What stockings to buy for childbirth. Bag in the hospital: what underwear will be needed after childbirth. Photo gallery: compression stockings from various companies

Everything more women prefer to wear stockings, going to the hospital. And we are not talking about seductive underwear - no, these stockings are designed to prevent problems with the veins of the legs. We are talking about special compression stockings.

Compression stockings during childbirth

Compression underwear is a special medical underwear that puts pressure on the human body in order to prevent swelling and improve blood circulation in the veins. It is made from natural and synthetic fibers - cotton, capron, elastoden. Such underwear is thicker and stronger than conventional nylon products, it is used for therapeutic and prophylactic purposes. Compression stockings and tights are designed in such a way that the pressure decreases from the bottom up, that is, the blood moves more freely and more easily from the foot towards the heart. Compression knitwear can be used both for therapeutic and prophylactic purposes.

During childbirth, blood vessels female body experiencing the greatest stress. This tension is especially dangerous for the vessels of the legs, and blood clots can form in the deep veins of the lower extremities. The presence of such blood clots provokes the occurrence of thrombosis or thrombophlebitis, dangerous diseases with negative consequences up to death. Compression stockings are designed to reduce these risks:

  • pressure equally distributed over the entire surface of the legs helps to establish a uniform blood flow; constant pressure has a positive effect on the state of blood vessels;
  • pressure in the vessels increases, which reduces the chance of blood stasis;
  • compression underwear protects the vessels from possible overloads during childbirth.

The appearance of the vascular network on the legs is one of the symptoms of problems with veins and blood vessels.

Instead of special stockings, elastic bandages are sometimes used, which are wrapped around the legs from the foot to the groin - they perform a similar role. An elastic bandage is cheaper than underwear, but during childbirth it can unwind, in addition, it is difficult to choose the right degree of pressure on the legs, so if there is evidence, it is better to purchase stockings.

Even small fluctuations in pressure in the vessels can cause them to weaken and show the vascular network on the legs, which not only does not look very beautiful, but also indicates the initial degree of varicose veins in the legs. To avoid this, you should not neglect the doctor's recommendations if he advises the use of compression underwear, and if he does not raise this topic, then ask yourself about measures to prevent problems with leg veins.

Video: why stockings are needed for childbirth

Does everyone need to use them?

Many women are sure that compression underwear during pregnancy and during childbirth is required only for those expectant mothers who have already been diagnosed with vein problems. In fact, phlebologists - doctors involved in venous pathologies - recommend using them, including as a preventive measure, in order to avoid varicose veins, thrombophlebitis, thrombosis and other vein pathologies. This is especially important if a pregnant woman has the following symptoms:

  • spider veins or meshes on the legs;
  • swelling of the lower extremities;
  • feeling tired or;
  • cramps in the calf muscles;
  • phlebeurysm;
  • chronic venous insufficiency;
  • thrombosis;
  • venous eczema and/or dermatitis.

Is it possible to wear those stockings that were worn during pregnancy

Compression underwear is divided into 4 classes depending on the pressure exerted. A specialist should choose the right class of underwear for a pregnant woman, depending on the severity of her problems with the veins. If by the time of delivery the state vascular system allows a woman to use the same stockings that she wore during pregnancy, then it is perfectly acceptable to wear them. But it is worth remembering that one of the main conditions for clothing used during childbirth is sterility, so stockings should be thoroughly washed before going to the maternity hospital.

Washing compression stockings should be done carefully and carefully, using gentle washing powders and be sure to thoroughly rinse the laundry in clean water. It is not recommended to twist or wring out the laundry, as this can spoil the fine structure of the fibers, it is better to dry them in a straightened form on a horizontal surface.

Are stockings necessary for a caesarean section?

If the need for stockings during natural childbirth is quite transparent, then the question of the need for underwear during a cesarean section confuses many. Reason for which compression stockings with this method of delivery are also important, is that cesarean section- this is an abdominal operation, and during it the vessels experience additional stress. When performing such an operation, the veins expand, and the woman is in a horizontal motionless state for a long time, which can provoke the onset of thromboembolism. In addition, a pregnant woman is given anesthesia, the components of which can adversely affect the entire cardiovascular system of her body.

Types, classes and sizes of compression underwear

Compression knitwear for the lower extremities is of 3 types:

  • knee socks - reach only the middle of the thigh, are used only during pregnancy and only in cases where problems with veins and blood vessels do not affect the upper part of the legs; when wearing them, the pressure on the hip area increases;
  • tights - undesirable for use during long periods of pregnancy, as they put pressure on the abdomen; in addition, for obvious reasons, they cannot be used in childbirth;
  • stockings are the best option for compression underwear, they evenly distribute the load from the feet to the groin, protecting the vessels along the entire length of the legs.

