How To Get Relief From Hemorrhoids During Pregnancy

How Do You Treat Hemorrhoids During Pregnancy

HEMORRHOIDS AND PREGNANCY | HEMORRHOIDS TREATMENT & PREVENTION | MANAGE HEMORRHOIDS DURING PREGNANCY

Education is often the best treatment for hemorrhoids until they go away on their own. They usually go away after your baby arrives.

Relieve your constipation

Having regular bowel movements can ease the strain on your hemorrhoids. The less youre straining on the toilet, the less stress youre putting on these veins. Heres how you do it:

Eat 25 to 30 grams of fiber each day.
Drink eight to 12 cups of water a day.
Take a laxative but only one that your provider has approved.

Try home remedies

Try some home remedies for hemorrhoids to relieve any discomfort youre feeling.

Apply pure aloe or coconut oil to ease minor pain or discomfort.
Apply witch hazel to your hemorrhoids to reduce itching and pain.
Apply either wet or dry baking soda to your hemorrhoids to ease itching.

Take the pressure off your hemorrhoids

Theres nothing you can do about the added pressure from the fetus thats putting strain on your body, but you can change your habits so that youre reducing the strain that you can control. Here are some tips:

Dont remain standing or sitting for too long. Instead, lay on your side to take pressure off your pelvic area and bowel.
When you do sit, use a donut pillow.
Dont strain or linger too long on the toilet when youre having trouble pooping. Instead, focus on relieving your constipation.

If at-home care isnt working, your healthcare provider may recommend a procedure to remove your hemorrhoids thats safe for you and your baby.

Is It Ok To Have Hemorrhoids While Pregnant

Hemorrhoids During Pregnancy Reviewed by Dan Brennan, MD on August 09, 2022 Hemorrhoids are swollen veins in your rectum, the opening in your bottom. They can cause itching, burning, pain, or bleeding. Its common to get them during pregnancy, especially in the third trimester.

You should call your doctor if yours bleed or hurt a lot.
Youre more likely to get hemorrhoids if youre constipated, because straining to have a bowel movement swells your veins.
Your growing baby also puts pressure on the large veins behind your uterus.
Hemorrhoids usually go away soon after your baby is born.

There are a few ways to ease the pain, itching, and burning of hemorrhoids at home: Ease pressure Dont stand or sit for a long time. It puts pressure on the veins in your lower body. When you do sit, use a pillow under your bottom. A rocking chair or recliner may be more comfortable.

Eep moving Exercise 30 minutes most days, with your doctors OK. If you have to sit for long periods, make sure you walk around every hour or so. Prevent constipation Eat high-fiber foods. Good choices include whole-grain breads and cereals, fruits and vegetables, and beans. Drink plenty of water. A glass of prune juice may also help.

Soothe irritation Try a warm bath. Soak your bottom in a few inches of warm water several times a day to relieve pain.

What Are Some Tips For Preventing Hemorrhoids During Pregnancy

While many bodily changes during pregnancy cant be modified, like the weight youre gaining as your baby grows and the added pressure that puts on your backside, there are some tips you can keep in mind to try and avoid hemorrhoids before and after childbirth.

Drink lots of water, as that helps keep bowel movements regular.
Eat a high fiber diet in order to stave off constipation and bathroom straining.
Avoid straining on the toilet even if bowel movements are tough. Try to eat fibrous supplements or try sitz baths to help with constipation.
Dont sit on the toilet too long reading your favorite blogs
Try not to sit in general for too long. Stretch your legs at least once an hour
Do kegel exercises to keep your rectal muscles in shape.
Dont wipe too hard with toilet paper. Switch to wet wipes or a bidet if you are becoming irritated after using the bathroom.

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What Causes Hemorrhoids During Pregnancy

Pressure from your enlarging uterus starting around week 25, plus increased blood flow to the pelvic area, can cause the veins in the rectal wall to swell, bulge and itch.

Constipation can aggravate, or even cause, hemorrhoids .

Hemorrhoids may also develop postpartum as a result of pushing during labor.

