Hemorrhoids may appear during pregnancy or after giving birth. They may be painless, itchy or downright painful. Hemorrhoids develop as a result of the side-effects of pregnancy such as constipation, increased pressure on the pelvic area, or the strain of pushing during labor.

What are hemorrhoids?

Hemorrhoids are like varicose veins; blood vessels that have become unusually swollen, and appear in the rectal area. They can be internal or external. They range in size: if they are not swollen they can be felt as a small wart, but if they have become swollen they may reach the size of a grape. The symptoms may include: rectal bleeding, itching and acute pain, depending on the degree of inflammation.

Causes

Hemorrhoids may appear at any time during pregnancy -even after giving birth- for several reasons. One of the most common reasons is constipation and the strain exerted during bowel movements. This affects the veins in the area, which can become swollen. Constipation is common in pregnancy; even in the first trimester, due to the effect hormones have on the digestive tract.

Pregnancy hormones relax the tissues of the digestive tract so the passing of food through the walls is slower than usual. When food remains longer in the intestine, it releases more gas (making you feel bloated).  Furthermore when feces remain that extra time in the digestive tract moisture is lost. As a result feces harden and may cause constipation.

Further along in the pregnancy, the pressure that the growing uterus exerts on the pelvic area may cause hemorrhoids. Just like varicose veins appear in legs due to bad circulation, the same occurs to the veins that bring blood flow to the rectal area. Some women might even develop varicose veins in the vulva.

It is also common for hemorrhoids to develop postpartum, due to pushing during delivery. These hemorrhoids might be especially uncomfortable if you require stitches in the vaginal area. 

Fortunately it's a temporary condition and there is treatment available.

How to prevent hemorrhoids

Hemorrhoids are sometimes unavoidable during pregnancy; nevertheless there are some steps you can take to delay them or relieve the symptoms. 

• Drink plenty of water. Water keeps feces hydrated and makes it easier for them to go though the intestine and thus avoids the strains that bring about hemorrhoids.

• Exercise. Exercise promotes movement in your intestinal tract and this helps feces go through more easily, counteracting the effects of pregnancy hormones.

• Eat foods high in fiber. Fiber makes it easier for food to go though the intestine. Foods like wheat bran are very good for this, and don't cause gas. 

• Avoid being seated for long periods of time. Poor blood circulation in that area can cause hemorrhoids. 

• Do Kegel exercises daily. Besides strengthening the muscles in the pelvic area for giving birth, it will help you prevent hemorrhoids.

Relief for hemorrhoids

If your hemorrhoids have become swollen, you will probably feel very uncomfortable. There are many things you can do to get relief. Your pharmacy carries medication to treat hemorrhoids, but you must be careful because these meds might contain cortisone, which is not recommended during pregnancy. Talk to your doctor before using these products.

There are more natural ways to get relief:

• Apply ice. Bags of frozen peas are very useful because they adapt to any shape.

• Try alternating cold and warm treatments in a sitz bath.

• Avoid scented or colored toilet paper that may further irritate the area.

   

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