Photo gallery: types of compression underwear for legs

Golfs are allowed to be worn only if there are no problems with the veins in the thigh area. Tights are not recommended for wearing for a long time, as they put pressure on the stomach
stockings count the best option, as they evenly distribute pressure along the entire length of the legs

Medical underwear is divided into 4 compression classes, depending on how much pressure it exerts on the legs:

  • 1st class - compression does not exceed 23 millimeters of mercury; recommended in the early stages of venous disease, characterized by a tendency to edema, spider veins, leg fatigue; can be used as a prophylactic against varicose veins during pregnancy;
  • Grade 2 - pressure is in the range of 24-33 mm; used in the initial stage of varicose veins in pregnant women, for the prevention of deep vein thrombosis of the legs, with acute thrombophlebitis;
  • Grade 3 - compression does not exceed 45 mm Hg; it is used for moderate and severe degrees of damage to blood vessels and veins, for varicose veins complicated by trophic disorders, for deep vein thrombosis and lymphovenous insufficiency;
  • class 4 - pressure above 50 mm; recommended for wearing congenital anomalies circulatory and lymphatic systems, with severe violations of the lymph flow.

Special stockings for childbirth are allocated in a separate class. The compression in them is distributed evenly along the entire length of the product. Another them distinctive feature is an open toe, which allows the obstetrician during childbirth to determine the correctness of blood circulation by the type of fingers. It is advisable to wear them for childbirth, but if it is not possible to purchase stockings of this class, then medical stockings can be used, after consulting with a phlebologist.

To determine the right size of compression underwear, you need to take a number of measurements, since the right size is important for the correct distribution of pressure - stockings that are too small will overtighten the leg, and large ones will not create the necessary compression. The following measurements must be taken:

  • girth of the lower leg in the narrowest place, near the ankle;
  • calf circumference at the widest point of the calf;
  • thigh girth at a height of 25–30 cm above the knee;
  • for golf - leg length from heel to knee;
  • for stockings - leg length from heel to groin;
  • for tights - the circumference of the waist and hips.

Video: how to take measurements for compression stockings



Compression garments must be carefully sized, so all measurements must be taken carefully and with the correct body position.

Each type of compression underwear has its own size chart. Here is a table of sizes for stockings - the most common medical knitwear that is used during childbirth.

Table: compression stocking sizes

Circumference of the lower leg above the ankle, cmCalf circumference under the kneecap, cmGirth of the upper third of the thigh, cm
XS17 – 19 26 – 36 40 – 50
S20 – 22 30 – 42 48 – 60
SX20 - 22 30 – 42 56 – 70
M23 – 25 34 – 46 56 – 70
MX23 - 25 34 – 46 64 – 80
L26 – 28 38 – 51 64 – 80
LX26 – 28 38 – 51 72 - 90
XL29 – 31 42 - 55 72 - 90
XLX29 - 31 42 - 55 80 - 100

Video: how to choose compression underwear

Terms of use and care

Compression knitwear requires careful and careful care, as careless handling can damage its structure, stretch elastic fibers and destroy its healing properties.

Since medical underwear must be worn every day, it quickly gets dirty and needs to be washed daily. It is important to follow the washing rules so as not to spoil it:

  • do not use too high water temperature;
  • it is necessary to protect the linen from strong deformations - friction and spin;
  • Before washing, remove any jewelry from your hands, as they can damage the fabric.

You should choose special products for delicate washing:

  • liquid soap;
  • powder or gel for baby clothes;
  • powder or gel for delicate fabrics, chlorine-free.

It is undesirable to use:

  • washing powder - undissolved grains of powder can get between the threads of knitwear and disrupt its structure;
  • laundry soap - fatty acids in its composition aggressively affect knitwear.

Photo gallery: detergents for washing compression underwear

Detergents for washing delicate fabrics do not contain chlorine and aggressive substances
Detergents for washing baby clothes act carefully, but gently
Special remedy for washing compression underwear is designed taking into account all its features

  • breed detergent in warm water;
  • soak clothes for 10-15 minutes;
  • gently wash it without applying too much pressure and/or friction;
  • rinse in clean water 2-3 times;
  • do not use bleach, rinses, fabric softeners and other additives.

When machine washing, if it is allowed for a particular piece of laundry, set the mode to " handwash” or “delicate wash”. In this mode, the water does not heat up above the allowed temperature. Spinning in this case must be turned off, since when spinning, even at low speeds, the structure of medical knitwear is disturbed. It is also not recommended to wash compression garments together with other clothing.