Every Time You Go To The Bathroom

Swap dry toilet paper for wet wipes. Instead of using dry toilet paper, try using natural baby wipes to avoid more irritation.

Clean the area with a perineal bottle filled with lukewarm water.

Apply a watch hazel compress. You can get Tucks, which are already pre-made. Or, you can make your own using even cleaner ingredients. To DIY the pads, soak an eye makeup pad in organic witch hazel, then put it on your bum, let it sit for 15 minutes, then dispose.

Apply a topical solution for continued relief. Some great options include:

Coconut oil. It has antibacterial and anti-fungal properties that can help with the itching. It can also relieve pain and inflammation and should help hemorrhoids heal within a few days.

Aloe vera. Apply aloe to the inflamed area for relief. Best to use fresh aloe vera from the leaves of a plant. Whole Foods sells large aloe leaves or you can get a plant at your local nursery. If those arent options, be sure to use a pure aloe vera without added chemicals and fragrances.

Herbal balms. Alternatively, you can try a soothing balm, like this one, or an essential oil blend, like this one.

Arnica. Apply an arnica gel to the area. Arnica reduces inflammation and heals bruises.

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Why And When Do Pregnant Women Get Hemorrhoids

Mostly, pregnant women get hemorrhoids at the last months of pregnancy or during the labor time.

During pregnancy, our body tends to produce everything in excess. Same is the case with the blood flow. There will be surplus blood flow through the veins and in a few instances, it will pool up in parts of the body especially in the rectal area.

Moreover, the growing uterus puts an additional pressure on the pelvic veins and the inferior vena cava thus slowing down the return of blood from the lower limbs. This will contribute much pressure on the veins below the uterus resulting in the inflammation of that region.

The other reason for hemorrhoid is straining exerted by a constipated pregnant woman. Constipation during pregnancy is usually caused by the intake of iron tablets and fewer amounts of water and fiber intake.

A hike in the hormone progesterone also plays a role in developing hemorrhoids. The increase in the progesterone hormone relaxes the walls of the veins and slows down the intestinal tract. This also results in the formation of hemorrhoids during pregnancy.

Will Haemorrhoids Affect My Baby

Some women are concerned that haemorrhoids might affect their pregnancy or their baby, but there is no evidence to support this. However, there is some concern that the pushing process during labour and birth can worsen your haemorrhoids. Speak to your midwife if you are concerned about haemorrhoids during your pregnancy or birth.

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Key Points About Hemorrhoids And Varicose Veins In Pregnancy

Both hemorrhoids and varicose veins are swollen, twisted veins. These veins are often in the legs, but when they form in the rectum, they are called hemorrhoids.
Many normal changes in pregnancy can increase the risk for hemorrhoids and varicose veins.
Hemorrhoids and varicose veins in pregnancy are a short-term problem, and they get better after your baby is born.
You can do things to ease the discomfort they can cause. These include sitz baths, ice packs or cold compresses to reduce swelling, and creams or other medicines, such as stool softeners, your healthcare provider may recommend.
The best way to help prevent hemorrhoids during pregnancy is to prevent constipation. If you are constipated, don’t strain during bowel movements.

How Are Hemorrhoids And Varicose Veins In Pregnancy Treated

Hemorrhoids During Pregnancy – and How To Treat Them

Hemorrhoids in pregnancy are a short-term problem, and they get better after your baby is born. Still, there are some things you can do to relieve the discomfort:

To relieve pain, sit in a tub or sitz bath several times a day in plain, warm water for about 10 minutes each time. When you use a tub bath, dont fill the tub all the way. Just put in enough warm water to sit in. That will direct blood flow to your rectum.
Use ice packs or cold compresses to reduce swelling.
Ask your healthcare provider about creams or other medicines, such as stool softeners, that are safe to use during pregnancy.

Its important to prevent constipation by including lots of fiber and fluids in your diet.

