Piles (haemorrhoids) are common in pregnancy. Piles usually develop in second/third trimester due to hormonal effect and increasing pressure of your baby in the pelvis. Iron supplements may also worsen constipation and piles. Avoiding constipation is key to prevent this troublesome condition

1. Eat high-fibre foods. Try fibre-rich food such as pears (do eat the skin too), avocados, berries, broccoli, oatmeal, brown rice, quinoa, beans, lentils, green peas, nuts and seeds.

2. Drink plenty of fluids with the fibres. Dehydration is a common cause of constipation which worsen the piles.

3. Use the toilet only when you feel the urge. Avoid visiting the toilet habitually and try only when you have the sensation. “Holding it in” leads to constipation.

4. Avoid sitting for too long. When at work, make sure to get up and walk around for a few minutes every hour. At home, try to rest on your side when reading or watching TV, to relieve downward pressure on your rectal veins.

5. A stool softener may help. This can help if other methods fail to ease your constipation. Routine using of laxatives, however, is not recommended during pregnancy. Do seek your doctor’s advice. You can try Fybogel first which contains natural fibre and is safe for baby.

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