Dry stockings in a well-ventilated area, away from heaters and direct sunlight. For drying, they need to be laid out on a horizontal surface on a fabric that absorbs moisture well. Hanging clothes to dry is prohibited.
When washing therapeutic knitwear, the chemical and physical impact on it should be minimal.

Good compression stockings are not cheap, so women are often worried about whether they can be bought from their hands or taken from friends. It is important to remember that the therapeutic and prophylactic effect of underwear depends on its condition, precisely selected size and compression class. If the last two points are quite easy to follow, because they are indicated on the packaging, then making sure that the knitwear was looked after in compliance with all the rules is already more difficult. Compression stockings are a rather capricious thing and easily become unusable, which is difficult to judge by their appearance. Therefore, it is worth buying or taking used stockings by someone only if you are firmly convinced that they have been carefully looked after. The period of wearing knitwear by the previous owner also matters, because the stockings of some companies lose their compression properties after a few months of use.

When can I take pictures after giving birth?

The length of time you need to wear compression stockings after childbirth depends on two factors:

  • method of delivery;
  • condition of the veins of a woman before and after childbirth.

If the child was born in a natural way, and if the young mother does not have varicose veins, increased blood clotting and cardiovascular problems, then it is enough to wear stockings for 3-7 days.

After a caesarean section, this period increases and is 2-3 weeks, while the first day they are worn without removing them. This is because even after the end of the operation, the components of anesthesia remain in the blood of the woman in labor, which have a vasodilating effect.

If a woman has been diagnosed with problems with veins, then the time of wearing stockings after childbirth increases. Exact term, during which it is desirable to wear stockings during the day (since it is advisable to take them off at night), the phlebologist observing the patient should say.

Comparative characteristics of compression stockings after childbirth from different companies

In the compression underwear market, you can find products for almost every taste, color and wallet thickness. It is quite easy to get confused in the choice of companies, therefore, for a visual comparison, we present a table comparing the stockings of the most famous manufacturers of medical knitwear.

Table: comparison of compression stockings from different companies

NameThe countryDistinctive featuresaverage price
USAHave an attractive appearance1300 r
RelaxanItalyThe fragility of products - usually stockings lose their properties after about a month1000–1500 r
OrthoSpainLow wear resistance. Variety of colors and designs.1500–2000 r
CopperGermanyDue to the increased density of knitwear, stockings are difficult to put on.3000 r
RussiaVariety of colors. Good quality/price ratio800–1300 r
SwitzerlandHigh-quality underwear, thought out to the smallest detail - special summer knitwear, perforation, reinforced heel4000–5000 r

Photo gallery: compression stockings from various companies

The Swiss company Sigvaris is considered one of the best in the production of compression hosiery Intex underwear is produced in Russia, therefore it is cheaper than its foreign counterparts, not inferior to them in quality Underwear from the American company Venotex is attractive both in its design and in its healing properties

The birth of a child is always a very big burden on the body of a woman. To reduce it, every pregnant woman is recommended to buy compression stockings for childbirth or caesarean section, which provide the prevention of varicose veins. Such a product contributes to normal blood flow in the legs, prevents thrombosis and other diseases. Find out what varieties of it exist and how to make right choice.

What are compression stockings

Weight gain during pregnancy can cause varicose veins and many other problems. Compression stockings prevent the occurrence of this disease. They are made of special medical jersey. This material puts pressure on the limbs, resulting in reduced swelling, improves blood circulation in the veins. Compression products can be made from both natural and synthetic fibers: elastoden, capron, cotton.

Compression classes

This is an indicator that indicates the intensity of the effect on the normalization of blood flow. There are three in total. The doctor should determine what indicator each particular woman needs. The following compression classes are distinguished:

  1. First. Pressure is not more than 23 mm. rt. Art. For people who don't have serious problems with the functioning of the vessels of the lower extremities. Serve to prevent the development of varicose veins. Shown to women who lead a sedentary lifestyle, and those who spend a lot of time on their feet.
  2. Second. Compression no more than 33 mm Hg. Art. Underwear (stockings, tights, stockings) of this class is prescribed for varicose veins or venous insufficiency. They are also necessary if during pregnancy there was a leg injury and muscle damage.
  3. The third. Pressure 45 mm Hg. Art. Products of this degree of compression are prescribed for those pregnant women who have had surgical intervention in the leg area or there is a trophic complication of varicose veins.
  4. Fourth. Compression 50 mmHg Art. are prescribed for severe violations of the lymph flow.

Do I need compression stockings for childbirth?

This question is asked by almost every pregnant woman. There are already a lot of expenses, so I would not want to buy something that is not absolutely necessary. It is important to understand why compression stockings are needed during childbirth. Modern doctors strongly recommend that every pregnant woman take them, or at least elastic bandages, with her, even if she has no indications, unpleasant symptoms and complaints.

