Piles in Pregnancy

While electrotherapy isn’t a suitable treatment for piles during pregnancy, there are effective ways to help alleviate the symptoms you’ll be having. Things like a good diet, plenty of exercise and a cold compress can go a long way to making you feel better. We always recommend speaking to your local pharmacist, since there are many treatments available over the counter. Failing that, speak to your GP if your symptoms are particularly painful.

• Avoid straining. Straining during a bowel movement puts more pressure on your rectal area. To give yourself time to heal, be mindful not to push, strain, or bear down when sitting on the toilet. Try to let gravity do most of the work.
• Add fiber to your diet. Dietary fiber helps to soften your stool while also giving it more bulk. A high-fiber diet can help treat and prevent constipation, which makes haemorrhoids worse. High-fiber foods include fruits, vegetables, and whole grains.
• Drink plenty of water. Staying hydrated also helps to prevent constipation.
• Soak the area. Soothe pain and irritation by soaking the area in warm bathwater for 10 to 15 minutes, two to three times per day. You can use your bathtub or a sitz bath.
• Keep the area clean. Keeping your anal area clean will help to prevent any additional irritation that might get in the way of the healing process. Rinsing the area with warm water should be enough.
• Use moistened wipes. Moistened wipes are gentler than dry toilet paper. Opt for fragrance-free wipes to avoid any irritation.
• Apply a cold pack. Use a clean ice pack or cold compress to reduce painful swelling. Just make sure to wrap it in a towel or cloth before placing it directly on your skin.