Hemorrhoids During Pregnancy – How to Handle the Situation

Hemorrhoids are likely to develop during pregnancy because of the constant increased pressure exerted in the lower abdomen. A large percentage of women develop hemorrhoids around the second trimester which sometimes got worse if no proper treatments are done. Even though it is unavoidable to develop hemorrhoids at the time of pregnancy, there are certain measures which can be taken to prevent the condition from worsening.

•    Take a good habit of eating healthy and consume more fibrous foods and also increase your fluid intake to avoid constipation (which requires straining to evacuate feces).
•    Do your kegel exercises which help a lot in improving blood circulation to the area.
•    Avoid unnecessary straining or linger on the toilet. Go for defecation only when you feel the urge, do not force.
•    Sleeping on the side instead on the back will lower pressure on the blood vessels in your pelvis, thus preventing hemorrhoids from getting bigger.
•    Strictly limit your alcohol consumption. Alcohol causes dehydration and may lead to constipation.
•    Avoid additional pressure such as heavy lifting, prolonged standing or sitting. Do frequent short walks.
•    Make use of ice packs or Sitz bath to alleviate symptoms such as itching and pain. A hemorrhoid cushion may help as well.
•    You are advised to ask your practitioner before the use of any medication for hemorrhoid during pregnancy.

The good news is that hemorrhoids usually go on its own after delivery. However, there are cases where the hemorrhoids got worse and may ask for advance treatments.