Home Care

• Ice or cold compresses can help reduce swelling and pain from hemorrhoids during pregnancy. According to the March of Dimes, applying an ice pack to the rectal area for 10 minutes at a time up to four times a day is safe for pregnant women. Purchase a sitz bath at your local drug store. A sitz bath is a small pan that fits over the toilet seat. Soak your rectal area in warm water in the sitz bath for 10 to 20 minutes at a time several times a day to soothe itching and pain. Alternate cold and warm treatments by following ice pack application with a warm sitz bath.
  
  Keep your anal area clean by carefully wiping with unscented, white toilet paper after each bowel movement. Try moistening the toilet paper for less irritation or purchase pre-moistened, unscented wipes. Be sure to dry your rectal area thoroughly after a bath or shower as moisture can irritate hemorrhoids and make them worse.
  
  Talk with your doctor before using any medicated hemorrhoid products and use any over-the-counter products approved by your health-care provider exactly as directed. Most hemorrhoid products are meant for short-term use and extended use can increase inflammation.
  
  

Prevention

• You can help prevent hemorrhoids during pregnancy by following a few simple guidelines. If you have already developed hemorrhoids during your pregnancy, making a few lifestyle changes may decrease your risk of recurring hemorrhoids. Drink plenty of liquids to make stool easier to pass. The March of Dimes recommends at least eight to 10 glasses of water a day and one or two glasses of fruit juice per day.
  
  High-fiber foods such as raw fruits and vegetables can help keep your bowels regular and decrease your risk of hemorrhoids. Check with your doctor about safe exercise levels during your pregnancy. Thirty minutes of light aerobic exercise most days can help keep your digestive system working properly and help prevent excess weight gain, which puts extra pressure on your abdomen. Always use the bathroom as soon as you feel the urge to go to make passing stool easier.