In the later stages of pregnancy, you might find your legs and feet start to become a little swollen, which is where compression socks can really help.
Pregnancy comes with so many symptoms that can feel uncomfortable, so it's no surprise we need some of the best products to help ease the discomfort of some of those symptoms.
The best compression socks for pregnancy at a glance:
Compression socks help to reduce the swelling and lower the risk of developing deep vein thrombosis. Many people associate compression socks with something older people wear, however, there are plenty of options to choose from, including younger styles, bright colours and funky designs.
The best compression socks for pregnancy 2023
Best overall compression socks
The two pairs in this set look just like normal knee highs, so no one will ever know you're wearing compression socks unless you tell them. We like the stylish design of the Calves Kelson Compression Socks, with plain black legs and a striking pink heel. The nylon and elastic material is stretchy and flexible, and as they were created using a 3D knitting technique, there are no uncomfortable seams to worry about either.
One review said: "Bought these as heavily pregnant and swelling in feet was painful. I actually have ankles again and my feet are less painful. Bought the L/XL size to accommodate pregnancy bloating and fit well.. not too snug. Would highly recommend great value, 2 pairs (one to wear/one to wash) will be recommending to any pregnant woman in need of cankle relief. I feel less rage overall."
Pros
- Breathable and comfortable
- Thin but long lasting
Cons
- Some found them too long
| Available in sizes: | S-M and L-XL |
- 360 degree stretch and flexibility
- Two pack
Best three pack compression socks
We love the Litthing Compression Socks as they come in colourful designs and look nothing like the surgical stockings you’re given in hospital. This three-pack includes spots, hearts and even a heart rate pattern. Made from nylon and polyamide, these socks are breathable and moisture wicking and they are reinforced around the heel and toe.
One review said: "I got this to wear on the airplane for travelling while pregnant. It's helped massively with leg cramps and now I wear them to work or when I'm expecting to have a long day on my feet."
Pros
- Comfortable
- Helps minimise blisters too
Cons
- Some mentioned they were short
| Available in sizes: | S-M and L-XL |
Best seven pack compression socks
This seven pack of YYW Compression Socks for Men & Women is enough to last you the whole week. The array of designs and patterns means you will look good. They are supportive without feeling too tight and have an extra large cuff to keep them in place so they won’t fall down. Designed to come to just below the knee, they put pressure on the areas of your leg where you need it most.
One review said: "These socks are amazing. They enable me to work long hours standing up or long hours sat at a computer with no leg aching or swelling as I had before. They make me feel more energetic and just feel like a lovely comfortable support. Plus they’re nice and warm for the winter and great patterns and colours. I’m wearing these every day for work and when I’m walking. Def recommend to anyone who has ever had aching legs or swelling. Bit tight when first put them on but so comfortable once on I never want to take them off."
Pros
- 360 degree stretch
- Arch support
- No slip cuff
Cons
- Some said not all the socks are the same length
| Available in sizes: | S-M to L-XL |
- Targeted arch and ankle stabilization
- Machine washable
Best zipper compression socks
These are not as pretty as other socks on our list, but the practical side zip makes them a doddle to put on and take off. The Ailaka Zipper Medical 15-20 mmHg Compression Socks have an open toe, so you’ll have plenty of room to wiggle your tootsies and a reinforced heel. These soft socks place more pressure around the ankle with three different intervals of graduated compression.
One review said: "I found the product very easy to put on . I had twisted my ankle and broke a bone in my leg .After the bone in my leg healed, I still had swelling in my ankle area and leg .The socks were ideal as they are lightweight but still gave support and kept swelling down .I also found that shoes and boots could still be worn. Other types are too thick and certain footwear are out of the question."
Pros
- Open-toe design
- Zip sides
Cons
- Hand wash only
| Available in sizes: | S/M, L/XL, XXL and 3XL |
- Zip sides
- Open toe design
Best compression socks for movement
These Leostep Under the Sea Compression Socks are ergonomically designed to allow a free range of movement with discomfort or chafing. The under-the-sea-themed designs are adorable with penguins, sharks and whales. They come in a seven-pack, making them extremely affordable. Made from a moisture-wicking fabric which draws sweat away from your body, these socks will keep your skin feeling dry.
