Hemorrhoids During Childbirth: What to Know

Hemorrhoids are generally caused by pushing during childbirth, or other pregnancy-related issues. In this article, we'll tell you everything you need to know. 

In this article, we’ll explain the causes of hemorrhoids during childbirth, and the measures you can take to alleviate the pain they can produce.

Hemorrhoids are the result of an inflammation of the veins located in the rectum or anal canal. They’re a very common issue during pregnancy, although they can also develop while the woman is pushing during labor.

During pregnancy, the veins under the uterus are subject to possible swelling or dilation. The intense pressure of the uterus on the veins in the anal region often causes hemorrhoids.

In addition to appearing during pregnancy or childbirth, hemorrhoids can also result from postpartum constipation, when the body removes the extra fluids needed in pregnancy and begins to produce breastmilk.

Why do hemorrhoids appear?

Hemorrhoids can appear as the result of labor 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 that cause hemorrhoids.

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

Hemorrhoids can form internally or externally. If they form inside the rectum, they’re called internal hemorrhoids. When they develop outside the anus, they’re known as external hemorrhoids.

Additionally, bleeding is a significant symptom of internal hemorrhoids, which occur when the veins dilate to the point of exit through the anus before returning to the rectum.

With regard to external hemorrhoids, they usually appear on the skin near the anal orifice. They usually fade after two weeks.

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

How to prevent hemorrhoids during childbirth

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

1. Stay properly hydrated

First of all, you should drink plenty of water in order to maintain proper hydration throughout pregnancy. In fact, you should consume 1.5 to 2 liters of water a day. This usually helps to soften the stool and facilitate its evacuation.

2. Maintain a fiber-rich diet

A diet that contains fiber is the best natural remedy for constipation-related disorders. This is because it includes large portions of fruits, vegetables, and cereals. For instance, oranges are a great natural laxative to combat constipation.

3. Try to control negative emotions

It’s important to control emotional stress and eliminate any unnecessary anxiety you many feel before giving birth.

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

4. Get regular physical activity

Finally, it’s important to keep in mind that it won’t be easy to get regular physical exercise during pregnancy. However, it’s important to avoid sitting for long periods of time.

Walking helps reduce blood pressure while promoting blood flow within the body, so it’s useful for combatting hemorrhoids.

After delivery, the healing of a burst hemorrhoid involves a local treatment to reduce inflammation and a suppository, cream, or local corticosteroids. Getting your digestive processes back to normal is essential.

Finally, consider hemorrhoids as a sign that you need to take care of your health as a future mother. Pay more attention to diet, hydration and exercise, while avoiding emotional stress and anxiety.

This way, you’ll be able to avoid hemorrhoids!