Hemorrhoids & Pregnancy 101: A Guide to Dealing with Hemorrhoids When Pregnant

Hemorrhoids & Pregnancy 101: A Guide to Dealing with Hemorrhoids When Pregnant

What exactly are Hemorrhoids?

Hemorrhoids, also called piles are quite common in most adults today with research stating that nearly 3 out of 4 adults suffer from the condition from time to time.

The condition is also very popular in pregnant mothers and will usually become profound in the third trimester of the pregnancy.

Hemorrhoids, which may result from straining during bowel movements and a number of other risk factors, will usually manifest with varicose and swollen veins in the lower rectum and anal area.

They often cause itching, pain and discomfort and/or bleeding.

In some cases, a clot may be formed in a hemorrhoid.

These clots can be extremely painful and may need to be incised and drained in order to treat the condition and bring comfort to the patient.

There are 2 different types of hemorrhoids, internal hemorrhoids and external hemorrhoids.

Pregnancy is one of the risk factors associated with hemorrhoids due to the increased pressure in these anal and rectal muscles in the period of conception, they are also associated with constipation and bowel movements.

As the volume of blood in these areas, the uterus begins to press against the pelvis.

This causes the veins in the anus to enlarge into clusters, and due to the sensitivity of pregnancies, these hemorrhoids have to be handled in a sensitive and professional manner.

Fortunately, a number of lifestyle changes and treatment options will help many mothers deal with the condition and symptoms effectively.

A postpartum home care program "revealed a significant difference between the two groups in terms of the use of supplements, birth control methods, postpartum depression, breastfeeding problems, constipation, and fatigue" (1). 

Hemorrhoids and Pregnancy

Hemorrhoids are the cause of much discomfort in most patients who deal with the condition.

With hemorrhoids often comes pain, itching, discomfort, and even bleeding.

And as if the discomfort of your growing belly isn’t enough, many women have to deal with these symptoms as a result of their pregnancy.

Hemorrhoids are common during pregnancy for several reasons:

• Increase in pressure. During pregnancy, the uterus grows as the baby develops. As the uterus grows, it puts an increase of pressure on the pelvic veins. The vena cava, in particular, is greatly affected. This vein is located on the right side of the body and it receives blood from the lower limbs. As the pressure increases, the veins below the uterus can experience a slowing of the blood flow. This causes the veins to dilate and swell.
• Constipation. As you may know, constipation is one of the leading causes of hemorrhoids. And, during pregnancy, women are at an increased risk of constipation. This can cause hemorrhoids because of the strain that often exists during bowel movements (2).
• Increase of hormones. Progesterone is a hormone that increases as you go through your pregnancy. Unfortunately, progesterone can contribute to constipation and cause the walls of your veins to swell more easily.

How do I know if I have Hemorrhoids when I’m pregnant?

There are a number of signs and symptoms that may point to Hemorrhoids during pregnancy.

Some of these are dependent on the location of the hemorrhoids, but generally include:

• Itching or Irritation in the rectal or anal region
• Presence of blood in small amounts during bowel movement
• Swelling around the anus
• Painful or stinging sensations or discomfort around the anus
• Lump, which may be painful or thrombosed, near the anus. These are referred to as thrombosed hemorrhoids.

In the cases of internal hemorrhoids which occur inside the rectum, hemorrhoids are usually not visible and may not be felt as they rarely cause discomfort.

These hemorrhoids may only be noticed or felt when straining to pass a stool as the hemorrhoid surface becomes damaged and may bleed.

Our how to get rid of internal hemorrhoids guide can help you get the relief you need.

Sometimes, straining may push these internal hemorrhages put through the anus, thereby resulting in a condition referred to as prolapsed or protruding hemorrhoids, and can be accompanied with pain or irritations.

External hemorrhoids will usually manifest under the skin surrounding the anus and may itch or bleed when irritated.

Many pregnant women wonder will external hemorrhoids will go away? Check out our guide on how to stop hemorrhoid itching and burning.

Thrombosed hemorrhoids as earlier mentioned forms as a result of blood pooling in an external hemorrhoid, thereby clotting and resulting in severe pain, inflammation and swelling around the rectal and anal areas.