Why do we need

Stockings have a number of indications because they have medicinal properties. Phlebologists (doctors who specialize in the treatment of varicose veins and other diseases of the veins) prescribe them for such diagnoses:

  • excessive swelling of the legs, causing severe discomfort;
  • venous eczema and dermatitis;
  • frequent feeling of tiredness;
  • pain in the legs;
  • frequent cramps in the calf muscles;
  • phlebeurysm;
  • thrombosis;
  • spider veins on the legs;
  • chronic venous insufficiency.

If a pregnant woman has a predisposition to any of the above diseases or she feels unpleasant symptoms in her legs, she will definitely need to take compression stockings to the hospital. Modern doctors and obstetricians recommend absolutely every woman in labor to buy them, even if there are no direct indications. They will help prevent a lot of problems that arise after childbirth or a caesarean section. Why do you need compression stockings in the hospital:

  • prevent varicose veins during contractions, intense labor activity, thrombosis;
  • promote the transport of oxygen and nutrients to tissues;
  • improve blood circulation and reduce the likelihood of blood clots, which is very high both during natural childbirth and during cesarean section;
  • reduce the likelihood of swelling of the extremities.

What compression stockings are needed for childbirth

Once again it is worth repeating that it is better for every woman to take such a product with her. It is desirable that a specific type of stocking for childbirth be recommended by a doctor. As a rule, prophylactic with a low level of compression is prescribed for girls who do not have any problems with the veins and complaints about the legs. Medical stockings will be needed for pregnant women with a number of complications, such as varicose veins, severe swelling. Anti-embolic births are rarely prescribed, only for serious pathologies.

Maternity stockings

Modern manufacturers offer a wide range of products. All stockings for caesarean section and childbirth are divided into three categories: preventive, therapeutic, anti-embolic. Products may vary in size, length, color, style features. Every pregnant woman, whatever her figure, will be able to choose and purchase a suitable option for herself in order to go to the hospital fully armed.

Preventive

Even if there are no problems with the veins, a woman is recommended to wear products of this type before giving birth. The following option will do:

  • model name: Tonus Elast, Medical compression stockings for childbirth class 1 (height 1) 0403;
  • price: 1000 rubles;
  • characteristics: made of elastic material based on polyamide and lycra, 6 sizes, for the prevention of thrombosis, varicose veins, pulmonary embolism, thrombophlebitis, 140 den;
  • pluses: improve heat transfer and blood circulation, soft and wide cuff on top, there are silicone strips to keep on the leg, nice dense fabric;
  • cons: difficult to put on.

Reviews of the following product are very good, many women prefer to buy it for childbirth. Description:

  • model name: Compression hospital stockings Venoteks, 1 degree, 1A210;
  • price: 1690 rubles;
  • characteristics: for the prevention of venous thrombosis and thromboembolism of arterial vessels, 4 sizes, white;
  • pluses: wash well, dense, there are holes for checking blood circulation;
  • cons: only one color, difficult to put on.

The following underwear has a lot of sizes, which can be an additional advantage for women with non-standard figures. Description:

  • model name: Mediven, Trombexin 18;
  • price: 1800 rubles;
  • characteristics: 9 sizes, to prevent the development of thrombosis, 1 compression class, porous knitting, with a hole for air circulation under the fingers;
  • pluses: precisely adjusted pressure gradient, optimal for normal blood flow, easy to put on, conveniently and securely fixed on the thigh, maintains optimal temperature and water balance of the skin, with antibacterial and antimicrobial effect;
  • cons: without assistance it is difficult to put on, wear out quickly.

Therapeutic

If a woman already has problems with veins, then she cannot do without the next product during childbirth. Description:

  • model name: Mediven Plus 3, silicone rubber compression stockings;
  • price: 6450 rubles;
  • characteristics: 7 sizes, there are standard and shortened models, 3 color options, with an elastic band made of inert silicone;
  • pros: easy to put on and take off, good hold, strong and wear-resistant material, breathable,
  • cons: they are expensive.

If you're about to have a caesarean section, consider purchasing your next delivery stockings. Description:

  • model name: Maxis N 51 - N 61, medical compression stockings closed toe;
  • price: 3050 rubles;
  • characteristics: 5 sizes, there are small and standard lengths, 2 colors;
  • pluses: soft, breathable, help maintain optimal temperature and water conditions, reinforced toe and heel;
  • cons: wear out quickly.

