Hemorrhoids During Pregnancy

Pregnancy puts a woman at a higher risk for developing hemorrhoids. During pregnancy, extra pressure is put on the internal and external hemorrhoidal veins, which can result in symptoms ranging from a feeling of vague anal discomfort to bright-red blood covering the stool. In some cases, hemorrhoids during pregnancy can be prevented by getting regular exercise and consuming more fiber, among other things. For pregnant women who have hemorrhoids, there are several treatment options available. These can include stool softeners, pain relievers, warm baths, and other options.

 

Hemorrhoids and Pregnancy: An Overview

Among the many changes that happen to a woman's body during pregnancy, hemorrhoids is one that most pregnant women could do without. The fact is, though, that hemorrhoids during pregnancy are common -- and even more so during the third trimester.
 
Understanding what hemorrhoids are and how to prevent them during pregnancy may help many women avoid this pregnancy complication. For women who do develop hemorrhoids during pregnancy, understanding how to treat them may minimize the chances for continued problems.
 
The good news: for most women, hemorrhoids during pregnancy are just that. Once your baby is delivered, hemorrhoids usually improve.
 

What Are Hemorrhoids?

The term hemorrhoids refers to a condition in which the veins around the anus or lower rectum become swollen and inflamed. There are several groups of veins that surround the rectum and anus -- one group is known as internal hemorrhoidal veins, and the others are known as external hemorrhoidal veins.
 
There are two types of hemorrhoids: internal hemorrhoids and external hemorrhoids. As the name suggests, internal hemorrhoids affect the internal hemorrhoidal veins; external hemorrhoids affect the internal hemorrhoidal veins.
 
(Hemorrhoids During Pregnancy Continued: Page 2)
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Written by/reviewed by: Arthur Schoenstadt, MD
Last reviewed by: Arthur Schoenstadt, MD