Madeleine Murray, Sports Podiatrist, explains the foot and ankle changes that can occur during pregnancy and why they do not always stop after a pregnancy loss. She covers what women might notice, why it happens, and practical steps to manage swelling, arch pain, and fatigue. She also addresses something often overlooked, that feet affect the whole body, and discomfort in this area deserves attention.
Heidi shares her personal experience of foot and ankle changes after pregnancy loss. She describes the swelling, tiredness, and loss of balance she noticed, and how she initially dismissed it as unimportant compared to everything else she was going through. Her account is a reminder that physical changes after pregnancy loss affect the whole body, including the parts we rarely think to mention.
What might still be going on, and why it matters
During pregnancy, your feet and ankles carry more than just physical weight. Hormones shift, your balance changes, and tissues that usually hold everything in place start to soften. These changes are known to affect how your feet move and feel. But what happens after a pregnancy loss is rarely talked about and not well studied.
At WHEN, we want to fill that gap with honest, useful information. There’s little direct research on foot and ankle changes after pregnancy loss, but here’s what we do know based on pregnancy studies, clinical experience, and what women often report.
These changes are often linked to hormones called relaxin and progesterone, which loosens joints and ligaments during pregnancy. That effect doesn’t stop straight away after a pregnancy loss. It can take time for everything to return to its usual alignment, especially if the pregnancy was further along.
Swelling can also stick around for a while. It may come and go during the day or feel worse at night. For some women, swelling makes it hard to wear enclosed shoes, which in turn can affect stability and comfort when walking.
If your feet and ankles still don’t feel right, you’re not imagining it. You might find these things helpful while your body is recalibrating:
If your discomfort is stopping you from moving freely, or if pain becomes sharp, ongoing or one-sided, it’s worth checking in with your GP or a podiatrist.
Foot and ankle pain can affect how you move, how you rest, and how your whole body feels. Looking after your feet might seem small, but it can ease tension elsewhere and help your body feel more supported while everything is settling.
Developed by the WHEN Clinical Team
Clinically reviewed by the WHEN Clinical Governance Committee
Last reviewed: 22/06/2026
With clinical input from Dr Shan Bergin, Discipline Lead and Director of Clinical Education, Podiatry, La Trobe University.
With clinical input from Associate Professor Daniel Bonanno, Podiatry, La Trobe University. Specialist in musculoskeletal disorders of the foot and ankle in physically active populations.
With clinical input from Madeleine Murray, Sports Podiatrist, MSc Podiatric Surgery, BSc (Hons) Podiatry. Specialist in running injuries and load management.
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Need Immediate Help?
If you or someone you know is struggling during the postnatal period, it’s crucial to remember that immediate help is available. Here are steps and resources you can turn to:
In Urgent Situations:
Support Services:
Remember, you are not alone, and reaching out for help is a step toward healing. Your well-being is important, and support is just a phone call away.