How To Treat Bleeding Hemorrhoids During Pregnancy?

Being pregnant on its own is a challenging and overwhelming process leave alone, having to deal with other complications. Besides morning sickness, there are other common issues such as hemorrhoids that you have to deal with, especially in the third trimester. Generally, hemorrhoids are swollen veins found in the rectum that can cause burning, itching, pain, or bleeding. You shouldn’t worry much about them because they are common. However, if you experience painful or bleeding hemorrhoids during pregnancy, you should contact your doctor immediately.

Are Bleeding Hemorrhoids Dangerous During Pregnancy?

Hemorrhoids during pregnancy are common and usually not a sign of a serious issue. But if the symptoms persist, then you should talk to the doctor - just to be safe.

For instance, you may not be able to tell for sure where the blood has originated from. It could be coming from the vagina and not the rectum. Sometimes rectal bleeding can also be caused by other serious complications such as anal and colorectal cancer. Allow your doctor to perform a physical examination of your condition and administer the effective treatment for your situation.

If its hemorrhoids, don't stress too much over it; in most cases, they will go away soon after treatment or delivery.

What Can Cause Bleeding Hemorrhoids During Pregnancy?

In most cases, bleeding hemorrhoids or hemorrhoids, are associated with constipation when the growing uterus pushes against your bowel. According to a study by the BMJ Clinical Evidence journal, as many as 38% of expectant women experience constipation at some point during the pregnancy.

For pregnant women, as the baby grows inside the uterus, it exerts pressure against your pelvis on the veins near your lower rectum and anus. As a result, these veins get swollen and painful and sometimes may break and cause bleeding.

Another common cause of bleeding hemorrhoids is the increased levels of the progesterone hormone during pregnancy. The hormone is said to relax the walls of the veins, thus making them more prone to swelling and bursting.

Also, an increase in the blood volume in the body may cause the veins to enlarge and contribute to the development of bleeding hemorrhoids. Other possible causes include;

• Prolonged standing or sitting
• Straining during bowel movements
• Taking calcium and iron supplements - They increase the risks of constipation
• A low-fiber diet

Symptoms Of Hemorrhoids During Pregnancy

Bleeding after a bowel movement during pregnancy is one of the most common and clear symptoms of hemorrhoids during pregnancy. Other symptoms of hemorrhoids during pregnancy include;

• Itching and burning in the anal area
• A soft lump on the edge of the anus
• Discomfort and pain after visiting the bathroom
• Blood traces on your toilet paper after visiting the bathroom

In some cases, you may not feel the hemorrhoids for they may have formed probably inside the rectal area. This type is known as internal hemorrhoids. Other types of hemorrhoids include the external and thrombosed hemorrhoids. Usually, the symptoms of hemorrhoids will depend on the type of hemorrhoids that you have.

How Do You Treat Bleeding Hemorrhoids During Pregnancy?

While bleeding hemorrhoids can be alarming due to the bleeding, fortunately, there are numerous medications and home remedies that are available to manage hemorrhoids. To treat or ease the discomfort of bleeding hemorrhoids, try out the following remedies;

• Soak the affected area with warm water, especially after going to the bathroom. Don't put soap in the water.
• Over the counter medication - Apply witch hazel medicated pads to the affected anal area.
• Apply a hemorrhoid cream - Make sure it's safe to be used during pregnancy.
• The best way to treat bleeding hemorrhoids during pregnancy is by consulting with your doctor. The doctor is better-informed and will advise you on the best medication or home remedies for your condition.

How To Prevent Hemorrhoids During Pregnancy?

Prevention is better than cure. Given the fact that hemorrhoids are common during pregnancy, it's important to take some measures to prevent their development. Here are a few measures you can choose to relieve or prevent hemorrhoids primarily resulting from constipation;

• Take safe fiber-rich foods or a fiber supplement. Consult with your doctor.
• If you are experiencing difficulties passing stool look for a safe stool softener
• Have plenty of fluids especially water
• Include physical activity in your routine
• Don’t sit or stand for long periods of time.
• If you experience hemorrhoids during pregnancy, don't worry yourself over it. They are common, and in most cases, they will heal on their own. To be safe and to prevent them from worsening, seek the appropriate treatment. Also, seek immediate treatment if you discover bleeding hemorrhoids during pregnancy, or if you experience very painful hemorrhoids during pregnancy.