Many women took with them to the hospital next item and didn't regret it one bit. Description:

  • model name: B.Well, Rehab JW 222, compression stockings with fishnet top 22-29 mm;
  • price: 2090 rubles;
  • characteristics: 4 sizes, 5 colors, for the delicate treatment of varicose veins and other vascular diseases, knitting "voluminous honeycombs";
  • pluses: securely fixed on the leg, comfortable, do not squeeze the skin, blood vessels, made of elastic and elastic compression knitwear, compression is evenly distributed;
  • Cons: Difficult to put on.

Antiembolic

When choosing which stockings are best to take with you to childbirth, pay attention to the following option. Description:

  • model name: Anti-embolic stockings Relaxan Medicale, M2370A;
  • price: 1180 rubles;
  • characteristics: white, elasticated, compression class 1, open toe, 4 sizes, to prevent thromboembolic problems;
  • pluses: with a therapeutic effect, they are easy and quick to put on, there is a hole under the fingers to control the condition of the legs, under stockings and medications can be applied to them, they do not gather in folds;
  • cons: slip off your feet.

If you wear the following stockings for childbirth, you can not worry about the condition of your veins. Description:

  • model name: Ecoten, Antiembolic stockings Luomma Idealista, ID 380;
  • price: 1920 rubles;
  • characteristics: with silicone-based elastic and soft seam, compression class 2, white, 2 lengths, closed toe, 4 sizes, increased fiber capillarity;
  • pluses: comfortable, fit well to the leg, durable, elastic, wear-resistant, suitable for wide hip;
  • cons: you need to put on very carefully.

Girls who want to buy an inexpensive and effective product need to pay attention to the following stockings. Description:

  • model name: Compression stockings Intex, anti-embolic, AMC-1k;
  • price: 1235 rubles;
  • characteristics: white, for childbirth and operations, compression class 1, with an open cape, 4 sizes;
  • pluses: prevent the appearance of blood clots, there is a cutout to control the condition of the legs, elastic, durable;
  • Cons: Difficult to put on without help.

How to choose stockings for childbirth

Every pregnant woman is recommended to purchase such a product, because no one knows with absolute certainty how the birth of a baby will proceed and what may be needed in the process. You can buy stockings at a specialized outlet or order them in an online store with delivery from Moscow, St. Petersburg. Product Selection Tips:

  1. If you are going to have a caesarean section, it is better to buy an open-toe option so that the doctor controls the correct circulation of blood during the operation.
  2. Anti-embolic stockings should be worn if the delivery was difficult or there are serious pathologies of the venous system. They are allowed not to be removed for several days and not removed even during hygiene procedures.
  3. It is preferable that the product be made from natural materials with minimal addition of synthetics.
  4. It will be more convenient to wear seamless underwear.

How to choose compression stockings by size

The product must exactly fit your figure. To understand which size to buy, before going to the pharmacy, take the following measurements (immediately after waking up in the morning, until swelling appears):

  • girth of the lower leg above the ankle;
  • girth under the knee joint;
  • thigh girth at a distance of 25 cm from the knee (if the woman's height is more than 180 cm, then you need to add another 5 cm);
  • leg length from the measurement point of the thigh to the foot.

In accordance with the instructions of doctors, women are advised to use compression stockings for childbirth during pregnancy and delivery, which prevent the risk of developing varicose veins. Also, this underwear contributes to the treatment of vascular diseases, prevents the formation of blood clots and significantly reduces the enormous load on the legs.

Under the influence of increased intra-abdominal pressure, which is formed during the birth of a baby, characteristic stagnation phenomena develop in the pelvic organs and legs, which can lead to the formation of blood clots. Therapeutic stockings distribute the load in the legs so that maximum pressure falls on the shins, which prevents the appearance.

Unfortunately, not every woman in labor knows that in the process of delivery there is always a risk of developing diseases of the veins and blood vessels of the legs. Pregnancy is always associated with a lot of stress for the body.

During this period, large blood vessels and arteries are squeezed, which is due to the pressure of the growing uterus. Together, this leads to the development of congestive phenomena in the legs and small pelvis.

Natural childbirth, and also implies a long stay of a woman in a horizontal position, which exacerbates the above symptoms. An important factor is intra-abdominal pressure, which negatively affects the condition of the veins.

With the combined effect of these causes, both large vessels and small capillaries are damaged, and the risk of thrombosis increases.

The use of compression stockings allows you to distribute pressure in the leg area, improve blood circulation and significantly reduce the load.

An important factor is the fact that medical underwear helps to reduce physical fatigue, which is invariably associated with labor.

To achieve the maximum effect, especially in the presence of symptoms of vein diseases, it is recommended to use stockings not only during childbirth, but also in the postpartum period, as well as during pregnancy.

Products of this kind are made mainly from natural fabrics, which implies the absolute safety of their use. They do not cause discomfort in the process of wearing, while providing a preventive effect.

