It's common to develop varicose veins on your legs during pregnancy, caused by the weight of the baby and dilated blood vessels.
But it's worse for those women who develop swollen veins around their rectums (piles) or vagina (vulval varicosities).
You can help protect your legs by not standing for long periods, and wearing support stockings. Fortunately, varicose veins often improve after birth.
Piles are best prevented by avoiding constipation and not standing for long periods.
Progesterone can make your bowel sluggish which can lead to constipation. Stay regular by doing some gentle exercise, drinking plenty of water and eating fibre-rich foods such as wholemeal bread and lots of fruit and veg. Prune juice is also effective.
'Don't cross your legs when you sit, and put your feet up when you can,' says midwife Claire Friars from baby charity Tommy's. 'There are creams that can ease the discomfort, so speak to your GP.'
Piles should ease and disppear within six to eight weeks of the birth.
If you're suffering from vulval varicosities, try to avoid constipation or straining when you go the loo.
'If they're sore, sitting on a pillow may help,' advises Claire. 'And tell your midwife that you have them, although they're unlikely to cause a problem at the birth.'
Vulval varicosities are likely to completely disappear once you have given birth.
