While the weight of the baby and hormonal changes cause mothers to change physically, one of these differences is that their feet become like drums, so to speak.
We explain to those who are curious about the scientific explanation of this situation, which creates a desire to walk barefoot even in winter months when there are no old shoes. While research shows why, it suggests that permanent growth varies depending on the number of births.
Why do feet grow during pregnancy but not when weight is gained?
Hormonal changes occur during pregnancy and this is the basis of body changes. The increase in the relaxin hormone in our body, which increases during pregnancy, is also an important factor in foot growth.
The relaxin hormone, which is secreted during pregnancy as well as during the menstrual cycle, is present not only in women but also in men. This hormone causes prostate relaxation in men; It is also effective in the recovery of tissue in tendon, muscle, ligament and bone injuries in both genders.
What exactly is the effect of the relaxin hormone that causes feet to feel like balloons?
Back on topic, the relaxin hormone is produced during pregnancy to help loosen the pelvic ligaments and joints so that the baby can pass through the birth canal more easily. This relaxation affects the entire body as well as the feet and other joints.
It also stretches the ligaments around the feet and ankles, making the feet wider and longer. Of course, when the baby’s increasing weight, kidney functions and increased cardiac output are added to this tension, the feet continue to swell and grow.
Beware of the side effects of foot enlargement during pregnancy!
Having less arch support in loosened feet is also one of the factors that increases the risk of ankle sprains and falls. In addition, with weight gain, it can also cause problems such as various pains in the feet, muscle and tendon tension, and inflammation of the tissue band.
Curving the spine and pelvis inwards to support the growing abdomen and establish body balance changes the center of gravity. This change, which causes a leaning back posture, also causes flat feet in some women.
Although it has been known as an urban legend for years, research has been done on the growth of feet during pregnancy and it has been proven to be true.
49 pregnant women participated in a study conducted by the American Journal of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation. 60 to 70 percent of women followed from the beginning of pregnancy to five months after birth were found to have wider and longer feet.
The research showed that this change also affected the arch height. Decreased bone height and stiffness also caused the foot to lengthen by 2 to 10 mm.
Another situation suggested in the study is that foot growth is more effective in the first pregnancies, and the possibility of change in foot size and shape may be less in the second and subsequent pregnancies.
Although studies give an average size of 10 mm, this should also be asked of those who had to change all their shoes after pregnancy. Because it is also known that there are women with foot growths of up to 2 cm. We think that the only people who are happy about this situation are the shoe companies.
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