Hemorrhoids are swollen veins in the lower rectum and anus. They can make it uncomfortable to have a bowel movement, or even to sit. The hormones (what else?) of pregnancy cause the walls of these, and other, veins to relax making all kinds of varicosities more common.  To complicate things, the pressure of your growing uterus puts pressure on these veins, too, making matters worse. You avoid hemorrhoids by avoiding constipation and making sure you do not have to strain to have a bowel movement. Eating fiber rich foods such as fruits and vegetables, beans, whole grains will help keep you regular. Regular doses of liquid chlorophyll can also help keep things moving. If you already have hemorrhoids you may find comfort in a sitz bath, witch hazel compresses, ice, or analgesic ointments such as Preparation H.