In my hospital they have a post-natal physio class and one of the things they cover is piles. There is a recomended position to use when you go to the loo to reduce the pressure. My memory is a tiny bit hazy but as far as I recall it goes something like this.....
Get something to put your feet on that will raise your knees to above the level of your hips (ie yellow pages) - the best position is squatting but its a bit difficult on western style loos.
Keep your back straight and lean forward with your hands resting on your knees.
Make your mouth into an O shape and exhale lighty then push down with your stomach muscles.

Also don't use those O ring coushins because they make blood pool in the area so its more uncomfy instead roll op two towels and place one under each buttock so that your weight isn't directly on the problem area.

I use those icy poles that you buy in the big packs at the supermarket for ice packs - I use the green and eat the other colours. Sometimes I'm tempted to offer MIL a recycled green one.

I got a killer 'roid after squeezing Yasin out and since swapping to Elavit its back so I'm not looking forward to the post-birth experience.