How to Poop with Hemorrhoids: Self-Care Tips

Hemorrhoid-friendly bathroom habits can make bowel movements far less painful. Here's how to go without making your hemorrhoids worse.

The Right Way to Poop with Hemorrhoids

1. Use a Footstool

A Squatty Potty or any 7-inch stool raises your knees above your hips, straightening the colon. Result: less straining, easier passage.

2. Don't Hold It

When you feel the urge, go. Holding back makes stools harder and worsens hemorrhoids.

3. Don't Strain

If nothing's happening in 2-3 minutes, get up and try again later.

4. Limit Toilet Time

Max 5 minutes. Sitting longer puts pressure on hemorrhoidal veins.

5. No Phone on Toilet

Scrolling extends sitting time. Studies link smartphone use to hemorrhoid risk.

6. Apply Numbing Cream Before

Revivol-XR with 5% lidocaine before BM can make passage much less painful.

7. Lean Forward Slightly

Reduces pressure on the perineum.

What to Do AFTER

• Don't use dry toilet paper — use moist wipes or peri bottle
• Pat dry, don't rub
• Apply hemorrhoid cream
• Sitz bath if very irritated

Foods to Make Pooping Easier

• Pears, prunes, berries
• Oats and whole grains
• Beans and lentils
• Lots of water (8+ glasses)
• Stool softener if needed

When to See a Doctor

• Heavy bleeding
• Inability to have a BM despite needing one
• Severe pain that doesn't improve
• Hard, painful lump

FAQ

Why does it hurt so much?

Pressure from passing stool against inflamed hemorrhoids causes pain.

Best fast relief?

Lidocaine cream before, sitz bath after.

For painful BMs, Revivol-XR at hemorrhoid.com.