Hemorrhoids during Pregnancy and Postpartum: Causes, Relief, and Prevention Tips
Hemorrhoids during pregnancy are more common than most expectant mothers realize. While it’s still a bit of a taboo subject, nearly 38% of pregnant women experience hemorrhoids at some point.
Painful and sometimes unbearable, this condition can negatively affect daily comfort and quality of life before and after childbirth. But don’t worry — with the right information and habits, it’s possible to manage and even prevent hemorrhoids effectively.
In this comprehensive guide, we explain what causes pregnancy-related hemorrhoids, how to relieve them safely, and what steps you can take to prevent flare-ups — all while ensuring a smooth and serene pregnancy journey.
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| Hemorrhoids during Pregnancy and Postpartum: Causes, Relief, and Prevention Tips |
What Are Hemorrhoids and When Do They Appear?
Hemorrhoids are swollen blood vessels located in the anus and rectum. While they’re part of the natural venous network of the anal canal, they can become enlarged and painful — especially during pregnancy.
Most commonly, hemorrhoids appear in the third trimester (around the 6th or 7th month), when the growing uterus increases pressure on the pelvic veins. Postpartum hemorrhoids are also frequent, often triggered by the strain of childbirth and pushing during labor.
Types of Hemorrhoids
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Internal Hemorrhoids: Located inside the rectum, they are usually painless but can cause light bleeding or itching.
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External Hemorrhoids: These appear as painful lumps around the anus and are often accompanied by swelling, discomfort, and bleeding during bowel movements.
What Causes Hemorrhoids During Pregnancy?
The main culprit is constipation, a common pregnancy symptom. Straining during bowel movements increases pressure on anal veins. Other contributing factors include:
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Hormonal changes
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A growing uterus compressing pelvic blood vessels
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Nutritional imbalances
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Prolonged sitting or standing (Read the side effects of prolonged sitting)
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Strain during delivery (in postpartum cases)
How to Prevent Hemorrhoids During Pregnancy
1. Eat a High-Fiber Diet
To prevent constipation, pregnant women should eat more fiber-rich foods like whole grains, legumes, leafy greens, fruits, nuts, and seeds. Increase fiber gradually to avoid bloating, and drink 1.5 to 2 liters of water daily.2. Stay Active
Gentle physical activity such as walking 30 minutes, 3–4 times a week helps stimulate digestion and improve blood flow.3. Go to the Bathroom Regularly
Avoid delaying bowel movements. When using the toilet, elevate your feet on a small stool to improve rectal alignment and reduce strain. Circular massages on the lower abdomen can also help.4. Wear Compression Stockings
To improve circulation and prevent venous congestion, wearing compression stockings is highly recommended. Avoid crossing your legs and standing still for long periods.How to Relieve Hemorrhoid Pain During Pregnancy
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Consult your doctor before taking any medication. They may recommend pregnancy-safe suppositories, mild laxatives, or topical creams to reduce inflammation. Avoid self-medicating with anti-inflammatories or over-the-counter creams unless advised by a healthcare provider.
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Clean the area gently after each bowel movement using a neutral cleanser.
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Apply cold compresses or take warm sitz baths (20 minutes) to ease swelling.
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Lie on your side while sleeping to reduce pressure on rectal veins.
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Alternate positions during the day to prevent prolonged pressure on the pelvis.
What Is a Hemorrhoidal Thrombosis?
In some cases, blood clots may form inside a hemorrhoid, resulting in hemorrhoidal thrombosis. (See Photos Here) Though painful, this condition is not dangerous and usually resolves on its own with proper care.
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Around 8% of pregnant women experience this in their third trimester.
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After delivery, up to 20% of new mothers develop this issue during the postpartum period.
There’s no risk of serious bleeding — it’s a benign condition.
Hemorrhoids Are a Natural Sign of Change
If you’re dealing with hemorrhoids during pregnancy or postpartum, remember: there’s no shame in it. It’s not dirty, abnormal, or embarrassing — it’s your body adapting to an extraordinary transformation.
Instead of self-treating, speak with your doctor or midwife. With the right treatment and support, you can resolve the discomfort quickly and safely — for both you and your baby.
Conclusion
Hemorrhoids are one of the less talked about but very real discomforts of pregnancy and postpartum life. Fortunately, with the right habits — including good nutrition, gentle movement, smart toilet posture, and medical support — they can be managed and even prevented.
Take care of your body, listen to its signals, and don't hesitate to consult a healthcare professional. With safe treatments and supportive practices, you can enjoy a more comfortable pregnancy and smoother recovery.
