Hemorrhoids during pregnancy

Verified by midwife Maria Midstam

Hemorrhoids during pregnancy are common. They are completely harmless, but can be very annoying and sometimes painful. Here we go through what hemorrhoids are, why they occur, and how you can relieve the symptoms at home.

What is hemorrhoids?

Hemorrhoids are dilated blood vessels in the rectum, which can sit inside or outside the rectal opening.
Often both internal and external hemorrhoids occur at the same time, and in many cases they resolve on their own.

During pregnancy, the amount of blood in the body increases. At the same time, the growing uterus presses against the large blood vessels in the abdomen, making it harder for blood to circulate. As the pressure in the blood vessels of the rectum gets higher, hemorrhoids form more easily.

How do I know if I have hemorrhoids?

There are several symptoms that may indicate hemorrhoids:

• Bleeding from the rectum during toilet visits
• Bright red blood on the paper when you wipe yourself, or in the toilet after you poop
• Itching, burning or pain around the rectal opening
• The feeling that something is bulging
• In some cases, leakage of gases, mucus or feces

Minor hemorrhoids can occur without you noticing it.

How can I prevent or alleviate these problems?

1. Eat fiber-rich food and drink water

• Constipation increases the symptoms of hemorrhoids.
  Avoid foods that pasta, white bread and rice, as it can make your stomach hard.
  Eat instead fruit, vegetables and other high-fiber foods, and make sure you drink enough water.
• Some medicines - such as iron tablets, painkillers and antacids - can also make you constipated.

2. get moving

• Regular physical activity reduces the risk for hemorrhoids.
• Avoid sitting still for long periods.

3. wash clean with water

• Wash the skin around the rectal opening with lukewarm water morning and evening.
• Dry gently by pat dry with paper or towel.
• Avoid soap as it can irritate the skin.

Lukewarm water soothes the skin and keeps the area clean without irritating.

4. gently push back the hemorrhoids

• If the hemorrhoids bulge, you can gently push them back. It should not hurt.

5. Pharmaceuticals

• There are over-the-counter medicines that relieves discomfort.
• In the pharmacy there are ointments that softens the skin and contracts the blood vessels.
• Ask the pharmacist for advice based on your symptoms.

FAQ - Frequently asked questions about hemorrhoids during pregnancy

1. Is hemorrhoids dangerous during pregnancy?
No, they are harmless but can be painful and distressing.

2. Why do you get hemorrhoids when you are pregnant?
The uterus puts pressure on the blood vessels in the pelvis, blood volume increases and the bowels become slower - increasing pressure in the rectum.

3. How do I know if it is hemorrhoids or something else?
Bright red blood on the outside of the stool often indicates hemorrhoids. If unsure - contact your healthcare provider.

4. Can I use hemorrhoid cream when I am pregnant?
Yes, over-the-counter ointments can be used during pregnancy. Ask your pharmacist for advice.

5. Do hemorrhoids disappear after pregnancy?
They often go away on their own after childbirth.

6. Can I prevent hemorrhoids?
Yes, by eating a high-fiber diet, drinking water and exercising regularly.

7. When should I contact the health service?
If you are bleeding heavily, have a fever or are in severe pain.