[Effect of parity on the venous system of the leg]

Pregnancy is known to be an important aetiological factor of varicose veins. How much this can be attributed to gestation is still controversially discussed. This problem was investigated using three non-invasive methods--Ultrasonography, Venous-Occlusion Plethysmography (VOP) and Light-Reflexion-Rheography (LPR). We found no significant differences between the group of primipara and multipara with relation to the venous morphology and the venous function in the legs. Only the distensibility of the venous wall of the multipara group was slightly increased in comparison to the group of the primipara. These results were found by VOP and LRR simultaneously. Varicosis is therefore caused mainly by the first pregnancy, whereas the subsequent pregnancies do not show remarkable changes of the status quo. Concerning the sensitivity of the methods mentioned above, ultrasonography alone can give easy and quick information. In the case of pathological findings, the indication for more complex investigations (VOP and LRR) can be established.