During pregnancy, a woman’s body goes through numerous changes, both internally and externally. As the baby grows, the body adapts to accommodate the changes, and this includes changes in the feet and nails.

Many expectant mothers continue to wear high heels despite the potential negative effects on their nails. In this article, we will explore the various ways in which wearing high heels during pregnancy can impact the health of nails and provide some tips on how to alleviate these negative effects.

1. Increased Risk of Ingrown Toenails

Wearing high heels for prolonged periods can increase the risk of developing ingrown toenails. High heels force the toes into a cramped position, leading to excessive pressure on the nails.

This pressure can cause the nails to grow into the surrounding skin, resulting in pain, inflammation, and even infection. Pregnant women are already susceptible to various foot problems due to the weight gain and hormonal changes, and wearing high heels exacerbates this risk.

2. Nail Brittleness and Breakage

High heels often have narrow and pointy toe boxes that compress the toes and nails, leading to decreased blood circulation. Reduced blood flow to the nails can make them brittle and prone to breakage.

Additionally, the repetitive impact on the feet while walking in high heels can further weaken the already fragile nails. As pregnant women experience hormonal changes that can affect nail health, wearing high heels can exacerbate this issue and increase the likelihood of nail breakage.

3. Fungal Infections

A warm and moist environment is an ideal breeding ground for fungal infections, and high heels contribute to the creation of such an environment. Sweating is a common occurrence during pregnancy, especially in the feet.

When high heels are worn, the feet are enclosed in tight shoes, increasing moisture accumulation and trapping heat. This can lead to the development of fungal infections like athlete’s foot or toenail fungus. Fungal infections can be challenging to treat during pregnancy and may require specialized care to avoid harming the developing fetus.

4. Nail Discoloration

Wearing high heels can lead to discoloration of the nails. As mentioned earlier, high heels restrict blood circulation to the toes. The decreased blood flow can cause the nails to appear pale, yellowish, or even bluish.

Discoloration of the nails during pregnancy may also be an indication of underlying health issues, so it is crucial to consult a healthcare professional if this occurs.

5. Nail Lifting

The pressure exerted on the nails by high heels, combined with the increase in body weight during pregnancy, can cause the nails to lift. Nail lifting, also known as onycholysis, is a condition where the nail separates from the nail bed.

This separation can create a gap where dirt, bacteria, and fungi can accumulate, leading to further nail problems. Pregnant women are already at a higher risk of experiencing nail lifting due to hormonal changes, and wearing high heels compounds this risk.

6. Exacerbation of Varicose Veins

Varicose veins are swollen and enlarged veins that commonly occur during pregnancy. Wearing high heels puts additional strain on the legs, further aggravating the condition.

High heels can impede blood flow and cause blood pooling in the legs, intensifying the appearance and discomfort of varicose veins. It is advisable for pregnant women to wear comfortable and supportive footwear to minimize the risk of varicose vein complications.

7. Increased Risk of Trips and Falls

Pregnancy affects a woman’s center of gravity, making her more prone to tripping and falling. Wearing high heels significantly heightens this risk.

The elevated position and narrow base of high heels make maintaining balance more challenging, especially as the pregnancy progresses. Falls can result in serious injuries not only to the expectant mother but also to the developing baby. It is essential to prioritize safety and opt for stable and comfortable shoes during pregnancy.

8. Restricted Toe Movement

High heels limit the natural movement of the toes, cramping them into an unnatural and restrictive position. This restriction can lead to muscle imbalances and deformities such as hammertoes or bunions.

Pregnant women already experience changes in joint laxity and alignment due to hormonal influences, so wearing high heels further exacerbates these issues and can cause long-term foot problems.

9. Increased Foot Swelling

Swelling of the feet, known as edema, is a common occurrence during pregnancy due to increased blood volume and reduced circulation.

Wearing high heels can exacerbate foot swelling as they restrict blood flow and hinder normal fluid drainage from the feet. Prolonged wearing of high heels can lead to discomfort, pain, and further complications related to edema. Opting for supportive footwear that allows for proper circulation is essential to minimize foot swelling during pregnancy.

10. Emotional Impact

The negative effects of wearing high heels during pregnancy are not only physical but can also have emotional repercussions. Many women find comfort, confidence, and a sense of identity in wearing stylish high heels.

Having to give up these shoes during pregnancy can lead to feelings of self-consciousness and low self-esteem. It is important for expectant mothers to prioritize their own and their baby’s health over fashion choices and seek alternative ways to boost their confidence during this special time.