Pregnancy can be a wonderful and exciting experience. However, it can also cause a lot of unpleasant side effects. Morning sickness, varicose veins, and even Diabetes are all known side effects of pregnancy. However, one side effect that many women aren’t prepared for, is piles.
Unfortunately, piles are a common issue during pregnancy. They may be painful or uncomfortable, and they can occur both during and after the pregnancy. So, what causes piles during pregnancy and how can you treat them if they do develop?
What causes piles during pregnancy?
Piles, medically referred to as haemorrhoids, tend to occur during pregnancy because of hormonal changes. The change in hormones causes the veins to relax.
You also have an increased blood volume during pregnancy. This causes the veins to become larger, increasing the risk of piles. Another factor could be the increased pressure on the anus caused by your expanding uterus and baby.
Constipation is a common issue in pregnancy. It is also known to be a contributing factor to piles. So, when you consider these factors, it’s easy to see why piles affect up to 50% of women during pregnancy.
Potential complications and risks
Although piles are usually mild and clear up by themselves, they can lead to potential complications. The most common complication is pain and bleeding. If you notice blood coming from the piles, you should seek further investigation from a doctor.
Generally speaking, however, having piles during your pregnancy won’t harm your baby. Instead, they mostly produce pain and discomfort.
Obviously this is still unpleasant, but at least you know it won’t be harmful for you or baby. If you are concerned, you can talk through your options with a specialist.
How can piles be treated during pregnancy?
During pregnancy, haemorrhoids should be treated conservatively with laxatives and painkillers and more definitive treatment reserved until the baby has been delivered. Often haemorrhoids resolve after delivery. Mr Woodward specialises in the revolutionary Rafaelo technique and you may be suitable for this treatment.
Ideal for those with internal haemorrhoids, this treatment aims to shrink the piles.
This treatment provides fast relief from the symptoms, and it only takes around 15 minutes to complete. Local anaesthetic can be used and only mild bleeding can occur. It works via radiofrequency energy, delivered to the area via a Rafaelo probe.
Very few clinics provide this treatment and it is known to be highly effective.
Book a consultation with Mr Woodward today to see whether the Rafaelo technique could be an effective option for you.