Are Hemorrhoids dangerous while pregnant?

Hemorrhoids pose no immediate danger to both fetus and mother during pregnancy.

Asides the accompanying pain, irritation and discomfort that is experienced by mothers in the period of their conception to birth, hemorrhoids have not been shown to cause complications during childbirth or significant complications to the health of the babies.

Occasionally, a hemorrhoid bursts and bleeds. They typically only bleed for about 10 seconds. If that lasts longer, you should likely see a physician.

Hemorrhoids Early Pregnancy Tips

If you experience hemorrhoids during early pregnancy, they will likely continue to progress as you move through each trimester.

By the third trimester, they may be very difficult to ignore. As the weight of the uterus and the baby grow, the increase in pressure will cause your hemorrhoids to get worse.

The best way to handle hemorrhoids in early pregnancy is to use at-home hemorrhoid treatments to try to resolve the pregnancy hemorrhoids.

There are many OTC hemorrhoid medicines you can use to get relief.

Women who can resolve their hemorrhoids in early pregnancy should follow measures to prevent their recurrence.

You can take the following steps to prevent swelling in your veins.

• Take measures to avoid becoming constipated. Keeping your stool soft and having regular bowel movements is important during pregnancy. Staying hydrated is helpful for hemorrhoid prevention, and it is good for you and your baby. Get plenty of fiber and talk to your doctor about the use of stool softeners if you are struggling with constipation. (3)
• Talk to your doctor about healthy pregnancy weight gain and try to stack on track. The more weight you gain, the more pressure there will be on your rectum. Work to avoid gaining more than the recommended weight.

Four to eight weeks after you give birth, your symptoms should subside.

As your hormone levels even out, you should notice your discomfort begin to resolve.

If you continue to experience symptoms, talk to your doctor about more aggressive treatment methods.

Hemorrhoids During Pregnancy

Hemorrhoids during pregnancy can be either internal or external.

While some women are just naturally predisposed to hemorrhoids because of their genetics, pregnancy hemorrhoids are common.

The weight of the baby and the uterus on the rectum causes most hemorrhoids to be pushed out.

This leads to external hemorrhoids or prolapsed internal hemorrhoids. As the pregnancy progresses, the hemorrhoids tend to get worse.

During pregnancy, there are a few symptoms you can watch for that indicate you may be dealing with hemorrhoids. Two of the most common symptoms are pain in the lower rectum or itching at the opening of the anus.

These symptoms will likely be exaggerated during bowel movements. Other symptoms include:

• Bleeding
• Increased pressure in the anal area
• The feeling of a lump or mass

Unfortunately, because hemorrhoids are actually caused by the changes in your body during pregnancy, most symptoms will continue until you give birth.

There are several options, however, that can be used to reduce hemorrhoid pain during pregnancy:

• The use of ice packs to reduce swelling and numb the feelings of discomfort. This provides nearly immediate, but temporary, hemorrhoid relief.
• Sitz baths are a great home remedy for pregnancy hemorrhoids. When you sit in a warm bath for 15 minutes, a few times a day, you can soothe the symptoms of hemorrhoids. This also serves as a great time to relax. Read a book. Clear your mind. After a long day on your feet, carrying around extra weight, this treatment option is two-fold.
• Witch hazel hemorrhoid pads deliver a cooling effect that can also reduce swelling. Following a bowel movement, witch hazel hemorrhoid wipes can be used to clean the anus.
• Baking soda can be applied topically to alleviate itching associated with pregnancy hemorrhoids.
• Over-the-counter medications, such as hemorrhoid creams and ointments, can be used to reduce swelling, sooth hemorrhoidal tissue, and numb the area. During pregnancy, it is important to check with your physician to be sure the medication you are planning to use is safe for you and your baby.
• Hemorrhoid supplements may be a good idea as long as they are okayed by your doctor. HemRid Plus is a quality hemorrhoid supplement you may be interested in.

How can I treat hemorrhoids at home while pregnant?

For Pregnant mother, hemorrhoids should be referred to doctors and clinical specialists, but luckily, even before heading to see your doctor, a number of easy and safe treatments can be done from home to help relief the symptoms of the condition.

