How can compression help during pregnancy? While pregnant, women can experience a number of side effects such as swollen legs, achy/tired legs, varicose veins, Deep Vein Thrombosis and other venous insufficiencies. Most of these are due to an increase in blood volume at full-term and the expanding uterus putting pressure on blood vessels in the pelvic area. Clinical studies have shown positive effects with compression socks for pregnancy, however graduated compression stockings are the most effective therapy to use during pregnancy and postpartum for these leg conditions. It battles the restricted blood flow to help alleviate the swollen, tired legs and feet, and aids in reducing the incidence of varicose veins, DVT and mild edema. It is also highly recommended for women to wear them post pregnancy until symptoms have subsided.