[Venous blood flow in the lower limbs during pregnancy]

From the standpoint of vascular mechanics, the distribution of total circulating blood volume, increased during pregnancy occurs to the advantage of the uterine circulation and the detriment of the venous circulation of the lower limbs. Varicose veins, often found in the legs, are due to compression by the pregnant uterus and changes in hormonal secretions. Many clinical findings still remain unexplained.