Piles, also known as haemorrhoids, are swollen veins around the anus (back passage) which may itch, ache or feel sore. You can usually feel the lumpiness of the piles around the anus.
Piles may also bleed a little, and they can make going to the toilet uncomfortable or painful. They occur in pregnancy because the veins relax under the influence of pregnancy hormones. Piles usually go shortly after delivery.
If you suffer from piles:
- Eat plenty of food that is high in fibre, like wholemeal bread, fruit and vegetables, and you should drink plenty of water. This will prevent constipation, which can make piles worse.
- Avoid standing for long periods.
- Take regular exercise to improve your circulation.
- Sleep with the foot of the bed slightly raised.
- Use an ice pack to ease discomfort. Hold it gently against the piles (but not directly against the skin), or use a cloth rinsed in iced water and wrung out.
- If the piles stick out, push them gently back inside using a lubricating jelly.
- Ask your doctor, midwife or pharmacist if they can suggest a suitable ointment.
- Consider giving birth in a position where the pressure on your back passage is reduced (kneeling, for example).