Classes

There are four classes of compression stockings, each designed for use in the presence of certain symptoms of vascular disease. In order to make the right choice, it is best to visit a phlebologist who will determine the appropriate class of linen in each case.

You should not buy stockings on your own, based on someone else's recommendations. The exception is preventive underwear, which is recommended for all women during pregnancy to relieve fatigue and tension in the legs. These stockings do not belong to any class.

The main classes of medical underwear are the following:

  • 1 class. Stockings classified in this category exert a pressure of no more than 23 mm Hg on the legs. They are recommended for wearing in the presence of minor symptoms of diseases of the veins and blood vessels, which can be expressed in the following manifestations: enlarged veins, the appearance of so-called "stars", swelling, fatigue in the legs.
  • Grade 2 In this case, the compression does not exceed 33 mm Hg. Art. Underwear of this kind has on the legs not only a preventive, but also a therapeutic effect, eliminating the early manifestations of varicose veins and thrombosis.
  • Grade 3 In this case, the pressure is already about 45 mm Hg. Art. Such underwear is most often used for moderate and severe degrees of damage to blood vessels and veins.
  • 4th grade. The compression pressure of such stockings exceeds 50 mm Hg. Art. It is possible to wear underwear of this class only in case of severe violations of the lymph flow. It prevents the development of complications and eliminates severe swelling.

Kinds

In addition to the level of compression pressure, stockings are also categorized according to types. Which option is better to use in a particular case, it is better to decide after consulting a doctor.

Each of these types has both pluses and minuses:

  • Elastic bandages. This is the worst option for a pregnant woman. Bandages can cause significant damage to blood vessels if they are wound incorrectly, pinching some areas and leaving others free. However, subject to the rules, this is a good option for childbirth due to its availability and prevalence.
  • Knee socks. You can use knee socks only during pregnancy, and only in cases where problems with veins and blood vessels affect only the lower part of the legs. It is not recommended to purchase such underwear for childbirth, as pressure on the thigh area increases.
  • Stockings. This is the best option for medical underwear. They exert even pressure on the legs, distributing the load and not affecting the abdomen. This option is most convenient during childbirth as a prevention of venous and vascular diseases.
  • Tights. Such underwear has all the advantages of stockings, but they can only be used during pregnancy. In addition, tights can put pressure on the abdomen, which is fraught with the development of negative consequences.

Dimensions

Compression stockings for childbirth - how to choose the right size? This aspect is important, since only properly selected underwear will protect the legs from negative effects and prevent the development of diseases of the veins and blood vessels.

Before purchasing stockings, you should determine some sizes of parts of the legs, using a centimeter tape when performing this manipulation: you need to find out the girth of the lower, upper parts of the lower leg and thigh.

You should also calculate the length of the leg up to the upper thigh measurement. It is on the basis of these figures that the optimal stocking size is selected.

Terms of use

In order to achieve the maximum effect from the use of stockings, you must follow some rules. Neglecting them may not cause harm, but the benefits will ultimately be minimal.

  • In order to determine whether stockings are needed, you should consult a doctor. He will determine the type and class of underwear in accordance with individual physiological characteristics.
  • Linen should be made exclusively from natural materials. Deviation from this rule and the acquisition of stockings of dubious quality can provoke the development of allergic or other negative reactions from the body.
  • Stockings should be selected exclusively in accordance with the size of the pregnant woman. Otherwise, the compression pressure will be unnecessarily high, or, on the contrary, low, which prevents the achievement of a positive effect.

You can use compression stockings not only during childbirth, but also during pregnancy. The presence or absence of violations of the activity of blood vessels is not a prerequisite, that is, you can wear underwear designed exclusively for prevention.

Childbirth is a responsible and long-awaited period when a woman becomes a mother. But, alas, as a result of an increased load on the body, often just at this time chronic diseases become aggravated and some unpleasant symptoms appear. Varicose veins - refers to such diseases. To avoid complications of this pathology, compression stockings for childbirth are increasingly used. This is a medical special underwear with a slimming effect. Birth stockings are made from both natural and synthetic fabrics.

Why are compression stockings needed during childbirth?

Why do we need compression stockings during childbirth, the doctor must definitely explain to women who suffer from varicose veins or have a predisposition to it. It is this underwear that will help facilitate childbirth by distributing pressure so that the maximum load is transferred from the hips to the calf muscles. This not only improves blood flow, but the blood does not stagnate in the vessels. Also, stockings help maintain muscle tone, as a result of which the muscles do their job more efficiently.

Stockings for childbirth are not too easy to put on, so it is better for pregnant women to put them on even at the first contractions and take the help of relatives. This underwear, thanks to a special weave, is seamless, which protects against friction.

