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 your anus.
Piles may also bleed a little, and they can make going to the toilet uncomfortable or painful. They occur in pregnancy because certain hormones make your veins relax. Piles usually go within weeks after the birth. Find out more about the symptoms of piles.
How to ease piles
- eat plenty of food that is high in fibre, like wholemeal bread, fruit and vegetables, and drink plenty of water - this will prevent constipation, which can make piles worse (find out more about healthy eating in pregnancy)
- avoid standing for long periods
- take regular exercise to improve your circulation
- you may find it helpful to use a cloth wrung out in iced water to ease the pain - hold it gently against the piles
- 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 to help ease the pain. Find out more about preventing piles.
