Pregnancy swelling is not a minor complaint. Extra blood volume, a growing bump pressing on the veins returning blood from your legs, and ankles that have disappeared by evening. Graduated compression is one of the few things that genuinely helps, and it is routinely suggested by midwives and obstetricians.
How it works
Firmest at the ankle, easing toward the knee, working with your calf muscle to move blood back up rather than letting it pool around your feet.
Wearing them
Put them on first thing in the morning, before swelling sets in — this matters more in pregnancy than at any other time. Take them off at night. Two pairs so one can always be clean.
Also worth having for long flights, where sitting still and pregnancy compound each other.
Before you buy
Mention compression socks at your next appointment. They are commonly recommended in pregnancy, but if you have high blood pressure, pre-eclampsia, or any circulation issue, your provider should be the one who says yes.