For all the excitement and joy of pregnancy, there are plenty of less pleasant aspects. In order to create the necessary environment to grow a little bundle of joy, a woman’s body is put through a number of changes, which manifest themselves in a myriad of ways which can sometimes include nausea, cramping, and hemorrhoids.
Hemorrhoids during pregnancy are common
Hemorrhoids are common in general, but physical and hormonal changes during pregnancy create optimal conditions for hemorrhoids. The NIH reports “25% to 35% of pregnant women” suffer from hemorrhoids and “up to 85% of pregnancies are affected by hemorrhoids in the third trimester.” While it may be nice to know you’re not alone, you’re most likely just interested in how you can get relief from hemorrhoid pain.
The condition generally improves after delivery
In general, many pregnant women suffering from hemorrhoids will see the condition improve or clear up after delivery. Once they are no longer carrying the baby, the pressure from the fetus is gone and their hormone levels return to normal eliminating the conditions that were so ripe for hemorrhoid development.
You may be able to relieve the symptoms with a few simple tactics
If you’re looking for a few tactics to ease the pain of hemorrhoids during your months of pregnancy, you may wish to consider the following tactics:
- Take a warm, but not hot, bath. A simple soak in nothing more than warm water several times a day can often provide relief of your hemorrhoid symptoms.
- Avoid standing or sitting for long periods of time. Pressure is one of the primary causes of hemorrhoids and sitting for a long period of time exerts a lot of pressure directly on the veins in your rectal area. Take regular breaks to move around or lie on your side to take the pressure off your veins.
- Ask your physician or specialist about over-the-counter hemorrhoid remedies that are safe for use when pregnant. They won’t cure the underlying condition, but a hemorrhoid cream could help mask the symptoms enough to provide you the temporary relief you need.
Persistent hemorrhoids are an indication you may want to consult a specialist
If your hemorrhoids are severe enough that you notice bleeding or you can’t get any relief by trying some of the tactics we’ve already discussed, you may want to see a hemorrhoid treatment specialist like Dr. Stone Mitchell of Premier Hemorrhoid Treatment Center about your medical options.. If you continue to experience hemorrhoids well after the birth of your child, you may also wish to consult a specialist in hemorrhoid treatment to develop a treatment plan to get you the permanent relief you deserve.
If you’re pregnant and suffering from hemorrhoids and you’d like to discuss your treatment options, give Premier Hemorrhoid Treatment Center, the only dedicated hemorrhoid treatment center in Knoxville, a call today at (865) 588-9952 to schedule a consultation.