Hemorrhoids During Pregnancy

Hemorrhoids during pregnancy are very common and are usually only temporary, improving or disappearing altogether after the birth of your child. They most often occur in the third trimester of pregnancy. Hemorrhoids are caused during pregnancy by constipation and straining to have a bowel movement. Standing for a long period of time can contribute to the causes of hemorrhoids, as well as the pressure placed on the rectum and the perineum from the baby. If you have already encountered hemorrhoids before your pregnancy, they could become worse.

Hemorrhoids are blood vessels that have swollen in size to accommodate the pressure around the area. There are typically two kinds of hemorrhoids: internal and external. Internal hemorrhoids occur inside the rectum and external hemorrhoids occur near the anus, outside your body, and they are covered with a thin layer of skin. Generally, hemorrhoids range in size from a raisin to a grape.

Pregnancy tends to slow down the workings of your gastrointestinal tract, thereby setting the stage for constipation. Hemorrhoids can also cause bleeding. You will want to make sure your physician knows about your hemorrhoids so he or she can be prepared to offer guidance.

What can you do to ease the pain, itching, and burning of your hemorrhoids condition? You can:

# Avoid sitting for long periods of time. Get up and walk around, even if it is just for a little while. Don't just stand, walk.

# When sitting, avoid hard surfaces. Look for softer surfaces or keep a pillow handy.

# Use either wet or dry baking soda on the affected area to help with itching or burning.

# Take warm baths. You might consider adding a little baking soda to the water or try a Sitz bath (alternating between hot and cold water).

# Medicated pads are available for purchase to use externally to get relief from the pain, itching, or burning of hemorrhoids symptoms.

# Witch hazel is a natural remedy believed to help reduce swelling.

The best thing you can do to prevent hemorrhoids, or keep them in check if you are already experiencing them, is to:

# Eat plenty of fruits and vegetables to try to maintain regularity in your body's system.

# Do not put off going to the bathroom when you feel the need. The more you try to wait and “hold it", the worse conditions you make for yourself.

# Ensure there is plenty of fiber in your diet. Good sources of fiber include bran cereal, apples, and spinach, just to name a few.

# Drink plenty of fluids. The fluids could include prune juice if you are not getting enough fiber in your diet from another food option.

Take care of your hemorrhoids during pregnancy as you have enough on your mind; you don't need the added irritation of hemorrhoids if you can prevent them or treat them to alleviate their symptoms. Always check with your doctor before taking any medication internally when you are pregnant. Your physician may also prescribe stool softeners or recommend fiber supplements, if they are necessary.

Please visit us to learn more about hemorrhoids treatment options and to get treatment reviews.
July 28, 2008

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