Hemorrhoids And Pregnancy

Hemorrhoids are a serious problem. They basically are abnormally swollen veins located in the rectum as well as the anus. They can cause pain and bleeding in the anus. Hemorrhoids and pregnancy share a close relationship. In fact, pregnancy is cited as one of the main causes of hemorrhoids.

Find out all about the different types of hemorrhoids, such as internal and thrombosed external hemorrhoid and what kind of hemorrhoids treatment options are available for each.

Hemorrhoids can occur anytime, both during and after the pregnancy. One of the main causes of hemorrhoids during this period is that the pregnant women often become constipated during pregnancy. This constipation can further lead to hemorrhoids.

Another factor is that during pregnancy, the uterus grows which increases the pressure on the veins in the lower part of the body. This pressure causes a decreased blood flow to the lower region of the body that causes the veins to dilate or swell.

Also during pregnancy, the progesterone hormone is secreted from the body that causes the walls of the veins to relax. It results in further swelling. The progesterone also causes the slowing down of intestinal tract that may result in extra straining, thereby causing constipation and hemorrhoids.

The hemorrhoids can be prevented during pregnancy. The key to prevent it is to eat foods with a high fiber content and comparatively, low fat or grease. It is also very important to avoid any strain while having a bowel movement. Also it is very important to take regular exercise and drink lots of water and fruit juice to improve the digestion.

Even when the hemorrhoids happen, there are some ways to avoid them from getting worse. The patient should sit and soak the hemorrhoid affected area in a bath of warm water, several times every day. Also using pads with witch hazel for cleaning and soothing the affected area can be very helpful. It is very important to clean the anus after each bowel movement by using a moist toilet paper or baby wipes. Also taking a preparation of natural herbs can be very helpful.

Since, the hemorrhoids caused by pregnancy are a common phenomenon many medical treatment options have emerged to cure it. But you should always consult your doctor before picking any of these products available OTC.

Sometimes hemorrhoids may happen after the birth of the baby. However they are also easily curable. Even if no treatment is taken, the hemorrhoids vanish themselves very soon. Therefore it is not such a big problem.

So all in all, being aware of all the aspects about hemorrhoids and pregnancy a pregnant woman can successfully avoid hemorrhoids. And even if it does affect her, she should follow her doctor's advice and take best care of herself to avoid the symptoms.