Hemorrhoids in Pregnancy
What are hemorrhoids?
Hemorrhoids are swollen blood vessels in and around the anus and lower rectum which make it very painful to have a bowel movement. They are extremely common and according to the Cleveland Clinic about 30-40% of pregnant women experience them.
Symptoms:
Pain with a bowel movement
Itching in and around the anus
Blood in the stool or on the toilet paper after having a bowel movement
Why are pregnant women at a greater risk?
Pregnant women are at a greater risk of getting hemorrhoids due to the added weight of the growing fetus, increased blood volume, and changes in hormones which can lead to constipation. Those three things can cause an increase in pressure to the lower digestive track which in turn causes the blood vessels to swell.
How are hemorrhoids diagnosed?
Since hemorrhoids are so common, your health care provider can normally diagnose them by hearing your explanation of symptoms. To ensure this though, your provider can look at the anus to identify any external hemorroids or do a digital rectal exam to feel if there are any internal hemorrhoids present.
Treatment & Management
Most hemorrhoids go away on their own once the pressure is relieved but since they can be so painful it’s important to understand how to manage them throughout pregnancy and postpartum.
Relieve constipation
Increase fiber in diet
Ensure you are staying hydrated
Take an over the counter stool softener
Use a “squatty potty” or stool to ensure optimal positioning to make having a bowel movement easier
Home remedies
Apply witch hazel to reduce pain and itching
Sitz bath
Avoid standing for long periods of time
Use a donut cushion when sitting
Medical Management
PreparationH cream
The Rectal Rocket
A suppository made of lidocaine and hydrocortisone that is inserted rectally and provides relief
Working with a Pelvic Floor PT can help manage hemorrhoids.
If you are experiencing hemorrhoids, please don’t hesitate to reach out to a pelvic floor physical therapist. Pelvic PTs can help treat and manage hemorrhoids by determining the cause. If the pelvic floor muscles are overactive or not coordinating like they should it can make it a lot harder to get stool out requiring significant straining which is a primary cause of hemorrhoids. Pelvic floor PTs can also give foundational education on diet, management, and exercise to help with hemorrhoid prevention.
Pregnancy and postpartum are hard enough and hemorrhoids are one thing that are easily diagnosed and treated. If you or someone you know is experiencing them, please reach out. Our team at Women in Motion would love to be a part of your treatment and wellness journey.