The veins in my legs hurt and swell so much during my menstrual cycle that it's hard to walk. What's going on?

I'm 26 and have 2 kids. The veins in my legs hurt and swell so much during my menstrual cycle that it's hard to walk. What's going on?

Answers from doctors (4)


More About Doctor David Green, MD

Published on May 02, 2021

During the menstrual cycle, changing hormone levels can have a direct effect on the vasculature especially in the pelvis and the lower extremities. Dilation of veins can cause 'venous congestion' that can be symptomatic, sometimes significantly so. You need to be evaluated by a venous vascular specialist who understands this problem and knows what duplex ultrasound testing needs to be done. The duplex ultrasound technician, likewise, needs to be knowledgeable in this area otherwise a cursory exam will only reveal the absence of blood clots without properly identifying the problem.

Answered by David Green, MD (View Profile)

During the menstrual cycle, changing hormone levels can have a direct effect on the vasculature especially in the pelvis and the lower extremities. Dilation of veins can cause 'venous congestion' that can be symptomatic, sometimes significantly so. You need to be evaluated by a venous vascular specialist who understands this problem and knows what duplex ultrasound testing needs to be done. The duplex ultrasound technician, likewise, needs to be knowledgeable in this area otherwise a cursory exam will only reveal the absence of blood clots without properly identifying the problem.

Published on Jul 11, 2012


More About Doctor Laser Vein Center

Published on Aug 30, 2016

You should have an clinical and ultrasound evaluation by a vein expert to determine what the best treatment for you is. It is likely that you have vein insufficiency. Good luck on your journey to better feeling legs.

Answered by Laser Vein Center (View Profile)

You should have an clinical and ultrasound evaluation by a vein expert to determine what the best treatment for you is. It is likely that you have vein insufficiency. Good luck on your journey to better feeling legs.

Published on Jul 11, 2012


Vanish Vein and Laser Center

Published on Aug 30, 2016

It is normal to retain fluid during the menstrual period. However, if you are having leg discomfort and swelling, it would be prudent to obtain a venous ultrasound to see the status of the valves in the saphenous system of veins to see if you have venous insufficiency. If you have varicose veins, then treating the veins may help. If you have only leg swelling, then support hose will help. See a board-certified vein specialist.

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Answered by Vanish Vein and Laser Center

It is normal to retain fluid during the menstrual period. However, if you are having leg discomfort and swelling, it would be prudent to obtain a venous ultrasound to see the status of the valves in the saphenous system of veins to see if you have venous insufficiency. If you have varicose veins, then treating the veins may help. If you have only leg swelling, then support hose will help. See a board-certified vein specialist.

Published on Jul 11, 2012


The Sheen Vein Institute

Published on Aug 29, 2016

You have vein disease. What happens during your cycle is that outside of the obvious, the hormones that are released to generate your period, also cause your vein structure to dilate. This dilation occurs because your hormones are basically trying to increase blood flow so that your body can carry a baby. This is why your discomfort is probably greatest a couple of days before your actual period. This is when your hormones are at their peak out side of actually getting pregnant. When your vein dilate, both your good and bad veins dilate. The good veins just increase your blood flow. The bad veins all more venous blood to pool in them. The result is an increase in inflammation and thus discomfort. Once you actually have your period and your hormones drop back down, your bad veins will shrink back down subsequently causing less inflammation and less discomfort. If your legs are bothering you that much, you really need to have them addressed by someone who will actually fix your leg veins. The goal is to fix your venous circulation which is the source of your discomfort and not just fix 1-2 veins. That doc needs to address all parts of your legs which can take a few months. Only then will you really see how well your legs will feel.

//imgs-origin.edoctors.com/imageresizer/image/user_uploads/58x58_85-1/doctors/1116_1499984661.jpg
Answered by The Sheen Vein Institute

You have vein disease. What happens during your cycle is that outside of the obvious, the hormones that are released to generate your period, also cause your vein structure to dilate. This dilation occurs because your hormones are basically trying to increase blood flow so that your body can carry a baby. This is why your discomfort is probably greatest a couple of days before your actual period. This is when your hormones are at their peak out side of actually getting pregnant. When your vein dilate, both your good and bad veins dilate. The good veins just increase your blood flow. The bad veins all more venous blood to pool in them. The result is an increase in inflammation and thus discomfort. Once you actually have your period and your hormones drop back down, your bad veins will shrink back down subsequently causing less inflammation and less discomfort. If your legs are bothering you that much, you really need to have them addressed by someone who will actually fix your leg veins. The goal is to fix your venous circulation which is the source of your discomfort and not just fix 1-2 veins. That doc needs to address all parts of your legs which can take a few months. Only then will you really see how well your legs will feel.

Published on Jul 11, 2012


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