How Pregnancy Changes Your Feet — and What You Can Do About It

Pregnancy transforms your entire body in beautiful and unexpected ways — and that includes your feet. While most women expect changes in their belly or energy levels, many are surprised by the discomfort, swelling, and even the shifting shape of their feet as the months go by.

At Hip to Sole Podiatry, we specialize in women’s foot health with a focus on compassionate, whole-person care. We understand that pregnancy is not just a physical journey — it’s emotional, personal, and deeply individual. And your feet? They're carrying you through it all.

Let’s walk through some of the most common foot-related changes during pregnancy — and how to support yourself with care, patience, and the right guidance.

💧 Swelling (Edema): A Common Companion

If your shoes suddenly feel too snug or your ankles seem to vanish by the evening, you're not alone. Swelling is incredibly common during pregnancy — especially in the second and third trimesters.

As your body retains more fluid and your growing uterus places pressure on the veins in your lower body, circulation slows, and fluid starts to collect in your feet and ankles.

Gentle ways to support yourself:

• Elevate your feet whenever possible — especially after a long day

• Take short walks to encourage circulation (even gentle movement helps)

• Soak your feet in cool water and try a calming massage

• Wear soft, breathable compression socks

• Keep hydrated — water helps your body regulate fluid balance

🦶 Changing Arches and Foot Shape

The hormone relaxin helps your body prepare for childbirth by loosening ligaments — and this includes the ones in your feet. As your arches soften and your foot’s support structure shifts, you may experience:

• Flattening of the arches

• A change in gait (how you walk)

• Heel or arch pain, especially first thing in the morning

Supportive strategies:

• Choose shoes with firm arch support and cushioning

• Use custom orthotics (we can help fit you)

• Avoid walking barefoot on hard floors — even at home

• Gently stretch your feet and calves daily to ease tension

👟 When Your Shoe Size Changes

Many women are surprised to find their shoe size increases during or after pregnancy. This can be due to swelling, ligament stretching, and natural shifts in posture and body weight. Sometimes the change is temporary — but often, it’s here to stay.

How to embrace the change:

• Let go of the idea that you need to “fit back” into your old shoes

• Invest in footwear that fits your feet as they are now

• Opt for wider, supportive, and stylish shoes designed for comfort

• Get professionally measured post-pregnancy if needed

👠 Podiatry-Approved Footwear for Pregnancy & Beyond

Looking for shoes that won’t cause pain — but still look and feel great? Here are some podiatrist-recommended brands we love for pregnancy and postpartum foot support:

• Frankie4 – Designed by podiatrists, combining style with arch support

• Naot – Excellent for arch support and shock absorption

• Planet Shoes – Contoured footbeds and breathable everyday styles

• Scholl Orthaheel – Built-in orthotic support for stability and comfort

• Revere Shoes – Adjustable, orthotic-friendly options perfect for swollen or wide feet

These brands offer a great balance between function and fashion — and many of their styles can accommodate custom orthotics if needed.

💛 Whole-Body, Whole-Woman Support

At Hip to Sole Podiatry, we take a holistic approach to foot care. That means we consider the full picture — your physical health, your comfort, and how your feet support your journey through pregnancy and motherhood.

We offer:

• Safe, pregnancy-friendly foot treatments

• Custom orthotic fittings

• Gentle, judgment-free advice and support

  
  

🩰 Let’s Take Care of You

Your feet may be swelling, stretching, or aching — but they are also carrying you through one of life’s most transformative seasons. Let us support you with the care, kindness, and expertise you deserve.

📞 Call us today or book online to schedule your consultation at Hip to Sole Podiatry. Because you deserve to walk through pregnancy — and beyond — with confidence and comfort.