Haemorrhoids After Delivery – Causes, Relief, and Prevention

ByArwa Aliakber
Updated: 20 Nov 2025, 8:00 pm
Medical Reviewed by Dr. Shweta Wazir

Postpartum haemorrhoids are a common occurrence after pregnancy. It is especially seen following vaginal delivery. They can cause pain, swelling, itching, or bleeding, but usually improve within weeks. With simple home remedies like sitz baths, cold packs, fibre-rich foods, and gentle care, you can ease symptoms. Persistent or severe cases should be discussed with your doctor.

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What Are Haemorrhoids?

Haemorrhoids are swollen veins found inside your rectum or around your anus. During pregnancy, the pressure around your rectum and anus increases due to the growth. This added pressure can cause veins to swell. Haemorrhoids are especially common after vaginal delivery.
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You might notice symptoms such as:
  • Bleeding during bowel movements
  • Swelling
  • Itching or discomfort
Most haemorrhoids go away on their own in a few days to several weeks. However, in some cases, they may require medical attention.

Why Do You Get Haemorrhoids Postpartum?

There are various reasons behind haemorrhoids after delivery. Understanding why haemorrhoids happen after delivery can help you prevent and manage them. The various reasons for postpartum haemorrhoids include:
  • Pressure During Pregnancy: As your uterus grows, it presses on the veins in your pelvic area and lower rectum. This slows down blood circulation, making veins more prone to swelling.
  • Hormonal Changes: Pregnancy hormones, especially progesterone, relax your blood vessel walls. While this helps your body accommodate the growing baby, it can also increase the risk of vein swelling. Additionally, progesterone can also slow your digestion, leading to constipation.
  • Constipation: Constipation is a common problem during and after pregnancy. Straining too much to pass stool increases pressure on the rectal veins. This pressure can trigger haemorrhoids. Additionally, iron supplements, decreased activity, and changes in diet after birth can worsen constipation.
  • Straining During Labor: Pushing during vaginal delivery forces blood into the veins around your anus, which can cause swelling or blood clots (thrombosed haemorrhoids). The longer you push, the higher your risk of developing postpartum haemorrhoids. Even instrumental deliveries or large babies can increase the chance of haemorrhoids.
  • Postpartum Lifestyle Factors: Sitting for long periods, heavy lifting, and limited mobility after birth can also contribute to haemorrhoids.

What are the Common Symptoms of Postpartum Haemorrhoids?

You might notice haemorrhoids right after delivery or in the first few weeks postpartum. The symptoms of postpartum haemorrhoids may vary in type and severity. The symptoms of haemorrhoids post-delivery include:
  • Pain and Discomfort: You may feel tenderness or soreness around the anus, especially when sitting or passing stool. Sometimes haemorrhoids may feel like small lumps near the anal area.
  • Bleeding: Seeing bright red blood on stools or toilet paper is a common sign. While this can be alarming, it is not dangerous in most cases. However, if you notice consistent bleeding, see your healthcare provider.
  • Swelling and lumps: External haemorrhoids appear as small bumps under the skin. Internal haemorrhoids may protrude during bowel movements. Prolapsed haemorrhoids extend from the anus and can be painful.
  • Itching or Irritation: Haemorrhoids can make the affected area feel itchy or irritated. The irritation may be more if hygiene is compromised.
  • Thrombosed Haemorrhoids: These are harder, painful lumps caused by clotted blood. They may need medical treatment if the discomfort is severe.
NOTE: While haemorrhoids are harmless in most cases, it is still important to monitor them.

How to Relieve Haemorrhoids at Home?

Most postpartum haemorrhoids improve with simple home care. Some simple home care tips you can try to relieve postpartum haemorrhoids at home include:
1. Avoid Straining: Try not to push too hard during bowel movements. Sit comfortably on the toilet and let gravity do most of the work. Avoid sitting for long periods while on the toilet.
2. Soak in Warm Water (Sitz Baths): Sitz baths are small, shallow baths for your anal area. Soaking 10–15 minutes, 2–3 times a day, can reduce pain and irritation. You can do this in a sitz bath or your bathtub. If you had stitches during birth, check with your doctor before soaking.
3. Use Cold Therapy: Apply ice packs or cold pads wrapped in a towel to reduce swelling.
4. Keep the Area Clean: Gently rinse with warm water after each bowel movement. Avoid harsh toilet paper and opt for unscented moist wipes. A clean anal area prevents irritation and promotes healing.
5. Dietary Changes: A high-fibre diet helps soften stools and reduce constipation. Include fruits, vegetables, whole grains, legumes, nuts, and seeds. Fiber supplements can be considered if needed, but check with your doctor first.
6. Hydration: Drink plenty of water, about 8–10 cups daily. Proper hydration keeps stools soft and helps prevent straining.
7. Gentle Exercise: Light activities like walking or swimming improve circulation and make bowel movements easier. Avoid heavy lifting or intense exercises that could worsen haemorrhoids.
8. Comfortable Seating: Sitting on a pillow or padded ring reduces pressure. This is especially useful while breastfeeding or resting.
NOTE: Topical Treatments and OTC Options like stool softeners, suppositories, creams, and medicated wipes are also available to treat haemorrhoids at home. However, it is important to inform your doctor before using them.

When to See Your Doctor

While most haemorrhoids improve within 6–12 weeks postpartum, contact your healthcare provider if you experience:
  • Severe or persistent pain
  • Large, hard lumps (possible thrombosed haemorrhoids)
  • Heavy or uncontrollable bleeding
  • Symptoms that don’t improve with home care
Your doctor may recommend safe medications, in-office treatments, or minor procedures if necessary.

How to prevent Postpartum Haemorrhoids?

You can take steps to reduce the risk of haemorrhoids in future pregnancies. Some of these include:
  • Eating a healthy, fibre-rich diet
  • Consuming plenty of liquids to stay hydrated
  • Avoiding constipation by using stool softeners if needed
  • Staying active as even with light walks or Kegel exercises, helps
  • Avoiding prolonged sitting or straining
  • Maintaining a healthy weight
Postpartum haemorrhoids are common, temporary, and usually not a cause of concern. However, they may be uncomfortable, especially during the postpartum healing period. But with simple home care, these postpartum haemorrhoids can be managed well. If you notice consistent bleeding and discomfort, speak to your healthcare provider.

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FAQs on Haemorrhoids After Delivery – Causes, Relief, and Prevention

  1. Do haemorrhoids only happen after vaginal delivery?
    No. Although postpartum haemorrhoids are commonly seen occurring after vaginal delivery, they may also happen in C-section mothers.
  2. Are haemorrhoids dangerous while breastfeeding?
    No, haemorrhoids are not dangerous while breastfeeding. However, inform your doctor if you are using any medication or cream to treat it.

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