How to Treat Hemorrhoids During Pregnancy?

Table of Content

• Symptoms of Hemorrhoids During Pregnancy

• Causes of Hemorrhoids During Pregnancy

• Treatment of Hemorrhoids During Pregnancy

• When to see a doctor

• Take-Home Points

Introduction

Pregnancy is an enjoyable course in life that yields a lot of happiness and expectations to many Indian families. However, it can also bring some challenges, with hemorrhoids occurrences.  Hemorrhoids refer to swollen blood vessels in the rectal area and are often associated with discomfort and pain. Some pregnant women normally experience this condition as a result of physiological changes that come with pregnancy.

In India where traditional remedies and family advice are significantly beneficial in health care and hemorrhoid treatment, it is important to understand the causes, symptoms, and treatment options to assist expectant mothers navigate this condition with comfort and get the necessary care.

In this blog, we will explore more about the symptoms of hemorrhoids during pregnancy, their causes, whether it is normal to experience them, and the best way to deal with them. We will also look at home treatments and remedies on how to address hemorrhoids during pregnancy.

Symptoms of Hemorrhoids During Pregnancy

Pregnancy hemorrhoids can trigger various uncomfortable symptoms. The most common symptoms you should look out for include:

Painful bowel movements

This happens to be one of the most common symptoms of hemorrhoids during pregnancy. The pain normally occurs due to the pressure that the growing uterus exerts on the veins around the rectal region.

Irritation and itching

You may experience mild to severe irritation and itching around the rectal region due to pregnancy hemorrhoids. You may be tempted to scratch, but intense scratching can lead to injuries and make irritation more severe.

Bleeding

In some cases, you may spot blood on tissue paper or on stool after a bowel movement. This mainly occurs if you are experiencing internal hemorrhoids.

Swelling

Some expectant mothers may experience a swollen, blue or bright-red lump around the rectal region. This normally happens if you have external hemorrhoids.

Prolapsed hemorrhoid

This normally occurs when an internal hemorrhoid protrudes outside of the anus. This can result in very painful hemorrhoids during pregnancy.

It is advisable to consult a healthcare professional if you notice any of these symptoms, particularly bleeding hemorrhoids during pregnancy. They will offer a proper diagnosis and treatment plan to your particular case. In addition, you will be guided on effective ways to manage these symptoms and provide relief.

Causes of Hemorrhoids During Pregnancy

There are various factors that can lead to hemorrhoids during pregnancy. They include:

1. Fetal Pressure

As your baby continues to grow, the uterus expands and this may put a lot of pressure on the veins around the pelvic region. This can lead to the formation of hemorrhoids.

2. Increased Blood Volume

If you are expectant, your body is compelled to produce more blood so as to support the growing fetus. This can make your vein enlarge and expand, resulting in the formation of hemorrhoids.

3. Constipation

A good number of expectant mothers experience constipation due to slower digestive system and hormonal changes. These factors can lead to straining during bowel movements, and eventually cause the formation of hemorrhoids

4. Hormonal imbalances

Pregnancy is often associated with hormonal changes that can make the wall of your veins relax. When your veins become relaxed, they are more susceptible to inflammation and swelling, which can lead to the formation of hemorrhoids.

A combination of these factors can lead to hemorrhoids while pregnant. It is advisable to consult a health professional for proper diagnosis and treatment options.

Treatment of Hemorrhoids During Pregnancy

If you have been wondering how to treat hemorrhoids during pregnancy, it is worth noting that it involves a combination of medical treatment, home remedies, and lifestyle changes. 

• Medical Treatment of Hemorrhoids During Pregnancy

Medical intervention can be an effective hemorrhoid treatment during pregnancy and may involve:

1. Over-the-counter creams: There are various OTC creams, oils and ointments that are considered safe for treating pregnancy hemorrhoids. It is important to consult a health care professional before using any medication.

2. Stool softener: Inquire from your healthcare provider about the best stool softener if you experience constipation during bowel movements.

3. Use suppositories: These are medications that your health care provider may recommend to relief pain and inflammation due to hemorrhoids during pregnancy.

• Home Remedies of Hemorrhoids During Pregnancy

There are certain home remedies for hemorrhoids during pregnancy you can try if your symptoms are not severe enough to seek medical intervention.  These include:

1.  Taking warm baths: You can soak in a bathtub filled with warm water for 15 to 20 minutes a couple of times a day. You should avoid using soap or bubble bath as they can irritate the hemorrhoids.

2. Cold compresses: Application of ice or cold compresses to the affected areas is one of the effective home remedies for hemorrhoids during pregnancy. It may help to soothe the discomfort and reduce inflammation in the affected areas.

3. Coconut oil: Given that it has anti-inflammatory properties, coconut oil for hemorrhoids during pregnancy is an effective home remedy that can be easily accessible and easy to apply.

4. Witch hazel: The natural astringent in witch hazel can be effective in treating hemorrhoids during pregnancy. It promotes healing, reduces swelling, and soothes irritation. You can gently apply wipes or cotton pads soaked in witch hazel to the affected area for immediate relief.

Lifestyle Changes

There are a few lifestyle changes that can help you cope better with pregnancy hemorrhoids. They include:

1. Exercise regularly: Gentle to mild workouts like walking, jogging or swimming can boost your circulation and lower the pressure exerted on your pelvic area. Start with gentle exercises to avoid burnout which can make hemorrhoids symptoms worse.

2. Stay hydrated: Drinking plenty of water and other fluids is paramount if you experience hemorrhoids during pregnancy. These fluids may help to soften your stools and make them easier to pass.

3. Consume fiber-rich foods: Consumption of a diet that is rich in fiber may help to prevent constipation, which is among the top causes of hemorrhoids. On top of fiber-rich diet, consume plenty of vegetables, fruits, legumes and whole grains.

4. Avoid sitting for too long: Expectant mothers may be tempted to sit for longer hours. If you must sit, try to take some breaks by standing and walking around while performing minor chores in the house.

When to see a doctor

In the event you notice no improvements after deploying the home remedies for hemorrhoids during pregnancy, it is advisable to consult your healthcare provider. You may also require medical intervention from a medical expert if your hemorrhoids are very painful or bleeding heavily.

Health professionals may recommend personalized treatments or, though rarely, surgery after giving birth. It’s worth noting that hemorrhoids are common during pregnancy and most of the cases are resolved once you give birth.

You should take good care of your health by following the tips we have shared which may help to manage the symptoms and make your pregnancy both enjoyable and comfortable.

Take-Home Points

Pregnancy hemorrhoids can be very annoying, but if you deploy the right approach, you can manage the symptoms effectively. To manage pregnancy hemorrhoids effectively, some of the important tips you should always keep in mind include:

• Engage in regular workouts

• Consume fluids in plenty

• Avoid sitting for longer hours

• Eat a diet that is rich in fiber

• Try warm baths without soap

• Apply cold compresses

• Seek professional assistance if hemorrhoids symptoms persist