Postpartum hemorrhoids are a common problem experienced by mothers after giving birth. They occur when the blood vessels around the rectum and anus swell due to excessive pressure.
What Are Postpartum Hemorrhoids?
Hemorrhoids are swellings of blood vessels in the rectum or anus area.
Hemorrhoids after childbirth are a common problem experienced by many women. Often, hemorrhoids that begin during pregnancy will go away on their own after the mother gives birth.
But unfortunately, almost 25% of women will experience hemorrhoids even after 6 months of giving birth. This condition may improve after giving birth, but some will still experience symptoms from time to time.
How Hemorrhoids Occur
During pregnancy, the growing uterus puts pressure on the veins in the pelvis which can slow blood flow and cause swelling of the veins in the rectum.
Apart from that, frequent constipation during pregnancy can cause the mother to strain during bowel movements, further increasing the risk of hemorrhoids.
The normal birth process also involves significant pressure on the rectal area which can trigger or worsen hemorrhoids.
Are Hemorrhoids Painful?
Yes, hemorrhoids can cause pain, especially during or after defecation.
Besides pain, other symptoms include itching, bleeding and discomfort in the anal area.
Causes of Postpartum Hemorrhoids
Women are prone to hemorrhoids (piles) or node vein (varicose veins) after childbirth for several reasons. Among them are:
1. Stress During Pregnancy
The growing uterus and baby will put pressure on the veins in the back andinferior vena cavaThis is the main vein on the right side of the body that drains blood from the lower body.
Pressure on these veins can slow the return of blood, causing the veins under the uterus to enlarge.
2. Hormonal Changes
The increase in the hormone progesterone during pregnancy will also relax the muscles and vein walls. The result is that the veins are easily swollen and the digestive tract is slower, causing the mother to become constipated.
It will also cause the walls of blood vessels to become weaker and swell easily, making pregnant women more likely to experience hemorrhoids.
3. The Birth Process
Mothers can also get hemorrhoids when they push to deliver their baby during labor . The pushing process during labor puts a lot of pressure on the blood vessels in the anus and rectum.
This pressure can cause existing hemorrhoids to worsen or trigger new hemorrhoids.
4. Constipation
Hormonal changes during pregnancy can slow down bowel movements, causing constipation. In addition, taking iron supplements can also slow down the digestive system.
Hemorrhoids can also occur as a result of abstinence practices such as not drinking enough water and not eating certain fruits or vegetables.
Symptoms of Swollen Hemorrhoids After Childbirth
- Frequent constipation .
- Bleeding during bowel movements. The blood that comes out is usually bright red. The blood is not mixed with the stool.
- Pain, burning, heat and itching in the anal area.
- There are smooth bumps in the anus.
However, bleeding like this can also occur for other reasons.
Therefore, mothers are advised to see a doctor to make sure it is not a more serious illness such as colorectal cancer.
How Long Will It Take for Hemorrhoids to Heal?
The healing time for postpartum hemorrhoids varies from person to person. With proper treatment and care, mild hemorrhoids usually heal within a few days to a few weeks.
However, if symptoms persist or worsen it is important to seek medical advice.
15 Ways to Treat After Childbirth
If you are experiencing hemorrhoids after giving birth, we suggest you follow these 19 tips to overcome them:
1. Sitz Bath
Soak the anal area in warm water for 10-15 minutes several times a day. Warm water helps increase blood circulation, reduce swelling and relieve pain.
For better effects, add Epsom salt to the water as it can help reduce inflammation and speed up healing.
2. Cold Compress
Use an ice pack wrapped in a clean cloth and place it on the affected area for 10-15 minutes. This can help shrink swollen blood vessels and reduce pain and discomfort.
Do not put ice directly on the skin as it can cause frostbite.
3. High Fiber Intake
Eat fiber-rich foods such as fruits, vegetables, legumes, and whole grains. Fiber helps soften stools and facilitate bowel movements, thus reducing the risk of constipation, which can worsen hemorrhoids.
If necessary, you can also take fiber supplements such as psyllium husk.
4. Drink Enough Water
Make sure you drink at least 8 glasses of water a day to ensure your body stays hydrated. Adequate water helps soften stools, reduce pressure on the rectum and prevent constipation.
Besides plain water, you can drink unsweetened fruit juice or vegetable-based soup to increase hydration.
5. Avoid Straining During Defecation
Try not to strain while defecating as excessive pressure can make hemorrhoids worse. If you have difficulty defecating, try changing your position by placing your feet on a small stool to mimic a more natural squatting position.
If you feel the urge to defecate, don’t hold it in, do it immediately. The stool that is held back will be more difficult to pass.
6. Light Exercise
Physical activity such as walking for 20-30 minutes a day can help increase bowel movements and prevent constipation. Exercise also improves blood circulation and helps reduce pressure on the blood vessels around the rectum.
7. Use of Soft Tissues
Use soft, unscented toilet tissue or wet wipes to clean the anal area. Rough tissues or those containing chemicals can cause irritation and make the pain worse.
Another alternative is to use warm water and wipe with a soft cloth.
8. Correct Sitting Position
Avoid standing or sitting for too long as this will only increase the pressure on the veins in the anus. If you have to sit for a long period of time, use a donut pillow or a circle-shaped cushion to reduce pressure on the anal area.
9. Topical Medication
Apply a special hemorrhoid cream or ointment recommended by your doctor. These creams usually contain ingredients such as lidocaine (to relieve pain) or hydrocortisone (to reduce inflammation).
Do not use medication without doctor’s advice if you are still breastfeeding.
10. Use of Stool Softeners
If constipation is a major problem, your doctor may recommend the use of a stool softener such as docusate sodium to help soften stool and reduce straining during bowel movements.
Do not take laxatives without your doctor’s advice as they can cause diarrhea and increase discomfort.
11. Personal Hygiene
Keep the anal area clean and dry to prevent infection. Use warm water to wash after defecation and wipe gently with a clean cloth or soft tissue.
Do not use soaps that contain fragrances or chemicals that can irritate the skin.
12. Avoid Spicy Foods
Spicy foods can stimulate the digestive system and cause discomfort during bowel movements, thus worsening hemorrhoid symptoms.
Try to avoid foods that are too spicy, highly seasoned or that can cause gas.
13. Use of Natural Herbs
Some natural ingredients like witch hazel can help reduce inflammation and provide a soothing effect on the hemorrhoid area. Witch hazel can be used in the form of a cream or lotion that is applied directly to the affected area.
Apart from that, aloe vera also has anti-inflammatory properties that can help reduce pain and swelling.
14. Adequate Rest
Make sure you get enough sleep and avoid excessive stress. Stress can worsen digestive problems and increase the risk of constipation.
If possible, ask family members to help you take care of the baby so that you can get enough rest.
15. Medical Consultation
If hemorrhoid symptoms do not improve after a few weeks or get worse, see a doctor immediately. Ask your doctor about dietary supplements that can soften stools.
In more serious cases, further treatment such as rubber band ligation or minor surgical procedures may be required to remove persistent hemorrhoids.
Treating postpartum hemorrhoids requires patience and meticulous care. By following these steps, mothers can reduce discomfort and speed up the recovery process.
If you experience severe pain or excessive bleeding , do not hesitate to seek immediate medical attention.
Republished with permission from theAsianParent Malaysia
