Is there a way to avoid these ugly leg veins during pregnancy?

Chronic varicose veins cause problems ranging from solely cosmetic to discomfort and more severe problems such as blood clots. Photo: TNS

Why do pregnant women tend to get varicose veins in the legs, and what can they do to prevent or minimise them?

In general, three factors greatly contribute to the formation of varicose veins in pregnant women, says Dr Luis Navarro, a surgeon, phlebologist and director of The Vein Treatment Center in New York, United States.