Hemorrhoids

Hemorrhoids can be an uncomfortable problem during pregnancy. Hemorrhoids are dilated blood vessels (varicose veins) of the rectum that can itch, bleed and hurt. They appear around the area of the anus or inside the anus.

Older women are especially vulnerable to developing hemorrhoids; they may have some dilated blood vessels around the rectum even before pregnancy.

Some women have the problem only during pregnancy. In pregnancy, your body tissue changes, with some loss of elasticity. Pressure from your enlarging uterus blocks blood flow in the pelvic area. These conditions encourage hemorrhoid formation.