Varicose veins are a common change during pregnancy, caused by increased blood volume, hormonal effects that relax vein walls, and the growing uterus placing pressure on veins that carry blood from the legs back to the heart. As a result, blood can pool in the leg veins, making them appear swollen, twisted, or bulging. Many pregnant women notice them developing in the legs, feet, or even the pelvic area, especially during the second and third trimesters as circulation works harder. While varicos