Recs for compression/support tights for pregnancy and varicose veins?

MDmomma1217

I've had varicose and spider veins on my legs since my early 20's (it runs in my family) and it got worse when I was pregnant with my daughter. I have a few that bulge and look dark like bruises, so I am a bit self-conscious in the summer showing off my legs. I've already told DH after this LO is born I definitely want to look into my options for treatment, such as laser therapy. At my last appointment, my midwife suggested that I wear some kind of support hose during pregnancy so it doesn't get any worse. Getting out of the shower today I notice I have a patch of spider veins on my thigh that look new, ugh. I am just now looking online for some kind of compression tights or hose that help with this in pregnancy, but I really don't know where to start (and some are very pricey!). If anyone could recommend a particular brand/website/store to buy, I would greatly appreciate it! 

born2run911

Jobst are a great brand. I had to wear thigh high monsters with my last pregnancy. They are so itchy/hot though (probably all stockings are). They were very expensive but my insurance covered them. I am starting this time with knee highs and when the time comes *sigh*, I will put my big girl stockings on.

BostonBaby1

I personally recommend that you get a prescription from your doctor. Sometimes insurance will help pay for them and I recommend thigh highs. Specialty pharmacies will be able to order them for you. That way it won't compress your belly as it grows.

MDmomma1217

@born2run911 Thank you for the suggestion - I will look into that brand. 

@BostonBaby1 Would you recommend a particular brand? Do you have any issues with the thigh highs slipping down throughout the day? Thanks for the suggestion, I will ask my doctor about the prescription.

BostonBaby1

@MDmomma1217 I honestly can't remember which brand I used, I think that my pharmacy did not have much of a choice. Whatever insurance covered was what I got. But they're nice. I haven't had any real issues with the thigh highs slipping down. They have some plastic on the backing of the bands and I find that so long as I don't use any sort of powder, they stick very well. If I need a little bit of extra stick, a tiny bit of lotion can help. Also, I pull them up securely every time I use the ladies room. It's actually really much more convenient than it sounds.

AL_TwinCities

@MDmomma1217 I'm right there with you - have had varicose veins for years. I'm thinking I'll ask my doctor about this next week. And long flowy dresses in summer hides the legs but let's you stay cool! Planning on stocking up on a few more maxis.

born2run911

@MDmomma1217 you can also get them from a chiropodist with a prescription. It is important that you get measurements done so that they fit properly.