Try the following for hemorrhoid relief:

1. Place some baking soda (apply topically) on the affected area to help reduce the itchy symptoms
2. Take a cold or warm bath, applying some baking soda in the water 
3. Avoid placing any strain or pressure on the anal region
4. Avoid sitting or standing for long
5. Use medicated pads, like Preparation H or Tucks Medicates Pads.
6. Apply witch hazel to reduce hemorrhoid bleeding or swelling symptoms. There are also specialized witch hazel pads such as Tucks, that are designed to help treat the symptoms of hemorrhoids. 
7. Use ice packs on affected area to soothe the hemorrhoid pain and control swelling. Hemorrwedge is a great ice pack for hemorrhoids.
8. Take a Sitz bath, spending 10-15 minutes with the warm water in the tub. Better Bath Better Body Sitz Bath is an excellent option.
9. Applying coconut oil for hemorrhoids is another option you can try.

Tips For Hemorrhoids After Pregnancy

Even if you did not experience hemorrhoids during your pregnancy, postpartum hemorrhoids are common.

After delivery, especially for those who deliver vaginally, many patients develop hemorrhoids.

This is caused from the pushing involved with giving birth.

In addition, many women experience constipation after birth. This can be caused by a lot of the medications provided to patients while they are in the hospital for labor and delivery.

For postpartum hemorrhoids, there are many at-home remedies that can be helpful in alleviating the symptoms. These include:

• Alternating cold ice packs and warm sitz baths. This will reduce swelling, soothe pain and itching, and provide temporary yet natural relief. You may also be able to get some postnatal ice packs to bring home from the hospital.
• Cleanliness is important, especially after you give birth. Ask your doctor for a squirt bottle called a peri-bottle. This can be filled with warm water to clean the area. You can then pat dry to prevent further irritation.
• Make sure all hygiene products you use are unscented and free of dyes.
• Talk to your doctor about going home with over-the-counter treatment options to care for your hemorrhoids.
• Although it may be difficult with a new baby, lie does as much as you can. This will help keep the anal area free of pressure.
• You can use acetaminophen or ibuprofen for temporary relief. Speak with your doctor about the proper dosage. These medications are safe for breastfeeding mothers when used as prescribed.

If you are consistent with your at-home care, you should notice improvement following birth.

If your hemorrhoids continue, or you experience rectal bleeding or irritating pain, talk to your doctor. In some cases, a more aggressive treatment may be necessary. You may consult with a hemorrhoid doctor as well if you have a serious case.

Here is a Video Regarding Hemorrhoids and Pregnancy

What medications and creams can I use for hemorrhoids while pregnant?

A number of over-the-counter medications are available to choose from to help with complications that many arise with hemorrhoids during pregnancy.

Ointments and creams like Anusol, Tucks or Preparation H provide a relief and soothing protective layer that also helps to shrink and reduce the symptoms of swelling.

Other cases of hemorrhoids that are more severe may require formulations that contain steroids or numbing agents that help top sooth the inflammation.

Pregnant mothers are advised to consult with doctors before embarking on treatment with any medications.

Laxatives and stool softeners such as Maltsupex, Dulcolax and Move It Along! can also be used to ease bowel movements and reduce the stress placed on the anal or rectal areas.

Here are the top hemorrhoid creams of 2018

Can I use hemorrhoid suppositories while pregnant?

Although there have not been widespread or significant number of complications experienced with the used of hemorrhoids suppositories during pregnancy, it is strongly advised that these treatments are only administered when necessary.

Some studies suggest that some evidence for malformation and the drugs may also reduce blood flow in the uterine thereby causing fetal hypoxia.

Can I have hemorrhoid surgery while pregnant?

In instances where medical therapies fail to help manage the symptoms and relieve pain, operative interventions may be needed to help treat the problem.

Although many mothers may experience fear for themselves and fetuses, there is no risk for a hemorrhoidectomy and the process is completely safe, brining only the corrective intervention it was intended for and causing no damages to both fetus and mothers.

Make sure you speak with your obstetrician before opting for hemorrhoid surgery when pregnant.

