Are Your Shoes Fit for Pregnancy?

It's essential to treat your feet right during pregnancy. That means choosing shoes that are roomy and comfortable, and that offer adequate support. According to the American College of Foot and Ankle Surgeons, during pregnancy your feet may grow a half to a full size permanently. To ease pregnancy-related foot discomfort, the ACFAS recommends wearing an arch support to help support the extra weight your feet will be carrying, wearing athletic shoes with a roomy toe box, and wearing support stockings to minimize foot and ankle swelling.

Here are questions to ask yourself while shoe shopping:

Not just for cool weather, you can now find great boot styles in all materials and for all temperatures. Look for short heels or flat soles. Our favorite? Soft slouch styles!

Let your toes get a breath of fresh air with a cute pair of flat-soled sandals. You can dress them up or throw them on with a pair of shorts and still look cool and chic.

A simple loafer with a low, stacked heel offers much better support for your weight than a low-heeled pump.

You might think flat shoes are better than heels, but some ballet flats and moccasins don't offer adequate ankle support. Walk around the store -- if your foot lifts out of it, there's not enough support.

These shock absorbers are easier on your knees and back. One great trend for pregnant women is "mock sneaks", which are athletic-style, slip-on, rubber-soled shoes in leather and suede.

This may seem pretty basic, but as your feet swell, laces will be harder (and more uncomfortable) to tie.

As beautiful as those four- inch Steve Madden heels might be, learn to say no to shoes that are bound to hurt your feet. You'll never regret choosing comfort over fashion during pregnancy -- and your back and hips will thank you!

Get more great maternity shopping tips from the following helpful articles: