FAST & FREE 📦 2-DAY SHIPPING!*
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
## 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
## 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 headquarters 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. Listenin
