SWISS Thermoregulating Compression Stocking: Class 1

During pregnancy your body will undergo multiple necessary and substantial changes with every trimester often resulting in various unwanted symptoms. Some changes include;

• Increased total blood volume: Needed to accommodate the demands of a growing baby.  
• Hormonal changes: Result in blood to clot faster and veins to dilate increasing the risk of varicose veins and DVT’s during pregnancy and increasingly in the 6 weeks postpartum.
• Increase in size of uterus: Applies direct pressure on your veins reducing blood flow. 
• Venous insufficiency: Disfunction of the venous system can result in leg discomfort, heavy and tired legs, ankle oedema and varicose veins. 

Compression stockings (TEDS) are capable of mechanically counteracting the raised internal pressure that occurs during pregnancy with controlled external pressure. By wearing an appropriate level compression stocking during your pregnancy can significantly reduce the volume of blood in the feet and leg veins driving it back to the heart and major organs, preventing blood pooling in the veins causing varicose veins. 

• Prevent spider veins and varicose veins 
• Reduces blood accumulation in veins of legs, improving blood supply to organs. 
• Reduces pain and discomfort
• Positive effects on general circulation 
• Your legs will feel lighter, more energised, and less swollen.

Level 1 (18mm-21mmhg)

• Mildly painful, heavy and tired legs
• Support and comfort when standing or sitting for long periods
• Support for general health and energy
• For improved circulation, especially in the legs
• Additional support on active days when you work hard or take a trip
• These products may help during pregnancy to prevent varicose veins and reticular veins

Level 2 (23mm-32mmhg)

• For varicose veins with mild tendency to oedema
• For varicose veins during pregnancy
• After a varicose vein treatment 
• For the treatment of orthostatic/postural hypotension, a form of low blood pressure
• For deep vein thrombosis
• For post-thrombotic syndrome
• For healed leg ulcers 

Using a tape measure follow the sizing guide below for A-D size. It is recommended to leave  a 2 cm gap between the base of your knee and the top of the stocking. 

SIZING CHART

• Apply your stockings first thing in the morning before your legs begin to swell.
• Wear them during the day and every day.
• If not otherwise instructed: Do not wear stockings during the night, always take them off before bed. 
• Remove jewellery and avoid sharp fingernails and toenails. 
• Do not cut or pull any loose threads that may appear inside the stockings.
• Knee high stockings should come up 2cm below the knee bend.
• Moisturiser should ideally be avoided prior to donning. 
• If you have difficulty applying your stockings consider purchasing a stocking aid, such as: Sim-slide, Magnide, Doff’N’donner or SIMON 

• Wash the garments regularly by hand or in a laundry bag on a gentle cycle. The compressions of the stockings is reduced slightly during wear and the washing and drying process restores it. 
• Do not use fabric softener as it adversely effects the yarns and the fibres.
• To dry, lay the garments in a towel. 
• Do not machine/tumble dry.
• Do not iron.

It is recommended to consult with your health care provider for advice on your individual compression level needs.