Varicose veins are more than just a cosmetic concern—they’re a real health issue, especially for women. Those bulging, twisted veins you often see on legs and feet indicate that something’s not working quite right in your circulatory system. And for millions of women, they’re a daily discomfort that can worsen over time.
Let’s break down what causes varicose veins, why women are more affected, and what you can do to prevent or treat them.
What Are Varicose Veins?
Varicose veins happen when the valves inside your veins stop working properly. These valves usually keep blood flowing in one direction—toward your heart. But when they weaken, blood pools in the veins, causing them to swell, twist, and push up against the skin.
They often appear blue or dark purple and feel achy, heavy, or itchy. While some people experience only mild symptoms, others may develop swelling, skin changes, or even painful ulcers over time.
Why Are Women More Prone?
Here’s the truth: being a woman puts you at higher risk for varicose veins. Why? Hormones.
Estrogen and progesterone—the primary female hormones—affect how elastic your blood vessels are. Hormonal changes during menstruation, pregnancy, or menopause can weaken vein walls and valves.
Pregnancy, in particular, increases your risk. More blood volume and pressure on the pelvic veins, plus hormone-driven changes in blood vessels, all create the perfect storm for varicose veins to form. Though they often improve after giving birth, they tend to get worse with each pregnancy.
Other risk factors include:
- Family history of varicose veins
- Being overweight
- Long hours standing or sitting (hello, retail and nursing jobs!)
- Aging
It’s Not Just Cosmetic
Sure, varicose veins can affect how your legs look—but they can also signal more serious health problems. Left untreated, they can lead to chronic venous insufficiency, a condition where blood pools in the legs and causes pain, swelling, and skin issues.
You might also develop superficial thrombophlebitis—a type of clot in a surface vein—or even deep vein thrombosis (DVT) in more serious cases.
That’s why it’s important not to ignore the symptoms or assume they’re “just a part of getting older.”
Prevention Tips for Healthier Veins
Good news: there’s plenty you can do to protect your vein health. Here are some practical tips:
- Get moving – Walking and light exercise help improve circulation.
- Watch your weight – Less pressure on your legs means less risk.
- Elevate your legs, especially after long periods of standing or sitting.
- Wear compression stockings – These apply gentle pressure to help your veins work more efficiently.
- Eat a vein-friendly diet – High fiber (to prevent constipation) and low salt (to reduce swelling).
And skip the tight clothing and high heels when you can—both can make things worse by restricting blood flow.
Treatment Options That Work
If lifestyle changes aren’t enough, you don’t have to suffer. Modern treatments are safe, effective, and often done in a doctor’s office with minimal downtime.
Some options include:
- Sclerotherapy – A solution is injected into the vein to close it off.
- Laser therapy – Light energy fades or seals smaller veins.
- Endovenous ablation – Uses heat to close off larger veins via a small catheter.
- Surgical removal – For more severe cases, a procedure may be done to remove or tie off the affected vein.
Specialists like NYC Vein Docs can help you decide which option is right for you based on your symptoms and overall health.
The Bottom Line
Varicose veins are a common but often overlooked issue in women’s health. While they may start as a cosmetic concern, they can progress to serious discomfort or health complications if left untreated. By staying active, maintaining a healthy weight, and seeking treatment when needed, you can take control of your vein health and feel better from the inside out.