Compression stockings for childbirth venoteks are the most popular among women. They are represented by a wide range of models and comply with Russian State Standards. Stockings have an average degree of wear resistance and are distinguished by a relatively low cost, on average from 650 rubles to 1600 rubles. Medical underwear is recommended to be worn not only during childbirth, but also before and for some time after them. Compression stockings prevent the development and progression of varicose veins and thrombophlebitis, which is very important because these diseases cannot be cured.

According to experts, during the first pregnancy, varicose veins are detected in up to 30% of women, and in subsequent ones - already in half.

You need to understand that if the first signs of the disease, such as:

  • aching pains;
  • spider veins (a network of small vessels translucent through the skin);
  • heavy legs syndrome;

were observed even before pregnancy and childbirth, then in this difficult perinatal period for the body, without taking preventive measures, the disease will most likely develop and will bring trouble.

Almost all oral medications are contraindicated during pregnancy or should be taken with caution. Doctors advise the local use of venotonics - venarus, lyoton, detralox and venoruton.

What material are maternity stockings made from?

Compression stockings for childbirth are made of elastic dense material that fits the figure. Thanks to this, muscle tone is maintained in the legs, that is, the muscles function continuously, blood circulation improves, which helps to avoid congestion, swelling and blood clots.

Medical jersey fabric has:

  • excellent ability to restore the original size;
  • good air and moisture exchange;
  • high elasticity.

In addition, they are non-toxic, safe and low-allergenic, do not cause itching and other irritant reactions, do not stretch.

The composition of the material includes lycra, natural cotton and rubber threads, microfiber.

How to choose compression stockings?

Before choosing compression stockings, you need to consult a doctor and familiarize yourself with various brands of medical underwear. Medical knitwear is produced in various sizes, colors (white, black, nude) and varying degrees compression.

Birth stockings have their own characteristics:

  • The presence in the abdomen of a special tensile insert, which does not put pressure on the "grown up" tummy.
  • Compression is physiologically distributed, accurately calculated, graduated, measured in mm Hg. Art. and dosed, compression underwear is never marked in dens.
  • Innovative technologies allow you to precisely match the compression parameters.
  • Therapeutic stockings retain all their properties for at least six months of daily use.

For childbirth, you can wear the same compression underwear that you wore during pregnancy. They must be clean, as sterility is observed in the maternity ward.

If a woman does not have spider veins and protruding veins, then it is enough to purchase prophylactic compression stockings for childbirth venotex.
Hospital or anti-embolic knitwear is also produced, which is specifically designed for childbirth and the postpartum period. This type of stockings can be worn without taking off for up to a week, even when taking a shower. In such models, the toe is always open in order to observe blood circulation in the limbs on the fingers. Only hospital stockings can be washed at 70C.

Do not try to save money, high-quality stockings cannot cost as much as ordinary tights. But the therapeutic and preventive effect depends on the quality. It is better to purchase compression stockings in pharmacies or specialized stores.

To determine the correct size, you need to measure the widest part of the lower leg and the thickness of the ankle just above the bone. The results of measurements should be compared with a special table, according to which you can find out the right size.

Be sure to consult with a phlebologist. It is he who will help determine the compression class, after conducting an ultrasound scan. There are 4 classes of compression, 1-2 protect against complications and have a preventive effect.

Maternity stockings must be worn all day, only removed at night or for a few hours during the day.

How to wear stockings?

Compression stockings are not as easy to put on as normal stockings. This is done immediately after sleep, gently, without getting out of bed. Do not twist or overstretch knitwear.
First of all, you need to assemble the upper part into an accordion. Next, inserting the palms inward, carefully put on the foot, slowly straightening, pull on the shin and up the leg.

From this article you will learn: what are compression stockings for childbirth, how to choose the right onestocking size and what are compression classes, how to properly put on stockings for childbirth andrecommendations for their care.

During pregnancy, the body is rebuilt: the hormonal background changes, blood volume increases, changes occur in the pelvic organs. Such changes can lead to the development of pathologies - varicose veins and thrombophlebitis. To avoid complications in childbirth, obstetricians recommend wearing medical underwear.

Compression stockings for childbirth tighten and create pressure in the legs, maintaining muscle tone. Knitwear does not allow stagnation of blood and the formation of blood clots. The risk of varicose veins is reduced.

What are compression stockings?

Stockings are made of natural and synthetic fabrics in white or cream color. The composition of the materials does not use latex, which does not cause allergies. Silicone gum in the area of ​​the upper third of the thigh fixes the stocking, which will affect the convenience - they do not slip or roll. An open toe or a hole in the sole improves air and moisture exchange, helps the doctor monitor the state of microcirculation in the legs of the woman in labor.

