Can I Touch My External Hemorrhoids?

Personally Researched | Last Updated: June 2026 | Based on Clinical Studies & Personal Experience.

Can You Touch Your External Hemorrhoids? 

Whether you're looking to relieve discomfort or just curious, it's important to know the best way to handle the situation. Let's talk about it in a simple, everyday way.  

Can I Touch Them?  

The short answer is yes, you can touch them, but with some precautions. It’s essential to be gentle and careful when you touch them. Here’s why:  

1. Avoiding Infection

Touching external hemorrhoids with dirty hands can lead to infection. Always make sure to wash your hands before and after touching the area.

2. Reduce Pressure and Irritation

If you press or rub too hard, you can irritate the hemorrhoid further, making it worse. This could increase pain or swelling, so try not to squeeze or rub the area.  

3. Proper Care

If you need to touch your hemorrhoids for any reason (like applying medication), use clean cotton balls, gauze, or gloves. This will keep things hygienic and reduce the risk of causing more harm.  

4. Moisture Matters

Sometimes hemorrhoids can become dry or cracked, making them more sensitive. If you must touch them, try to keep the area moist with moisturizing creams or ointments recommended for hemorrhoids.

The Best Way to Care for External Hemorrhoids

Instead of focusing too much on touching them, the key is to use proper methods to soothe and treat external hemorrhoids. Here are a few tips:  

1. Use a Cold Compress

Use a Cold Compress for external hemorhoids relief

Applying a cold compress or ice pack can help reduce swelling and ease discomfort.  

Cold therapy can make a real difference when sitting feels unbearable — see our guide to the Best Cold Compresses for Hemorrhoids to find one built for the job instead of a makeshift ice pack.

2. Sitz Baths

Sitz Baths for external hemorhoids relief

Soaking in a warm bath (just enough to cover the affected area) a few times a day can help relax the muscles and alleviate pain.

For a step-by-step guide on water temperature, timing, and how to get the most relief from this remedy, see Do Sitz Baths Really Work for Hemorrhoid Pain?

3. Apply Creams or Ointments

Relieve hemorrhoids by Apply Creams or Ointments

There are many over-the-counter creams designed to treat hemorrhoids. Look for ones containing witch hazel, hydrocortisone, or aloe vera.

For an honest side-by-side breakdown, check out our comparison of the 7 Best Hemorrhoid Creams, covering ingredients, pros, and who each one is best suited for.

4. Increase Fiber Intake

relieve hemorrhoids by increasing fiber intake

Avoid straining during bowel movements by eating a diet rich in fiber. This will help keep things moving smoothly and prevent the hemorrhoids from becoming more inflamed.

Research shows fiber supplementation can significantly cut the risk of hemorrhoid bleeding — see our comparison of the Best Fiber Supplements for Hemorrhoids to find the right one for your gut.

When Should You Avoid Touching Them 

There are a few cases where you should be extra cautious:  

Conclusion  

In short, it’s OKAY to touch external hemorrhoids, but only when necessary and with care.  

Focus on gentle treatment, maintaining good hygiene, and using remedies that help reduce pain and inflammation.  

And remember, if things aren’t getting better or you’re unsure, reaching out to a healthcare provider is always a good step.  

By taking proper care of your external hemorrhoids and following these tips, you can keep your symptoms in check and prevent them from worsening. 

📑 Related articles

• Hemorrhoids Explained - Symptoms Causes Simple Home Remedies.
• Constipation and Hemorrhoids Connection
• How to Heal Your Anus after Constipation
• Whar Are the Best Sleeping Positions for Hemorrhoids
• 10 Simple Tips And Remedies to Relieve Hemorrhoid Itching

📚 Medical Sources