How to Combat Piles

Piles or haemorrhoids are similar to varicose veins, but appear around the anus or rectum. They can occur during various stages of pregnancy. Do not use medications without your doctor's recommendation.

Causes

Some causes of piles or hemorrhoids during pregnancy are:

• Acute cases of constipation which make you apply extra pressure to release your stools.
• Pressure exerted by the expanding uterus on the veins that transfer the blood to the heart. The veins in the pelvic area dilate and worsen piles.
• Remaining in the same place for a long time without any movement may trigger hemorrhoids.

Prevention

Some ways of preventing hemorrhoids or piles during pregnancy are:

• Do not suppress the urge for a bowel movement and avoid constipation.
• Prevent yourself from being prone to constipation which makes you strain more to pass a bowel movement.
• Eat a healthy diet comprising of high fibre foods and lots of liquid.
• Try not to stress yourself when passing your stools.
• You can try to train your body to pass stools at the same time every day. This is called gastro-colic reflex.
• Do not remain in the same position for long periods of time.
• Avoid sleeping on your back resulting in increased pressure to be formed.
• Avoid lifting heavy weights on your own.
• Walking exercises increase blood circulation and helps you pass stools easily.
• Maintain good hygiene and avoid infection.
• Exercise the pelvic muscles by tightening and releasing them a few times in a day.

Treatment

You can treat hemorrhoids using the following tips:

• Treat yourself to a hot water bath or cold water bath. Some women find hot water baths more effective while others find that a cold water bath or an ice pack reduces the swelling.
• Use topical ointments after consulting your doctor.
• Place your feet on a low stool to keep them slightly raised. This makes the blood flow more easily and helps in easier bowel movements.
• Increase the intake of high-fibre foods and liquids.
• Lay down on your side to lessen the pain.
• Change your positions often to ease blood flow in your body.
• Get help in lifting weights to avoid excess intra-abdominal and back pressures on the rectal veins.
• Consult your doctor for other treatments such as acupuncture and aromatherapy. Take care to do them only under the guidance of a professional.