There are many bodily changes that take place during pregnancy but there is one that is especially troublesome to most: hemorrhoids.

What causes hemorrhoids?

Constipation during pregnancy can lead to pushing and pushing to varicose veins of the rectum. Increased blood volume makes hemorrhoids an even easy problem to create. Hormones slow down the digestive process during pregnancy and allow food to spend more time in the absorption phase. While this is healthy, the longer food spends in the intestine, the more water is pulled from waste resulting in constipation during pregnancy.

How can you alleviate hemorrhoids during pregnancy?

  • Drink plenty of water and eat foods rich in fiber.
  • Never push when trying to pass a bowel movement.
  • Gain just the right amount of weight to reduce pressure on the pelvic area.
  • Do not sit or stand for long periods of time.
  • Ice packs may ease the itch and pain of hemorrhoids.

Read about other body changes: