Will haemorrhoids go away after pregnancy?

Yes, in most cases, they diminish and fade away within the following few weeks post-childbirth as hormone concentrations return to normal and venous pressure decreases.

Can I use over-the-counter creams for haemorrhoids during pregnancy?

Not without checking with your doctor. Not all creams are safe in pregnancy, though your physician can recommend which products to use.

Can pushing during childbirth make haemorrhoids worse?

Yes, the pushing strain may result in aggravation of existing haemorrhoids or new ones. Nevertheless, they tend to recover slowly once they are delivered under adequate care.

How Pregnancy Hormones Relax Veins and Trigger Haemorrhoids

Pregnancy is often described as magical, but let’s be honest, it’s also full of surprises your body never warned you about. Haemorrhoids can be described as one of such surprises. Whether you have been experiencing some discomfort or have observed some minor blood leakage during a bowel movement, you are not alone. Haemorrhoids may occur in up to 35-50% pregnant women, particularly towards the end of the third trimester.

What Exactly Are Haemorrhoids?

Haemorrhoids are swollen veins in your lower rectum or around your anus. You can think of them as varicose veins, but in a different part of the body.

There are two main types:

Internal haemorrhoids- These exist within the rectum and their presence is seldom painful, but can result in bleeding.
External haemorrhoids- These are located beneath the anal skin, may be painful, itchy, and swollen.

Haemorrhoids can be mild and minor, or, on some occasions, chronic and painful. The good news? They are controllable and can become better after birth.

Why Do Pregnancy Hormones Relax Your Veins?

Progesterone is a hormone which is secreted into your body once you conceive, as it relaxes your muscles and your blood vessel walls. This relaxation enhances blood circulation to your uterus, helping your growing baby.

Nevertheless, veins all over your body are not left out, and the process of vein development necessarily involves them as well. When the veins lose tension, blood flows more slowly, which may cause stagnation in the lower body, resulting in swelling and pressure, particularly in the lower limbs and rectum.

Add to that:

Larger blood volume: Pregnancy causes your body to produce an excess of 40-50% of the blood in comparison to when you were not pregnant.
Pressure from the uterus: The growing baby can push against the lower body's pelvic veins, reducing blood flow to the lower extremities.
Constipation: A characteristic of pregnancy due to decreased digestion rate and the use of iron supplements, difficulty passing stool increases pressure on the rectal veins during defecation.

When Do Haemorrhoids Usually Occur?

During the third trimester, the largest amount of haemorrhoids develops due to your baby being larger and increasing the pressure on your veins, which become more compressed. They could also take place after giving birth, especially after delivery through the vaginal passage or pushing.

What Symptoms Should You Watch For?

Haemorrhoids can range from mildly uncomfortable to painful. Look out for these signs:

Rash or itch at the anus
Anal pain or swelling
Red blood stool
A lump near the anus

These symptoms are not dangerous but rather unpleasant. However, consult your doctor when the symptoms or blood loss become more severe.

Can Relaxed Veins During Pregnancy Be Prevented from Causing Haemorrhoids?

Hormonal changes can not be completely prevented, but the pressure on your veins may be relieved. Here’s how:
1. Eat a high-fibre diet: Include fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lentils. Fibre softens your stool and makes it effortless to pass.
2. Stay hydrated: Consuming at least 7-8 glasses of water each day is essential for maintaining smooth digestion.
3. Do not sit too long: Spending hours in super comfortable positions, such as sitting on the toilet, places undue strain on your rectal veins. Walk frequently and take a short walk.
4. Exercise gently: The circulation of blood and pressure in the veins improves with light exercises such as walking, swimming, or prenatal yoga.
5. Sit on a footstool when passing a stool: You can minimise straining during bowel movement by raising the feet with the help of a footstool.
6. Manage constipation: If you are still constipated, speak to your doctor about a safe stool softener when pregnant.

What Can You Do If You Already Have Haemorrhoids?

Whether you are already suffering discomfort, there are safe methods of reducing it:

Use cold compresses to reduce the swelling
Have a warm bath 2-3 times per day
Wash and dry the area carefully, but do not use harsh soaps or brushes
Remember to sleep on your left side to lessen pressure on the pelvic veins

Be cautious and seek your doctor's advice regarding the usage of creams or medicines, as some may not be appropriate during pregnancy.

When Should You See a Doctor?

Contact your doctor in the case of the following symptoms:

Continuous or excessive rectal bleeding
Severe pain or swelling
Infection, such as pus, fever, or increasing irritation, is present
Haemorrhoids not responding to home care

Emotional & Social Aspects

Addressing haemorrhoids might be embarrassing, but keep in mind, you are not alone. It is quite a popular pregnancy problem. Be open with your partner or doctor about your symptoms. With support on your side, you see it is quite easy to stay calm and take good care of yourself. Stress management also assists in the regulation of bowel movements and comfort level.

What To Do Next: Your Quick Checklist

Eat more fibre and drink plenty of water
Avoid sitting for too long
Try gentle daily movement
Use warm baths and cold compresses as needed
Don’t ignore symptoms; talk to your doctor early

Pregnancy hormones are essential in developing your baby, yet they also loosen up your veins, usually excessively. You can avoid or control them through feeding the body well, engaging in physical activity, and taking care of your body. Keep in mind, the majority of pregnancy haemorrhoids go away soon after childbirth, as a result of childbirth, simple care, and time.

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 How Pregnancy Hormones Relax Veins and Trigger Haemorrhoids

Will haemorrhoids go away after pregnancy?
Yes, in most cases, they diminish and fade away within the following few weeks post-childbirth as hormone concentrations return to normal and venous pressure decreases.
Can I use over-the-counter creams for haemorrhoids during pregnancy?
Not without checking with your doctor. Not all creams are safe in pregnancy, though your physician can recommend which products to use.
Can pushing during childbirth make haemorrhoids worse?
Yes, the pushing strain may result in aggravation of existing haemorrhoids or new ones. Nevertheless, they tend to recover slowly once they are delivered under adequate care.