Heamorrhoids (Piles) during pregnancy is a very common problem. This unpleasant side-effect affects all racial groups in Singapore. It is believed that upto 50 per cent of all pregnant women suffer from haemorrhoids during pregnancy or postnatally.
Heamorrhoids are caused by the enlarged uterus which places intense pressure on the veins around the rectal area. Thus these veins (at the opening of your rectum) become dilated and swollen. (They look like varicose veins)
You can treat heamorrhoids by using your finger to push the veins back into the rectum and apply a cold compress in order to reduce the swelling. Do not rely on over-the-counter medications or other self-treatments. See your doctor first so that your symptoms can be properly evaluated and effective treatment prescribed. He may prescribe you with supositories. If you find wiping after going to the toilet to be painful, try some gentle babywipes.
You can try to prevent heamorrhoids by not doing any heavy duty lifting and reduce your chances of getting constipation by eating more fibre and fluids.