Do haemorrhoids go away post-delivery?

Of course. In most cases, haemorrhoids shrink or disappear within a few weeks after delivery as the pressure on your vein reduces.

Can sitting for too long worsen haemorrhoids?

Yes, sitting for too long puts more pressure on the rectal area, which can worsen the swelling. Try different sitting positions or a gentle walk.

Are haemorrhoid creams safe during pregnancy?

Certain creams and ointments aren’t harmful, but you must apply only the ones your doctor recommends to keep you and the foetus safe.

Why Pressure from a Growing Belly Contributes to Haemorrhoids

Motherhood is one of the most beautiful phases of life, but it also welcomes different physical challenges. With your growing baby bump, your body adapts in remarkable ways, where your hormones fluctuate, your organs shift, and your blood volume increases. Haemorrhoids or swollen veins in the rectal area can be a really annoying side effect of these changes.

What Are Haemorrhoids?

Piles, also called haemorrhoids, are basically swollen veins that you get in or around your rectum and anus. They can be inside the rectum, i.e., internal, or under the skin near the anus, i.e., external. They get inflamed and start to hurt or itch when blood flow slows or there’s too much pressure on the veins.

While haemorrhoids aren't harmful, they can cause significant discomfort, especially when you're pregnant.

How Does a Growing Womb Cause Haemorrhoids?

Your growing womb puts more pressure on the pelvic veins, and the large vein that carries blood from your body back to your heart (inferior vena cava). This increased pressure inhibits blood circulation and causes blood to pool in the veins around your rectum, resulting in inflammation and haemorrhoids.

Here's how it develops:

An additional pressure on your pelvis by your growing uterus makes it harder for blood to circulate.
To support your foetus during pregnancy, your body produces 40 to 50% more blood. This adds more pressure to your veins.
The progesterone hormone relaxes blood vessel walls and inhibits digestion, which increases your risk of constipation. This causes straining, thereby worsening haemorrhoids.
You start to move less with the passing time, due to nausea or uneasiness. This also inhibits blood circulation.

What Symptoms Should You Consider?

Haemorrhoids can vary in severity. You might encounter:

Irritation or itching in the anal zone
Burning sensation or pain during bowel movements
A small drop of blood on the toilet paper
A lump or inflammation near your anus
Incomplete bowel movement

If you really have severe pain or lots of bleeding, call your doctor right away. It might mean there’s a problem that needs medical attention.

Can Haemorrhoids be Detrimental to You or The Foetus?

Here’s the good part: haemorrhoids won’t hurt your baby, and they usually get better after you give birth. However, untreated haemorrhoids can lead to pain, discomfort, or even infection if you scratch the area.

How to Manage & Prevent Haemorrhoids in Pregnancy?

You can't get rid of the risk completely, but you can stop haemorrhoids from getting worse and make yourself comfortable.

1. Manage Constipation

Constipation causes haemorrhoids. To prevent it:

Stay hydrated with 8 to 10 glasses of water daily.
Stay away from fried or processed foods, which might affect digestion.
Eat meals rich in fibre, such as fruits, vegetables, or whole grains.
Consult your medical expert about using a mild stool softener.

2. Don’t Strain During the Bowel Movement

Avoid prolonged sitting on the toilet. It just makes things worse for your haemorrhoids.

3. Frequently Change Positions

Try not to stand or sit for too long. Lie on your side while resting to reduce pressure on your rectal veins.

4. Apply Cold Compresses

If it hurts a lot or gets swollen, apply an ice pack or a cold compress to that area for 15 minutes. That should help.

5. Practise Gentle Exercise

Activities like walking or prenatal yoga help improve blood circulation and avert constipation. Just make sure to check with your doctor.

6. Stay Clean

To prevent irritation, keep your anus dry and clean by using fragrance-free, delicate wipes instead of dry tissues.

What Are the Emergency Situations?

Don’t neglect visiting a doctor if you experience the following scenarios:

Trying home remedies for a week, but not getting better.
Uncontrollable discomfort or continuous bleeding.
Swelling or blood clots in the affected area.
Fever or pus.

How to Manage Your Symptoms?

Drink plenty of water every day.
Eat fibre-rich meals to help you digest food better.
Try not to stand or sit for too long.
Do some light exercise with the doctor’s permission.
Use an ice pack for relief.
Discuss any symptoms with your medical expert.

Emotional & Social Aspect

Dealing with haemorrhoids can be painful and embarrassing to talk about, but don't forget, you're not alone. This is quite common during pregnancy. Talk to your partner, medical expert, or a support group about it directly. This can help you deal with the situation easily.

Pregnancy and haemorrhoids are quite a normal scenario, mostly due to the intensifying pressure of your growing uterus and hormonal shifts. They are agonising yet temporary. You can get rid of them by drinking enough water, doing gentle exercise regularly, eating well, and taking a break when necessary. And in case of further deterioration, consult a doctor immediately.

Whether you’re pregnant, a new mom, or navigating postpartum, you don’t have to do it alone. Join our support group to connect, share, and support one another.

FAQs on Why Pressure from a Growing Belly Contributes to Haemorrhoids

Do haemorrhoids go away post-delivery?
Of course. In most cases, haemorrhoids shrink or disappear within a few weeks after delivery as the pressure on your vein reduces.
Can sitting for too long worsen haemorrhoids?
Yes, sitting for too long puts more pressure on the rectal area, which can worsen the swelling. Try different sitting positions or a gentle walk.
Are haemorrhoid creams safe during pregnancy?
Certain creams and ointments aren’t harmful, but you must apply only the ones your doctor recommends to keep you and the foetus safe.