What’s the best time to treat varicose veins: in the winter or summer? Before or after pregnancy? When can you plan to go on a trip? See how these factors can influence your recovery, complications, vein condition, and more.

Treat your veins in colder months

While you can still treat varicose veins in the summer, the colder weather in winter, late autumn, and early spring makes recovery more comfortable.

It will be easier to wear your compression stockings (if your specialist advised them).
Cold weather can also lessen some post-treatment side effects, like swelling and aches.
You’ll also find it much easier to keep the treated area out of the sun.

Additionally, treating your legs before summer will let you avoid putting them through worsening discomfort associated with heat dilation.

Don’t plan long-haul flights after vein treatment

We recommend avoiding flights of 5 hours or more for 2-3 weeks after your procedure. The dehydrating air in an aeroplane, combined with a lack of movement, can cause discomfort in the treatment site and even complicate recovery.

Hence, if you’ve planned a holiday or have an upcoming business trip, it’s best to book your treatment 3 weeks before or in the days after.

You should also keep in mind that you may need to come in for a follow-up treatment (for example, sclerotherapy after laser ablation to clear up any smaller varicose vein branches). You will also need to come in for a check-up around 4-6 weeks after your treatment so we can assess your healing progress.

Treat varicose veins before, after, or in between pregnancies

Pregnancy often causes varicose veins and may worsen existing ones. Ideally, you should treat existing varicose veins before you start trying for a baby, as they can result in leg pain, restlessness, and swelling. They also increase the risk of DVT.

Specialists often advise against treating varicose veins during pregnancy or breastfeeding, as it can cause complications.

The good news is that if your varicose veins developed during your pregnancy, they may just disappear on their own within 6 months. During pregnancy, your blood volume and progesterone levels increase to supply blood flow to the baby. Once those levels return to normal, your veins may return to normal, too. If they don’t, however, you should seek specialist advice – especially if you’re planning on another child.

Get assessed when they’re bothering you

Last but not least, you should always get varicose veins assessed when they’re causing pain, swelling, itching, and restless nights. Even if your specialist advises delaying treatment until after a trip or having your baby, they can recommend a conservative management plan tailored to your condition and circumstances. The plan may involve:

Wearing compression stockings
Doing more mild to moderate intensity exercise
Avoiding certain strenuous activities
Staying hydrated