How to cope with haemorrhoids during pregnancy

Abstract

Haemorrhoids, also known as piles, occur in about one third of adults in the UK and are particularly prevalent in women during pregnancy (Singh, 1997). They occur when the haemorrhoidal veins around the anus and lower rectum become swollen in a similar fashion to varicose veins in the legs. Haemorrhoids are purple in colour and when outside the anus may resemble a bunch of grapes. The main symptoms are feelings of irritation and soreness around the anus, and pain and/or bleeding during defecation.