FAST & FREE 📦 3-DAY SHIPPING!*
By Hemorrhoid.com | August 12, 2025
Hemorrhoids during pregnancy are more common than you might think. They’re swollen veins on or near your anus, and they can develop inside your rectum (internal) or protrude outside your anus (external). They’re an unpleasant but common part of pregnancy and usually go away after you’ve had your baby. In fact, they affect about 30% to 40% of pregnant women, particularly during the third trimester and in the first month after giving birth.
It’s important not to confuse hemorrhoids with anal fissures. An anal fissure is a tear in the lining of your anus, whereas a hemorrhoid is a swollen vein. Both can cause rectal bleeding and itchiness; however, fissures are more likely to cause episodic sharp pain, while hemorrhoids may be painless or cause a dull ache.
## What Causes Hemorrhoids During Pregnancy
During pregnancy, several factors contribute to hemorrhoids. A growing fetus puts pressure on your pelvic area and bowel, compressing the veins in your anus so they can’t move blood as easily. Your blood volume increases to support the fetus, which also makes those veins work harder. Hormonal changes slow digestion and can lead to constipation, causing extra weight in your bowel and straining when you have a bowel movement. Straining increases pressure on the veins and can cause them to swell.
## Recognizing the Symptoms
Hemorrhoids during pregnancy may not cause any symptoms, but they can lead to pain during bowel movements, itching in and around the anus, a prolapsed hemorrhoid (when an internal hemorrhoid falls outside), and bright red blood on the toilet paper or in your stool. Rectal bleeding during pregnancy is usually harmless, but because serious conditions can also cause bleeding, it’s wise to speak to your healthcare provider.
## Prevention and Lifestyle Tips
You can’t always prevent hemorrhoids, but you can reduce your risk. The Cleveland Clinic recommends building habits that prevent constipation: eat fiber‑rich foods, drink the right amount of fluids, and perform Kegel exercises to promote healthy circulation in your anus and rectum. Fiber‑rich fruits, vegetables and whole grains help soften stools, and staying hydrated allows fiber to work properly. Kegel exercises strengthen the pelvic floor and improve blood flow.
Other preventative tips include avoiding prolonged sitting or standing, taking short walks during the day, and not delaying bowel movements. Listening to your body when you feel the urge helps you avoid straining and excess pressure.
## At‑Home Relief
If hemorrhoids develop, several home treatments can ease discomfort. Experts recommend sitting in warm water for about 15 minutes several times a day, especially after a bowel movement. You can use a small sitz bath that fits over your toilet or soak in a bathtub. Warm water improves blood flow and relaxes strained muscles, providing soothing relief.
Increasing fiber intake can also help. Psyllium husk supplements increase fiber and soften stool, making bowel movements easier. Start with a small dose and increase gradually, as too much fiber too quickly can cause gas or cramping. Always drink plenty of water when taking fiber supplements.
Over‑the‑counter remedies containing lidocaine or hydrocortisone can reduce swelling, itching and pain. Options include creams, ointments, suppositories and medicated wipes. For best results, apply them right after a sitz bath. If symptoms get worse or don’t improve within a few days, see your healthcare provider.
Steer clear of unproven remedies like apple cider vinegar or tea tree oil; they can irritate sensitive skin. Avoid popping hemorrhoids, which can lead to bleeding, swelling or infection.
## When to See a Healthcare Provider
While hemorrhoids are usually harmless and go away after pregnancy, there are times to seek medical advice. Contact your provider if you notice bleeding during a bowel movement, if anal pain doesn’t improve with at‑home treatments, or if you’re considering over‑the‑counter laxatives, stool softeners, creams, oils or supplements. Your provider can ensure the bleeding isn’t caused by another condition and recommend safe treatments during pregnancy.
Take comfort in knowing that hemorrhoids are uncomfortable but not dangerous. Relieving constipation and soothing your symptoms can make them manageable. With time and good habits, they typically resolve on their own after childbirth.
## Final Thoughts
Hemorrhoids during pregnancy are common and treatable. Understanding their causes and recognizing symptoms allow you to take proactive steps to prevent and relieve them. Healthy nutrition, hydration, gentle exercise and simple home remedies can provide relief. If symptoms persist or worsen, don’t hesitate to talk with your healthcare provider for personalised care. For more tips on managing hemorrhoids, check out our guide on preventing hemorrhoids and our review of REVIVOL‑XR Hemorrhoid Treatment Cream.
