Pregnancy & Postpartum Compression FAQ

It applies the firmest pressure at the ankle and gradually decreases up the leg. This helps push blood back toward your heart, reduces fluid buildup, and eases swelling and heaviness.

Support stockings give even pressure. Medical compression uses graduated pressure, which is far more effective for pregnancy swelling and circulation.

It can reduce swelling, ease leg fatigue and aching, improve circulation, and help prevent or minimise varicose veins and blood clots.

No — properly fitted compression should not worsen swelling. If swelling increases or is only in one leg, contact your doctor.

Yes — it helps reduce fluid build up in the legs and ankles.

Yes — it supports vein function and reduces the risk of them developing or getting worse.

Many women find they reduce cramping and restless legs by improving circulation.

It refers to the amount of pressure applied to your legs, measured in mmHg. Higher numbers mean stronger support.

Different levels support circulation in different ways. Choosing the right one helps reduce swelling and discomfort without being too tight.

Most pregnancy related swelling responds well to Class 1 (15–20 mmHg). If symptoms are more pronounced or your doctor recommends stronger support, Class 2 (23–32 mmHg) may be appropriate. See our Compression Levels Guide for more detail.

Not for Class 1 or Class 2. Higher levels (Class 3+) require medical supervision.

Most women start with Class 1 because it’s gentle and effective. However, if your swelling is already significant, check with your doctor first before starting Class 2.

Remove them immediately if you feel numbness, pins and needles, cold feet, colour changes, or rhythmic throbbing.

Seek medical advice promptly — one-sided swelling can be a sign of DVT.

Not necessarily — the best style depends on where you experience swelling and what feels comfortable. See our Compression Styles Guide for a full breakdown.

Yes. The compression starts at the ankle, so both styles work the same. Open toe options are great for warm weather, toe sensitivity, or sandals.

Choose thigh highs if swelling or varicose veins extend above the knee or if you need full leg support postpartum.

Yes — ankle sleeves help with puffy feet and ankles, while arch support or plantar fasciitis socks can ease mild foot discomfort.

Match the style to your symptoms:
• Knee-highs for lower leg swelling
• Thigh-highs for symptoms above the knee
• Open-toe for breathability or swollen toes
• Zip styles for easier wear in late pregnancy
• Ankle styles for foot-only swelling

Class 1 knee high socks — they’re easy to wear and target the lower leg, where swelling and those 'disappearing ankles' usually start.

No. TED socks are designed for immobility (bed rest, surgery recovery), not for sitting upright, standing, or walking. For travel, Class 1 knee high compression socks are the safest and most effective option.

Snug, firm, and supportive — especially around the ankle. It should never feel painful or restrictive.

Yes, many mums do! When compression is working well, your legs often feel noticeably lighter, less heavy and achy. Some women with cold feet notice they feel warmer. Many say they only really notice the difference when they take the socks off — their legs feel more tired and swollen again.

First thing in the morning, before swelling starts. For travel or long days on your feet, put them on before leaving the house.

Anytime you’re standing, sitting for long periods, or travelling. Swelling commonly starts in the second trimester, for some women it begins earlier especially from your second child onwards. In the third trimester your baby puts increasing pressure on the veins in your pelvis, which slows blood flow from your legs back to your heart. Combined with your body holding onto more fluid, this makes the third trimester the most common time for noticeable swelling in the feet and ankles.

Yes — and if you're dealing with pregnancy swelling in the heat, compression is actually more important, not less. Heat causes blood vessels to dilate, which can make swelling and heaviness significantly worse. The good news is there are styles designed specifically for warm weather. Open-toe knee-highs allow your toes to breathe freely, footless styles keep your feet completely unrestricted, and lighter fabrics help manage temperature without sacrificing support. If you find compression feels too warm, switching to an open-toe or footless style is usually all it takes. Staying well hydrated and putting your socks on first thing in the morning before the heat builds also makes a big difference.

Not necessarily — many women wear them on days with more standing, sitting, or swelling.

Yes — you can remove them anytime.

Yes — most people wear them during waking hours and remove them before bed unless advised otherwise.

Generally no. Compression is designed for daytime use when you're upright and gravity is working against you. At night, lying down, your body doesn't need the same support, and your veins benefit from a break.

Yes — they support circulation and reduce swelling during long flights.

Yes. They help maintain healthy blood flow and reduce the increased risk of DVT during long periods of sitting.

Helpful for any flight, but especially those longer than 3–4 hours.

They support circulation during long periods of sitting, which helps reduce DVT risk.

Yes — long car trips can cause just as much swelling as flights.

First thing in the morning or before leaving for the airport or car trip.

Yes — compression can support circulation during low impact exercise like walking or prenatal classes.

Generally you will need to know your ankle, calf, thigh circumference (depending on the garment type) and sometimes your height and weight. Higher grades of gradient compression may require additional measurements. Once you have your measurements refer to the sizing chart on each product page for brand-specific measurements.

This usually means the size or style isn’t right. A different size or a shorter length often solves the issue.

A slight indent is normal, but deep marks or discomfort mean the band may be too tight. Try a different size or a softer top band.

Typically 3–6 months, depending on wear and washing.

After each wear to maintain elasticity and hygiene.

Hand wash or use a gentle machine cycle. Never use a dryer — heat damages the elastic fibres. Dry flat in the shade.

Two to three pairs make it easier to rotate while washing.

Yes — for most women. If you have arterial circulation issues, reduced sensation, active skin conditions, heart conditions, or a recent DVT, speak with your doctor first.

Yes — those with arterial disease, severe neuropathy, active skin infections, or untreated heart conditions should seek medical advice first.

You can stop anytime your symptoms improve. Some women wear compression only during pregnancy, while others continue postpartum or during travel.

Seek medical advice immediately — this can be a sign of DVT.

Swelling in only one leg, pain or tenderness (often in the calf), warm skin, redness or discoloration. If you experience any of these, seek medical attention immediately.

Is postpartum swelling normal?

How long should I wear compression after giving birth?

Is compression helpful after a c-section?

Can compression help with postpartum varicose veins?

Can I wear compression while breastfeeding?

Is it safe to wear compression if I had stitches or tearing?

Do I need a different compression level postpartum?