Also try not to strain with bowel movements, and avoid sitting for a long time. Regular Kegel exercises can help improve muscle tone, These exercises involve squeezing and relaxing the muscles in your vaginal and rectal area.

Most varicose veins that develop during pregnancy get better within the first year after birth. But for now, limit standing or sitting for a long time without a break, and try not to cross your legs. Also try to raise your legs and feet whenever youre sitting or lying down.

Avoid tight clothing around your waist, thighs, and legs, as it can worsen varicose veins.

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What Can I Do To Prevent Haemorrhoids

There are lots of things which can be done, but there is no guarantee of success. But you could try any or all of the following tips to try and reduce the likelihood of you developing pregnancy haemorrhoids

Avoid constipation. Hard, dry bowel motions are much more difficult to pass and they contribute to haemorrhoids.
Drink lots of water aim for at least 2.5 litres a day. Water helps to keep poos soft and makes them easier to pass.
Fruit juice, herbal teas and fluids all help to avoid constipation.
Avoid sitting on the toilet for long periods of time. Stay for as long as you need to but avoid placing any unnecessary and prolonged pressure on the bowel and rectum.
Place your feet on a stool when youre doing a poo. This helps to build the right level of intra-pelvic pressure.
Avoid straining to poo. If you don t need to go then get up and move away from the toilet.
Don t ignore the sensations of needing to empty your bowels. Overriding this signal leads to problems with constipation. Over time, it also affects the tone and sensations of the lower bowel so it does not work as effectively as it should.
Make sure your diet is high in fibre and roughage. Fruits, vegetables, bran, oats, cereals and wholegrains are bulk forming and easier to pass.
Avoid eating large amounts of red meat, white bread and processed foods. Indigestible fibre works like a broom in the bowel and helps to avoid sluggishness.

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If Youre Having A Bowel Movement

Squat to do your doo. Squatting is the natural way to poo. Sitting, or worse, leaning back, pinches the intestines so your stool gets stuck. It puts a lot of pressure on the rectum. Squatting, on the other hand, lets everything relax. You can try raising your legs up and leaning forward so youre in a more squat position, or you can invest in one of these.

Here are more tips on how to have a great poop.

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How Do You Know You Have Hemorrhoids

Pregnant women who are suffering from hemorrhoids may experience itching, burning, uncomfortability, pain and less frequently rectal bleeding.

There can occur two types of hemorrhoids during pregnancy – internal and external. Internal hemorrhoids can cause painless bleeding, recognized by light-colored blood in your stool or on your toilet paper after wiping. Sometimes, these internal hemorrhoids can protrude.

If you feel soft swollen masses in your rectal area when wiping then you have external hemorrhoids. These can cause painful, hard lumps around your rectum.

Do You Need To See A Doctor

You dont usually need to see a doctor for hemorrhoids. Natural remedies will usually take care of them in a few days.

If youve tried all the aforementioned remedies and pregnancy hemorrhoids symptoms persist, call your midwife or doctor.

If you have severe symptoms like more than a smear of blood, a lump on the rectum, or have rectal pain, call your midwife or doctor.

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Tips For Managing Hemorrhoids During Pregnancy

Perhaps the best news about having hemorrhoids during pregnancy is that they usually improve or heal not long after the baby is born. In some cases, they can get worse or originally form postpartum as a result of pushing hard during delivery. Either way, there are numerous methods and home remedies for avoiding or easing the discomfort of hemorrhoids even while still pregnant:

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Vary Your Activity Level

Sitting or standing for long periods of time places added pressure on the pelvis during pregnancy and can lead to the development or worsening of hemorrhoids. If you are required to sit at a desk for hours at a time, try to stand up every 30 minutes or so to stretch and walk around.

If, on the other hand, you need to stand on your feet for long periods of time , ask for a bar-height stool to sit on.

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What Medications Are Used To Treat Hemorrhoids During Pregnancy

If constipation is making your hemorrhoids unbearable, your healthcare provider may prescribe a laxative, hemorrhoid cream, or a fiber supplement. Always check with your provider before taking any over-the-counter medications. Your provider is your best resource for making sure youre choosing options that are effective and safe.

