HEDI - Hemorrhoids

About half of all pregnant people suffer from discomfort caused by hemorrhoids. Hemorrhoids are collections of vessels that are usually located between the rectum and the anus. They often dilate in the course of pregnancy and move outward. This is usually associated with itching, burning and wetness. Bleeding during bowel movements or when wiping is also possible. You should talk to your doctor or midwife if you are suffering from hemorrhoids. Hemorrhoids can be treated easily.

Hemorrhoids and their function

Everyone has hemorrhoids. This vascular plexus is normally located inside the body and, together with the sphincter, is responsible for controlled elimination. The anal sphincter muscle holds the vascular cushion of the hemorrhoid inside the body and ensures that it is filled with blood. The swelling of the hemorrhoids keeps the stool inside the bowel. When we go to the toilet, we can consciously relax the sphincter. Then the vessels swell and the way out is clear. This allows the stool to be excreted.

Hemorrhoid difficulties during pregnancy

Pregnancy hormones make your body relax. Tissue becomes softer and wider. Your hemorrhoids now have more blood supply and become larger. When pressure in the abdomen is higher than the strength of the sphincter over a long period of time, the hemorrhoids come out. This may be associated with burning, itching, wetness, or bright red bleeding around the anus. During pregnancy, the weight of the baby may also be the cause. Constipation can also cause hemorrhoids to shift out of place. Many people push hard and for a long time to get rid of their excretions and thus also push out the hemorrhoids. Heavy pushing during childbirth can also lead to problems with hemorrhoids. In general, older people are more often affected by issues with hemorrhoids than younger pregnant people. This also applies to people who have already given birth to one or more children.

Prevention and treatment

Anything you can do about constipation will also help you avoid problems with hemorrhoids. You should eat foods that contain a lot of fiber. These include, for example, oatmeal, peas and lentils or products made from whole grains. Fresh fruits and vegetables are also good for you. Be sure to drink regularly. And remember to get enough exercise so your bowels stay active. You can also exercise the muscle that closes off your bowels as a preventative measure. It's part of the pelvic floor. Try to consciously contract or tense up the muscles in your pelvic floor and then relax. The best way to do this is to sit somewhere quiet. If you are already struggling with discomfort, herbal ointments, suppositories and sitz baths can also help. You can get these remedies over the counter at the pharmacy. Please consult your doctor or midwife about this. You can also ask a pharmacist. These people know best which remedy is suitable for you. Hemorrhoids usually disappear on their own after childbirth. Surgery advised only in rare cases is. In that care, surgical procedures take place no earlier than two months after giving birth.

Hemorrhoids

Hemorrhoids and their function

Hemorrhoid difficulties during pregnancy

Prevention and treatment

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