Does everyone get haemorrhoids during pregnancy?

Not everyone will experience them. But research states that up to 75% of pregnant women develop haemorrhoids due to physical and hormonal changes.

If bleeding persists, could it hamper my baby’s growth?

Major blood loss may have an indirect effect on your physical well-being, impacting pregnancy. However, bleeding cannot directly harm the baby. It is still best to consult your physician if such a scenario occurs.

Is it safe to use over-the-counter haemorrhoid treatments during pregnancy?

Some topical treatments are safe. But before using any medication during pregnancy, seek medical advice.

Why Persistent Bleeding in Pregnancy Haemorrhoids Should Be Checked

Pregnancy introduces multiple changes in your body, and haemorrhoids, which are swollen veins in your rectal or anal area, are quite common. They can cause itching, discomfort, or bleeding during bowel movements. While mild bleeding can occur, you must not ignore persistent bleeding. Let's explore why and what it means for you.

How Do You Get Haemorrhoids During Childbirth?

Haemorrhoids happen when the blood vessels around your anal and rectal area swell. A few things during childbirth can make it happen:

Your body produces almost 50% more blood when you’re pregnant. This can put strain on your veins.
Progesterone relaxes the walls in your blood vessels, which can make them swell up more easily.
As your womb grows, it puts more pressure on the blood vessels in your pelvic area and slows down your blood circulation.
Many expecting mothers face constipation during pregnancy, and pushing too hard can really worsen haemorrhoids.

You might get haemorrhoids internally, i.e., inside your rectum or externally, that is, around the anus. Bleeding usually looks like bright red blood on the toilet paper, in the toilet, and occasionally in your stool. Being mindful of these symptoms helps you understand when you need medical attention.

Why Persistent Bleeding Can Be Alarming?

Sometimes, mild bleeding cannot do much harm. But prolonged or severe bleeding could be alarming. Here’s why paying attention matters:

If you lose a lot of blood, your haemoglobin can drop sharply, making you feel dizzy, tired, or like you can’t catch your breath.
Also, swollen or torn haemorrhoids can get infected if you don’t take care of them properly.

Haemorrhoids are normal. But internal bleeding could indicate severities, like anal fissures or other alarming conditions that need treatment.

What Are Some Worrying Signs?

If you have a fever that sticks around or any signs of infection
If you encounter heavy bleeding in your undergarments or toilet wipes
If you notice dark-coloured stool, it could mean that you are experiencing internal bleeding
You encounter a really painful situation that doesn't get better with home treatment
You’re often very tired, dizzy, or weak

What Can You Do to Reduce Haemorrhoid Bleeding?

Here’s what you can do to make situations better:

Avoid sitting for a long time on the toilet, and go when you naturally feel the urge
To soften your stools, drink plenty of water and eat fibre-rich foods
You must get habituated to regular walking or prenatal yoga. It can help improve your blood circulation and bowel movements.
You should take advantage of the benefits of witch hazel pads, icepacks, or doctor-approved creams to ease swelling.
You must maintain sanitation by cleaning the area with warm water or odourless tissues.
Lift up your feet while sitting. This can ease strain on the blood vessels in your rectum.

Even if these tips can ease symptoms, seek medical help if the bleeding doesn’t stop.

Can Haemorrhoids Affect Your Mood?

Haemorrhoids can be a disturbing experience, making you stressed and uncomfortable all the time. Discussing your discomfort with your close circle, well-wishers, or support system might help you release your stress. Remember, haemorrhoids are quite natural during pregnancy, and you're not alone in this. It can happen almost 50% to 75% of the time during your gestation.

Breathing exercises or meditation could help control stress and prevent symptoms from getting worse.

When Do You Need to Consult a Medical Expert?

You shouldn’t ignore the signs of pus or fever
If you often feel discomfort or the inflammation worsens
If you often feel weak, less energetic, and sleepy
If home remedies fail to improve your situation

Your doctor may recommend safe cures to help you feel better. They may be suppositories, topical ointments, or, in rare instances, a little intrusive procedure after giving birth.

Emotional & Social Reflections

Facing haemorrhoids with persistent bleeding and discomfort? Well! The issue isn’t just physical. It may mess with your mental and emotional health, too. You may feel embarrassed, stressed, or annoyed, especially since talking about it feels weird.

Pregnancy is already an emotionally taxing journey, and persistent discomfort can make you feel anxious or lonely. These feelings are quite natural but very important to address.
To relieve stress and get emotional support, discuss these things with your loved ones.
Pregnancy and haemorrhoids are a common scenario. So, getting in touch with others going through the same situation can help you normalise the experience.
Meditation, prenatal yoga, or gentle exercises can ease your anxiety and discomfort.
Including your partner in small actions like keeping track of symptoms or helping with warm compresses can strengthen your emotional support.

Haemorrhoids are normal during pregnancy, but you cannot overlook the signs of constant bleeding. Easing the pain by taking relevant precautions, observing symptoms, and consulting a doctor can help you both physically and emotionally. Haemorrhoids can be managed with proper care, which reduces the stress of the pregnancy journey.

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 Persistent Bleeding in Pregnancy Haemorrhoids Should Be Checked

Does everyone get haemorrhoids during pregnancy?
Not everyone will experience them. But research states that up to 75% of pregnant women develop haemorrhoids due to physical and hormonal changes.
If bleeding persists, could it hamper my baby’s growth?
Major blood loss may have an indirect effect on your physical well-being, impacting pregnancy. However, bleeding cannot directly harm the baby. It is still best to consult your physician if such a scenario occurs.
Is it safe to use over-the-counter haemorrhoid treatments during pregnancy?
Some topical treatments are safe. But before using any medication during pregnancy, seek medical advice.