One review said: "These socks have been go send for me. I am on my feet all day and at the end of the day my legs used to be painful, tired and achy. since wearing these I have no problems. My feet and legs feel great. To all those who complained about them being hard to put on that is how compression garments work, take it from someone who has to wear a compression garment frequently. I highly recommend these socks."
Pros
- Ergonomic design
- Graduated compression
Cons
- Some mentioned that they feel a bit big
| Available in sizes: | S-M and L-XL |
Best compression socks for sizing choice
We love these stylish compression socks. As socks go, we love the floral design of the Physix Gear Compression Socks for Men & Women. The double-stitched fabric promises comfort. These socks are hand wash only. They are made of 70 per cent nylon, 30 per cent elastane.
One review said: "Using for varicose veins after pregnancy. Far more comfortable and better looking than the ones I got in the hospital. I also have the compression sleeves with no feet in them so I can wear more than once/use fresh socks/wear with flipflops. I like to ride my bike so the socks will be useful for that in the long run. Seem to wash well in the machine."
Pros
- Double-stitched fabric
- Comfortable
Cons
- Hand wash only
| Available in sizes: | S-M, L-XL and XXL |
- Multiple sizing choice
- Comfortable
Best designed compression socks
Compression socks don’t have to be boring as this colourful pair with a pink flamingo design proves. Made from a breathable blend of nylon and polyester, the Fenglaoda Flamingo Compression Socks won’t make your legs too hot when you’re wearing them.
One review said**:** "After just having my baby via c section and the hospital giving me blood thinning injections to take for six weeks yet only providing me with the one pair of tragic white stockings. I walked out of there wearing. I was desperately looking for something a bit more me that could pass as a sock. Be a little less Michael Jackson looking when wearing my mum leggings round the house and also do the same job , I'm so glad I found these! They are way more comfortable than the hospital ones but provide the same amount of compression if not more. I have to virtually wrestle them on on a morning and are way more fun! Had many of compliments on them! 10/10 golds stars"
Pros
- Good fit
- Breathable
Cons
- Hand wash only
| Available in sizes: | L-XL |
- Breathable and moisture wicking material
Compression socks for pregnancy: All you need to know
What are compression socks?
Compression socks are long socks that gently squeeze your legs and force the blood to move around the rest of your body. These specialist items improve circulation and prevent medical issues like blood clots.
They can be made from a variety of materials, including nylon, cotton and polyester. Different thicknesses and compression levels are available, depending on what the socks are needed for.
Why should I wear compression socks in pregnancy?
When you’re pregnant, your body produces about 50 per cent more blood and bodily fluid. In the later stages of pregnancy, this can cause your legs and feet to swell, which can be uncomfortable or even painful, especially if you work in a job where you are on your feet all day.
Compression socks will help ease the aches and pains caused by the swelling by improving your circulation and keeping the blood flowing.
Pregnancy hormones also make your blood clot more easily. Your veins dilate, increasing your risk of developing serious conditions like deep vein thrombosis (DVT). Your expanding uterus also puts pressure on your veins. Wearing compression socks will help prevent a blood clot from developing or blood pooling in your feet and lower legs.
Another good reason to try wearing compression socks is that they can help prevent varicose veins from appearing or at least minimise those that do. Varicose veins are swollen and enlarged veins which can develop on your legs. They are often dark blue or purple and lumpy in appearance and are a common problem in pregnancy.
Do I need to wear them after baby has arrived?
Your midwife may recommend you wear compression socks or surgical stockings for up to six weeks after you give birth. You will usually be asked to wear them if you have had a caesarean section, experienced heavy bleeding after delivery or have three or more children.
Samantha Ball is a Product & Lifestyle Writer for Mother&Baby and freelanced for the website for two years before joining the team full time. She's a mum of two and loves browsing for the best products and cute outfits.