How Are Hemorrhoids During Pregnancy Diagnosed

9 Proven Natural Home Remedies For Hemorrhoids During Pregnancy

Hemorrhoids during pregnancy are common enough that your healthcare provider will likely know that you have hemorrhoids by how you talk about your symptoms. To be sure, your provider may:

Your provider can usually spot external hemorrhoids.
Do a digital rectal exam. Your provider may insert a gloved finger inside your rectum to feel for any internal hemorrhoids.
Do an anoscopy or sigmoidoscopy. Both procedures are simple and quick. They allow your provider to see inside your rectum.

None of the options sound pleasant, but getting a hemorrhoids diagnosis is more uncomfortable than painful. And dont be embarrassed. This is a routine diagnosis for your provider.

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Why Should Pregnant Individuals Be Mindful Of Their Toilet Habits Too

Toilet habits

Certain activities, like sitting in the toilet for an extended time, can cause hemorrhoids as well. You may be inclined to play mobile games or read while using the toilet, and time can pass by. This simple activity can lead to congestion and increases the likelihood of hemorrhoids. For this reason, it is best to limit the time you spend inside the restroom.

Diet

One of the most likely reasons for having hemorrhoids while pregnant is poor eating habits. Not consuming enough fiber and eating lots of carbohydrates may lead to developing hemorrhoids, just like non-pregnant people do. Milk and dairy products contain high amounts of calcium, which is one cause of constipation.

To avoid this chain reaction, eat right and perform regular physical activities, even minor movements .

Can You Give Birth With Hemorrhoids

Soak the lower body in hot water for 10-15 minutes a few times a day to help relax, stimulate blood circulation, relieve pain, or use ice packs on the area.

Need to reduce swelling and discomfort.

Body. Accordingly, the best way to prevent hemorrhoids in pregnant women is to examine and diagnose hemorrhoids at reputable medical facilities to detect early signs of hemorrhoids, thereby taking measures to help reduce the risk of hemorrhoids. Severe progression, it is difficult to intervene when the subject is pregnant.

The hemorrhoid examination and diagnosis package of Vinmec International General Hospital will help pregnant women receive advice on how to best prevent, treat and improve hemorrhoids. Please dial for more information or register for an appointment, Download to make appointments faster and receive 15% off for consultation fee at the first appointment .

What shrinks hemorrhoids fast during pregnancy?

Soak in warm water. Soak in a tub filled with warm water. Dont put soap or bubble bath in the water.

Keep in mind that constipation contributes to hemorrhoids during pregnancy. To relieve or prevent constipation:

Include adequate amounts of fiber in your diet by eating lots of fruits and vegetables
Ask your health care provider to recommend a safe fiber supplement to take during pregnancy
Ask your health care provider to recommend a safe stool softener to take during pregnancy
Drink plenty of fluids
Include physical activity in your daily routine

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Remedies And Treatments For Pregnancy Hemorrhoids

There are several remedies you can try to get rid of hemorrhoids during pregnancy:

Use cold. Cold therapy may reduce swelling and discomfort. Apply an ice pack to the affected area several times a day. Some women also find cold compresses saturated with witch hazel soothing.
Use heat. Soak your bottom in a tub of warm water for 10 to 15 minutes a few times each day. If you don’t have a tub, you can buy a sitz bath, a small basin that you fill with water and position over your toilet so you can sit and submerge your rectal area.
Alternate cold and hot. Use cold treatments first, then warm, and repeat.
Keep clean. Clean the affected area gently but thoroughly after each bowel movement. Use soft, unscented toilet tissue, which is less irritating than other varieties. Many women prefer to use unscented wipes rather than toilet tissue. You can also buy wipes moistened with witch hazel specifically for treating hemorrhoids.
Medicate. Ask your healthcare provider about taking medication for hemorrhoids during pregnancy. They may recommend a topical anesthetic or medicated suppository that’s safe to use. Talk to your provider if you need to use these products for more than a week.