As well as being a great all-rounder for cuts, grazes and scrapes, who knew that the humble tube of Germolene could also work miracles on piles too? Our expert writers and journalists spend hours researching the very best quality products for our Swears By articles.

This article is not intended as a countdown of the ‘top nine’ best products, but rather a list of recommendations so you can be safe in the knowledge that you are getting honest and reliable advice on choosing an appropriate over-the-counter haemorrhoid remedy to meet your needs. Why you should trust us Many a Mumsnetter claims that while pregnancy may have triggered their haemorrhoids, the problem has become recurrent months - sometimes even years - after they've had their last baby. Hemoproct claims to help prevent future haemorrhoid outbreaks so could well be worth a try if this is the situation you find yourself in. Treatment type: Wipes | Active ingredients: Witch Hazel | Daily dose: Use before applying piles treatment and after each bowel movement | Safe for pregnancy?: Yes What we love You have symptoms of haemorrhoids, and they are getting worse, or there is no improvement after a week of home treatment Your hemorrhoids might only produce mild discomfort. In this case, your health care provider may suggest creams, ointments, suppositories or pads that you can buy without a prescription. These products contain ingredients such as witch hazel, or hydrocortisone and lidocaine, which can temporarily relieve pain and itching.

Use topical treatments. Apply a hemorrhoid cream or suppository containing hydrocortisone that you can buy without a prescription. You also can use pads containing witch hazel or a numbing medicine. Treatment type: Gel | Active ingredients: 2QR-complex from Aloe Vera | Daily dose: At least twice a day, and after bowel movement | Safe for pregnancy?: Not specified What we love Preparation H Clear Gel offers an instant cooling effect on dry, itchy skin around the anus. The formula is non-greasy and easy to apply. The gel contains witch hazel, which is scientifically proven to hydrate and moisturise dry and itchy skin. Care Haemorrhoid Relief Ointment

A note of caution though: Witch Hazel has been known to cause red and itchy skin, so those with allergies should consult their GP before applying. Even if you aren’t prone to allergies and haven’t used Witch Hazel before, try a test patch before applying to your haemorrhoid, otherwise you could end up making the problem worse.Hydrocortisone is a steroid that can thin your skin when used for more than a week. Ask your health care provider how long you should use it. External hemorrhoid thrombectomy Soak regularly in a warm bath or sitz bath. Soak your anal area in plain warm water for 10 to 15 minutes two or three times a day. A sitz bath fits over the toilet. Application of treatment will often differ depending on whether you have internal or external piles. When using the Anusol Cream and the Germoloid Cream, you should simply apply the cream to the affected area if you have external piles. If you have internal piles, you will need to insert the nozzle into your anus and squeeze gently. Preventing Haemorrhoids Most people have some pain after the procedure, which medicines can relieve. Soaking in a warm bath also might help. I use a plain cotton facial cleansing pad and douse it in the Witch Hazel, then pop it by the painful area and leave it there (bum cheeks keep it in place!). Nothing has been anywhere near this effective for me.” (Tried and tested by Mumsnet user SilentPanic)