When being pregnant, many concerns surface and start eating you up. While most of these concerns are regarding the baby, others are about you and your health. One of the most common concerns pregnant mums face are pregnancy hemorrhoids. In this article, we will answer every question regarding them to put your mind at ease.
All You Need to Know about Pregnancy Hemorrhoids
What are pregnancy hemorrhoids?
First of all, hemorrhoids are a condition of swollen veins or vessels developing around the rectum. This condition can either be superficial or it can cause pain and bleeding. Overall, it is a condition that makes going to the bathroom uncomfortable. Most doctors divide hemorrhoids into either internal or external. Moreover, anyone can get hemorrhoids. But unfortunately, pregnant mums are at a higher risk.
What is the difference between internal and external hemorrhoids?
Usually, external hemorrhoids are easier to treat. They do not require much treatment unless they cause extreme discomfort. As for internal hemorrhoids, medication and treatment is necessary. Some treatments can be creams, non-operative treatments, or surgery depending on how severe it is.
What causes pregnancy hemorrhoids?
There are many reasons why a pregnant mum might get hemorrhoids. Such as:
- – Constipation – which is the most common cause.
- – Pressure on the pelvis from the baby’s weight.
- – A low fiber diet.
- – Lifting heavy objects.
- – Changing hormones.
- – Increasing blood volume.
Overall, pregnant mums are at high risk of getting hemorrhoids during their third trimester. That is mainly because your uterus is expanding. Thus putting more pressure on your pelvic veins. As a consequence, those veins return the blood more slowly from your lower body. Which would increase the rectal pressure and cause the veins to be swollen.
Are there any symptoms to look out for?
Just like any illness, pregnancy hemorrhoids have their own symptoms that you can look out for.
- – Painful bowel movement.
- – Sensing a swollen area around the rectal area.
- – Itching.
- – Burning.
- – Bleeding.
When having internal hemorrhoids, bleeding is more likely to happen. As for external hemorrhoids, it can make sitting very uncomfortable or even painful.
How can I treat pregnancy hemorrhoids?
First of all, we must note that this is not an issue that can “go away on its own”. In fact, if left untreated, it can cause severe complications including anemia from bleeding. Some mums refuse seeking treatment out of shyness or embarrassment. But we assure you, this is a very common issue amongst pregnant mums. Even more than you think. Therefore, do not be hesitant to seek medical care if you have pregnancy hemorrhoids.
In addition, consult with your doctor on how to treat your hemorrhoids. There are plenty of great creams or sprays that can ease your pain and treat this issue.
Home remedies
1| Sitz baths.
Soaking in clean warm water for 10 to 15 minutes daily is perfect to treat hemorrhoids. This is the first thing doctors recommend for mums or anyone who is experiencing this. Sitz baths are also great to cleanse private areas and ease all sorts of pains.
2| Using gentle flushable wipes.
Flushable wipes are more gentle on the skin than regular dry toilet paper. Using them will help you avoid causing more damage to the area.
3| Stay hydrated.
As we mentioned before, constipation is one of the most common causes of hemorrhoids. And the best way to avoid constipation is to stay hydrated and drink plenty of fluids. This includes water, flavored water, herbal teas, natural juices or smoothies and detoxing drinks.
4| Kegel exercises.
While kegel exercises are considered the best for postpartum mums. They are also a great home remedy for hemorrhoids. It will help strengthen your muscles, thus increasing blood circulation.
5| Ice pads.
Ice pads are great to help relieve the pain caused by hemorrhoids. Hold an ice pack in your area daily for a few minutes and it will ease your pain greatly. You can also use a donut pillow to help ease the pain.
Can I prevent them?
You can prevent pregnancy hemorrhoids by simple steps. Such as:
- – Staying hydrated.
- – Including fibers in your diet.
- – Taking epsom salt baths.
- – Moving and exercising.
- – Avoid pushing too hard when going to the bathroom.