In the series "stockings for childbirth » Compression stockings for caesarean section are isolated. Stockings are produced in pairs and separately (stocking for one leg), for a standard and wide thigh. Anatomical knit follows the contour of the leg and fits snugly to the body, creating a compression effect.

Compression classes

hospitals are used during childbirth stockings of the 1st and 2nd classes.


Why are stockings better for childbirth than stockings?

Golfs will only protect the vessels and veins of the lower leg, while in the femoral veins it will remain high blood pressure blood. Stockings to the thigh will reduce the load on the vessels from the foot to the groin.

How to measure your foot correctly

Stockings for childbirth are selected according to the individual measurements of the legs of the woman in labor. Indicators are taken in the morning, immediately after waking up, before the appearance of possible edema.

  1. We measure the thickness of the ankle (b), the bottleneck above the bones, in the area of ​​the ankle joint.
  2. Measure the circumference under the kneecap (d).
  3. Additionally, we measure the circumference of the thigh (g), 5 cm below the inguinal region.
  4. The measurement results are compared with a special table proposed by the manufacturer. Please note that the size selection table for each manufacturer is individual.


If you doubt that you can choose the right size, then entrust the sizing to professionals. Consultants of salons or specialists of the online store will help you make the right choice. You can contact the salon or call the help desk.

Putting on stockings correctly

Medical stockings for childbirth are put on with effort, not like ordinary hosiery. If you can’t put them on yourself, ask the medical staff or relatives for help.

We collect the upper part of the stocking “into an accordion”, carefully put it on the foot (first on the fingers, then on the heel), slowly straighten it, slightly pulling it up the leg. The stocking is not twisted.

Attention: elastic bandages do not guarantee the exact distribution of pressure on the leg. The correctness of their imposition depends entirely on the skills and abilities of the medical staff. Only in anti-embolic jersey the pressure is already calculated and dosed.

With natural childbirth, we put on stockings at the first contractions. You can do it earlier if you're afraid that you won't be able to do it between contractions.

With an upcoming caesarean section - immediately before the operation, unless the doctor prescribed a different mode of wearing compression stockings.

Childbirth and the first 7 days after are considered dangerous time for thromboembolic complications. Therefore, doctors recommend wearing knitwear in the postpartum period. During surgical childbirth and in women in labor at risk, stockings are used around the clock.

Further mode and timing of wearing compression products is determined by the attending physician.

Product care


How to choose stockings for childbirth?

It is better to choose stockings together with a gynecologist or phlebologist. The doctor will select a product with the required degree of compression, taking into account the well-being of the woman in labor, the course of pregnancy and concomitant diseases.

On the natural childbirth if there are no problems with veins, it is recommended to purchase stockings of the 1st class. For a planned caesarean section, as well as for varicose veins, a 2nd class is assigned, but the final verdict is up to the doctor.

A brief description of the advantages of different companies will help you decide on the manufacturer.

Stockings Medi

Stockings are made in Germany. Mediven German knitwear is the only one of the presented brands that has a clinically proven medical effect.

The size of hospital products Copper is easy to choose - you need to measure only 2 parameters. Stockings are thin in structure, but stretch well, so they are suitable for any height.

Special weaving technology allows you to put them on without assistance. And the “putting on indicator” will tell you if you put on the stockings well.

Threads with silver ions are woven into the toe part, which provides an antimicrobial effect and prevents the appearance of an unpleasant odor.

Stockings withstand 10 washes at temperatures up to 95 degrees. Compression is maintained for 30 days if you do not remove the stockings.

The price of Medi is slightly higher than other brands, but the quality of the stockings, safety and medical effectiveness are worth it!

Hospital stockings are produced in St. Petersburg under the control of a Finnish company. Soft flat seams do not leave marks on the body and do not rub the skin. Silicone elastic band securely fixes the product on the leg and does not put pressure on the thigh. Luomma stockings with a closed toe have a foot size limit of 37 - 43. Delicate washing is recommended for products at a temperature not exceeding 30 degrees, as more high temperatures water can affect compression.

Stockings of the European quality with an open toe, are made in Italy. The porous knitting of the stockings provides a comfortable microclimate for the legs, the skin under them breathes and does not sweat. A wide elastic band securely fixes the stocking on the leg, does not squeeze and does not disturb the blood flow. The size is selected according to 3 parameters, because the stockings are less extensible compared to Copper. Accordingly, it is more difficult for women with wide calves and hips to "get in size." These stockings can be worn up to 3 days. Care: hand wash 30-95 degrees.

If you have any questions about how to use compression stockings for childbirth - write toquestion in our social media communities. If you have a question about choosing stockings for the maternity hospital- Request a call back or call us toll free.