Hemorrhoids During Childbirth: What You Need To Know

In this article, we will explain the causes of hemorrhoids during childbirth and the precautions you can take to relieve the pain they can produce.

Hemorrhoids are the result of an inflammation of the veins located in the rectum and the anal canal. They are a very common problem during pregnancy, although they can also develop when the woman presses during childbirth.

During pregnancy, the  veins under the uterus are affected by possible swelling and dilation. The intense pressure from the uterus on the veins in the anal region often causes  hemorrhoids. 

In addition to occurring during pregnancy or childbirth,  hemorrhoids can also be a result of constipation after pregnancy,  when the body removes the extra fluid needed during pregnancy and when it begins to produce breast milk.

Why do hemorrhoids occur?

Hemorrhoids can occur as a result of pregnancy and increased pressure on the anus. However, there are other causes for this disorder. In fact, the physical changes experienced by women during pregnancy are usually the same ones that cause hemorrhoids.

During this period,  the uterus begins to grow inside the pregnant woman as the baby also increases its size. This process leads to a decrease in blood circulation. These changes can cause the appearance of hemorrhoids due to the increase in blood pressure in the lower part of the body.

Hemorrhoids can take shape internally or externally. If they occur inside the rectum, they are called internal hemorrhoids. When they develop outside the anus, they are called external hemorrhoids.

Furthermore,  bleeding is a significant symptom of internal hemorrhoids,  which can occur when the veins dilate to the point that they exit the anus before returning to the rectum.

According to external hemorrhoids, they appear, as a rule, on the skin near the anal opening. They disappear, as a rule, after two weeks.

Most pregnant women take iron supplements to stay healthy. However, consuming large amounts of this mineral can lead to constipation. It is an important factor in the onset of hemorrhoids.

How to prevent hemorrhoids during childbirth

Hemorrhoids are caused by the pressure exerted during childbirth,  although they can also be a result of the constipation that occurs after giving birth. Here are a few ways to prevent them:

1. Be adequately hydrated

First of all, you should  drink plenty of water to maintain proper hydration during pregnancy. In fact, you should consume 1.5-2 liters of water a day. This usually helps to soften the stool and facilitate emptying.

2. Have a high-fiber diet to prevent hemorrhoids during childbirth

A diet high in fiber is the best natural remedy for constipation-related disorders. This is because, this diet contains large amounts of fruits, vegetables and cereals. For example, oranges are an excellent natural laxative to fight constipation.

3. Try to control negative emotions

It is important to  control emotional stress and eliminate any unnecessary anxiety  you may feel before giving birth.

Stress has the ability to increase blood pressure, which enlarges the veins in the anal cavity. The result: the annoying hemorrhoids.

4. Exercise regularly

Finally, it is important to  keep in mind that it will not be easy to engage in regular physical activity during pregnancy. However, it is important to avoid sitting down for too long at a time.

Walking helps reduce blood pressure while promoting blood circulation in the legs. Therefore, it is useful in combating hemorrhoids.

After childbirth, the  healing of an outbreak of hemorrhoids involves local treatment to reduce inflammation  as well as a suppository, cream or local corticosteroids. It is essential to get your digestive process back to normal.

Finally, consider hemorrhoids as a sign that you need to take care of your health as an expectant mother. You need to pay even more attention to your diet, fluid intake and exercise while avoiding emotional stress and anxiety. 

That way, you will be able to avoid hemorrhoids!