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How To Treat Pregnancy Hemerrhoids & Constipation

Help! I'm 6 months' pregnant and I have hemorrhoids that are driving me crazy! And, on top of it, I'm always constipated. What do I do?!
- Cyndy

Hemorrhoids - which are actually varicose veins in the anus or rectum - are a common pregnancy complaint. They may bleed, itch, or sting, especially during or after a bowel movement. As the blood volume increases and the uterus presses against the pelvis, the veins in your anus or rectum may enlarge into grape-like clusters.

Help! I'm 6 months' pregnant and I have hemorrhoids that are driving me crazy! And, on top of it, I'm always constipated. What do I do?!
- Cyndy

Hemorrhoids - which are actually varicose veins in the anus or rectum - are a common pregnancy complaint. They may bleed, itch, or sting, especially during or after a bowel movement. As the blood volume increases and the uterus presses against the pelvis, the veins in your anus or rectum may enlarge into grape-like clusters.

Another common complaint during pregnancy is constipation. It may be hard to have a bowel movement because hormones slow the rate of food passing through the gastrointestinal tract and the uterus pushes against the large intestine. Constipation contributes to hemorrhoids because straining to have a bowel movement may enlarge the veins of the rectum.
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