A common pregnancy discomfort are hemorrhoids. When blood flow increases and your growing uterus puts pressure on your rectum and perineum, you may experience hemorrhoids. Hemorrhoids are basically enlarged (varicose) veins in the rectal area that can become worse late in pregnancy and may even bleed slightly. Sometimes they are caused by straining because of constipation. Try to avoid constipation by the suggestions above, to prevent hemorrhoids. Warm sitz baths may bring some relief, as well as ice packs (or witch hazel pads, cooled in the refrigerator) if they become very uncomfortable.
