Hemorrhoid Treatment During Pregnancy
Hemorrhoids during pregnancy are a common health issue. Pregnant women are at a much higher risk of getting hemorrhoids. As the body of pregnant women changes, this puts more pressure on the females anorectal area.
This can produce internal as well as external hemorrhoids. Developing hemorrhoids is also increased by giving birth due to the amount of pressure placed on the anorectal region during labor.
Pregnant Women - The Causes of Hemorrhoids
- The pressure produced by the expanding uterus forms hemorrhoids during pregnancy. This also places additional pressure on the female’s pelvic region and the vena cava
- Hormonal changes cause the hemorrhoidal vessels to expand
- During childbirth, severe pressure occurs to the hemorrhoidal veins
- Frequent constipation during pregnancy increases straining and presure during bowel movements
Treating hemorrhoids during pregnancy
It’s important to let your doctor know that you experience what you believe to be hemorrhoids. This is because other conditions that are not hemorrhoids can cause similar symptoms.
Treatments for hemorrhoids during pregnancy focus on
- relieving symptoms
- increasing fiber and fluids to relieve pressure within the hemorrhoidal veins
- modifying bowel habits
Recommended treatment options include
- warm baths 20-30 mintues long, 4 to 5 times daily
- ice packs for external hemorrhoids applied for 15 minutes 3 or 4 times daily
- include more fiber and fluids in diet
- stool softeners
- pain relievers like Tylenol or Advil
- over-the-counter creams
Diet - Fiber Sources
- fruits
- vegetables (carrots & green vegetables)
- whole grains
- bran