Blog What Are The Best Compression stocking For Maternity?

In pregnancy, compression socks can help promote blood flow to your lower legs and relieve swelling by stimulating blood flow. You'll want comfortable compression socks for size, material, and compression level during pregnancy.

There are several styles of compression socks available, including ankle socks and knee-high socks. The compression level will vary throughout the sock depending on the body part, such as calves and ankles. 

Considering other features, such as ease of cleaning and odor control, is important when choosing compression socks. We researched popular choices from trusted brands to find the best option with these helpful features.

Best overall: Comrad compression stockings

In various fun colors and designs, these knee-high compression socks offer relief for the foot and entire calf. Pregnant women can move up to the 20-30 mmHg graduated compression for more extreme swelling. 

These socks are made primarily of nylon and a little spandex and should be left to dry to prevent shrinkage.

With these socks, you can keep your feet fresh and odor-free all day, featuring SmartSilver ions. A non-marking cuff and cushioned toe area provide added comfort. The design is contoured to fit your leg.  

Best comfort: Dr. Segal's pregnancy stockings 

This pair of socks is wildly popular, featuring a blend of cotton, lycra, and nylon. A wide top comfort band prevents pinching, chafing, and rolling the socks as close as possible to a regular pair. 

Cushioning has been added to high-wear areas like the toe and heel to ensure comfort and durability. A chart with calf and ankle sizes lets you get the right size.

Best budget: Fuelmefoot copper compression stockings

A variety of affordable compression socks will ease your life if you wear them daily. For $20, you'll get six of these in various colors and designs. 

The toe area includes an extra layer for extra wiggle room and breathability. Users note that these reduce swelling, easily get on and off, and perform well. Providing comfort and a comfortable level of compression is a good value.

Best open-toe: Doc Miller premium open-toe compression stockings

Seamless, woven construction and a snug fit make these open-toe compression socks super comfortable with their continual compression wear. Once on, these nylon and spandex compression tights are a bit challenging to get on, but they provide excellent blood circulation. 

These 20-30 mmHg compression socks are medical-grade and are guaranteed not to fall off due to the non-binding top cuff. Doc Miller's striped shoes are available in multiple sizes and stylish patterns to fit any foot. 

Best splurge: Sockwell on-the-spot graduated compression stockings

Although these are more expensive, the benefits of owning them are worth the cost. A popular brand of medical staff, these have graduated compression zones with a moderate 15-20 mmHg pressure, minimizing swelling and fatigue. 

Even though these contain 33 percent merino wool, most reviewers say they wear them in summer and have no complaints about how they breathe.

Best for exercise: Physix gear sport compression stockings

When exercising, you should wear compression socks that are comfortable, breathable, and made of durable material. This pair of socks contains quality lycra that will last a long time. These offer medical-grade compression at 20-30 mmHg, available in various colors. 

A cuff at the top of the boot keeps them in place, while the ankle support adds extra comfort. When you are unhappy with the results, the company offers your money back. 

Best designs: Sigvaris Women's Sheer Fashion 120 Maternity Compression Pantyhose

Light compression socks give you relief and maximize circulation while offering light compression. Gradient compression around the ankles prevents pooling by forcing blood circulation up to the heart. A non-binding top band and a smooth bottom provide 15-20 mmHg of reduction. 

This is a great choice if you're looking for a lightweight compression sock with a wide selection of design options. This pair of socks is the best choice for maternity. 

The best compression socks for pregnancy

Compression level 

When purchasing compression socks, you should consider the compression level first. An mmHg (millimeters of mercury) level indicates increased pressure, while a higher number means less stress. 

The pressure level in a sock varies throughout the sock, often higher at the ankle. The same benefits can be obtained with lighter compression levels for some people. 

Fabric 

Your fabric choice will depend on the time and when you will wear your compression socks. It may be best to choose cotton socks if you plan to wear them at night. Those planning to exercise or live in hot climates may benefit from nylon-spandex blends. 

Size 

Finding the right fit in compression socks is important to reap the maximum benefits. Ensure that both your feet and calves are the right size. Otherwise, you'll not wear them if they're too snug.  

Why are compression socks ideal for pregnancy?

The composition of your blood changes during pregnancy, increasing your risk of blood clots. It increases your risk of developing deep vein thrombosis (DVT), which can travel to the lungs and lead to pulmonary emboli. 

Pregnancy also causes you to retain more water. As well as reducing swelling and discomfort, compression socks can boost blood circulation. Even with compression socks, deep vein thrombosis can still occur, but the risk can be greatly reduced.

Is it safe to wear compression socks throughout your entire pregnancy?

While you may need to size up, compression socks are safe throughout pregnancy. Compression socks are essential for pregnant women's health and comfort during pregnancy.