Of course, talking about hemorrhoids is unpleasant for all of us, but the occurrence of hemorrhoids during pregnancy is a fact of life.
Hemorrhoids are a disease of the anal veins characterized by the enlargement, downward displacement, or protrusion of the hemorrhoidal cushions. The human rectum consists of muscle and connective tissue. The inner mucous membrane is lined with cushions—that is, hemorrhoidal cushions.
Hemorrhoidal cushions can be pushed downward along with the mucous membrane when a person strains hard. As a result, blood circulation is disrupted, the hemorrhoidal cushions increase in size, and they protrude outside.
Hemorrhoids develop rapidly during the third trimester of pregnancy. They also occur outside of pregnancy. There are two types of hemorrhoids: internal and external. Internal and external hemorrhoids differ significantly from each other.
Internal hemorrhoids form inside the body in the rectum. Since they occur in the rectum, they are difficult to diagnose. Some internal hemorrhoids may be prolapsed, meaning they protrude from the anus.
External hemorrhoids appear outside the body. They are located near the anus and are covered with skin. The skin in this area is extremely sensitive and highly prone to inflammation. If external hemorrhoids become swollen or clotted, they can cause damage to the intestines.
If a mass forms as a result of a blood clot in a hemorrhoid, it can lead to sudden, severe pain. The pain intensifies greatly during the first 48 hours.
What are the symptoms of hemorrhoids?
Symptoms of hemorrhoids can vary depending on the type of hemorrhoids you have.
- bleeding (blood on underwear, toilet paper, or in the toilet bowl during bowel movements);
- painful bowel movements;
- lumps on the skin around the anus;
- itching;
- a burning sensation;
- swelling.
What causes hemorrhoids during pregnancy?
Pregnant women are often affected by hemorrhoids. According to studies, 50% of pregnant women develop hemorrhoids.
Causes of hemorrhoids during pregnancy:
- increased blood volume;
- increased pressure from the uterus on the veins near the anus;
- hormonal changes;
- constipation.
Do hemorrhoids disappear after pregnancy?
After childbirth, hemorrhoids can completely disappear due to a decrease in hormone levels, blood volume, and abdominal pressure. During pregnancy, hemorrhoids most commonly appear in the third trimester and during childbirth.
What are the treatment methods?
Hemorrhoids can be prevented and treated at home. However, home treatment alone is insufficient. Untreated hemorrhoids may worsen over time and lead to complications such as increased pain or anemia due to bleeding.
To diagnose hemorrhoids, it is necessary to consult a doctor. Hemorrhoids are not the only cause of bleeding near the anus; it is recommended to consult a doctor immediately if you notice bleeding when wiping or in your stool.
Methods for treating hemorrhoids at home
Daily activities you can do at home to get rid of and prevent hemorrhoids:
- Use wipes or pads containing sea buckthorn oil;
- Use soft and flushable wipes during defecation;
- Use a sitz bath and soak in plain warm water for 10 minutes several times a day;
- Take a bath with Epsom salt at a moderate temperature;
- To avoid putting excessive pressure on the anus, do not sit on the toilet for a long time, and perform physical exercises;
- To keep your stools soft, drink plenty of water and eat fiber-rich foods;
- Make Kegel exercises your regular workout to strengthen your muscles.
