Pregnancy: Hand Changes

Topic Overview

During pregnancy, changes in the hands are common.

• Mild swelling of your hands may be caused by the normal buildup of fluid during pregnancy.
• Red, itchy palms and soles of the feet are caused by changing hormone levels. The symptoms go away after delivery. Moisturizers may give some relief.
• An occasional pins-and-needles sensation may occur in the hands for no obvious reason. It is not known why this occurs in pregnant women, but it usually is not a cause for concern. Sometimes changing position helps relieve symptoms.
• Numbness and pain that occur in your thumb, index finger, middle finger, or half of your ring finger may be caused by carpal tunnel syndrome . This condition is more common during pregnancy because the normal buildup of fluid puts pressure on nerves in your wrist. Symptoms usually go away after pregnancy.

Swelling also can be a more serious sign of preeclampsia, a problem related to pregnancy. For more information, see the topic Pregnancy-Related Problems. Swelling of your hands during pregnancy may be more serious when you have other symptoms, such as:

• Swelling or puffiness in your face.
• Weight gain of 2 lb (0.9 kg) or more over a 24-hour period.
• An elevated blood pressure.
• Protein in your urine (a lab test is required to check for protein).