers) that won’t trap moisture.
o Shoes that are easy to slip-on, as laces may become more difficult to tie as the pregnancy progresses
o Larger or wider shoes that can accommodate your swelling feet. Your regular size and width may be uncomfortable with time.

Additional tips for foot care during pregnancy

o Wearing socks with closed-toe shoes may increase your comfort.
o Avoid standing for long periods without a rest.
o Elevate legs whenever possible. If your feet are feeling achy, try soaking them in warm water.

END: PG8/38-39