Final thoughts on Hemorrhoids and Pregnancy

Constipation has a direct relationship and is one of the biggest risk factors for developing hemorrhoids.

To prevent this conditions during pregnancy, diet and lifestyle changes should be effected to ensure that there is no constipation and lesser pressure on the rectum.

First, avoid getting constipated by eating foods that are rich in fiber, drink a lot of water and fluids especially prune juices.

Another tip is to ensure that you do not delay going to the toilet to ensure that excess pressure is not placed on your rectum.

Also, try to aim for healthy pregnancy weight gain as being overweight often predisposes mother to having hemorrhoids during pregnancy.

Best Medication for Hemorrhoids During Pregnancy

There are plenty of medications available that are safe to use during pregnancy, but it is also important for you to consult your doctor before using any medication for hemorrhoid treatments.

Creams like Preparation H are safe to use while pregnant, as well as hemorrhoid wipes that include natural ingredients like witch hazel.  Witch hazel has anti-inflammatory properties and wipes with witch hazel have a cooling and soothing feel when applied.

For pain relievers that can be taken orally, acetaminophen and ibuprofen are both safe to use during pregnancy. 

However, you should talk to your doctor about dosage before taking either medication.

Best Hemorrhoid Cream During Pregnancy

The secret in finding the best hemorrhoid cream to use during pregnancy is finding a cream with natural ingredients. 

Studies have concluded that the use of natural ingredients like beeswax, honey, and olive oil are effective in treating symptoms of hemorrhoids. 

Products that have accumulated a number of 5 star reviews on sites like Amazon as being both safe and effective treatments for hemorrhoids that occur during pregnancy. 

Other popular creams like Preparation H are also safe to use when pregnant. 

As with any other treatment—natural or not—consult your doctor before use.

Hemorrhoids Post Pregnancy Overview

Why do hemorrhoids seem to be most prevalent and painful post pregnancy?  This is because throughout labor, mothers use their abdominal muscles and subsequently, their muscles in the lower rectal region, to push and deliver the baby. 

Mothers know that labor can go on for several hours, so the straining that occurs during this time inflames the rectal veins, resulting in swollen hemorrhoids.

Experiencing hemorrhoids post pregnancy is completely normal. 

You can use natural remedies to soothe the pain caused by the swollen hemorrhoids. 

Many methods of treatments are safe to use even while breastfeeding.  If symptoms persist for more than a few weeks, consult your doctor for a treatment plan.

Hemorrhoids can be unbearable at times, so get as much help as you can by checking out this hemorrhoid pain guide.

Will Hemorrhoids Go Away on Their Own After Pregnancy? 

Yes, hemorrhoids will go away on their own, even after pregnancy. 

Hemorrhoids can be at their worst after labor, due to the straining and pushing that occurs for delivery, especially for mothers that deliver vaginally.

After pregnancy, hemorrhoids may remain inflamed and irritated for a few days, but symptoms should subside naturally anywhere from just a few days to two weeks. 

One step you can take to help with hemorrhoid treatment is to include more fiber in your diet.  This will keep your colon regular, bowel movements less strained, and keep the veins inside your rectum from becoming inflamed. 

You want to avoid constipation as much as possible because this is one of the leading causes of a hemorrhoid flare-up.

Consult a hemorrhoid doctor before you decide to use an OTC hemorrhoid medicine.

Hemorrhoids Early Pregnancy Symptoms

Hemorrhoids that occur during early stages of pregnancy are quite common. When you are pregnant, your hormone levels are constantly changing. 

This can result in things like constipation, which is one of the factors behind hemorrhoid inflammation and other painful symptoms that result from it.

Some of the signs and symptoms of hemorrhoids during early pregnancy are:

• Itching around the anal opening
• Small bumps that form around the anal opening, also known as external hemorrhoids
• Bleeding after a bowel movement
• Pain or discomfort around the anal region

This post can help learn how to stop hemorrhoid itching and burning.

These symptoms can be safely treated with hemorrhoid creams, ointments, and supplements like stool softeners and fiber. 

Avoid sitting for long periods of time, or if you do, use a comfortable ring or cushion to help with the discomfort of these symptoms.