Edema and varicose veins in the lower extremities sometimes develop in the third trimester of a pregnancy due to
A) decreased cardiac output.
B) elevated blood pressure.
C) compression of abdominal blood vessels.
D) elevated hematocrit.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

During the third trimester of pregnancy, the growing uterus can compress abdominal blood vessels, particularly the inferior vena cava, leading to increased venous pressure in the lower extremities, which can cause edema and varicose veins.

Edema and Varicose Veins in the Lower Extremities Sometimes Develop