Delivering a child may be the single most challenging and testing time in a mother's life. Heck, dealing with hemorrhoids is a tough task all on its own. So what's it like when both of these difficult times coincide?
As you can imagine (or perhaps know firsthand), it can be cause for a lot of added stress during the pregnancy process. While most women suffer from hemorrhoids for the first time during pregnancy, those of you with a history of hemorrhoid occurrence are more likely that pregnancy will provoke a flare up once again.
But whatever the case may be, feel comfort in the fact that you are not alone, and there are simple dos and don'ts that will undoubtedly aid you in the tough time.
So now we know: Hemorrhoids during pregnancy often come hand in hand.
But what exactly is it about pregnancy that causes hemorrhoids, and what can you do about it?
Pregnancy promotes hemorrhoids in a variety of ways. Primarily, as your uterus grows with the passing trimesters, extra pressure is placed upon surrounding pelvic and rectal veins. In return, the flow of blood from the lower to upper body is hampered, and may cause swelling and inflammation in veins below the uterus.
Another common condition associated with pregnancy is constipation. As you as aware, constipation is a leading aggravator of hemorrhoids. It leads to straining during bowel movements, contributing to the accumulating pressure on veins and weakening of surrounding veinal walls.
Dos and Don'ts During Pregnancy
Luckily, impeding a hemorrhoid flare up during pregnancy is not impossible. At the very least it is easy to manage the pain and discomfort of your piles by following and avoiding certain habits.
- Avoid Constipation: Do your best to avoid constipation! Be sure to have a healthy intake of both fiber and water, as hydration and fiber both help to loosen your stool and avoid straining during bowel movements. Fruits and Vegetables are great sources of fiber.
- If You Have To Go... GO! Be sure to listen to the natural urges of your body. If you don't have to go, then don't stress and don't strain! Likewise, if your body tells you its time, don't fight the urge.
- Sleep On Your Side: As you'll have noticed by now, hemorrhoids are all about pressure. Sitting for long periods of time or simply sleeping face up can increase the amount of pressure being applied on rectal veins.
- Practice Kegel Exercises: Kegel exercises can be extremely effective in improving circulation in the pelvic area, decreasing the likeliness of blood clots. Also, they help strengthen muscles surrounding the anus.
- Manage Your Stress Levels: Hemorrhoids are also stress-induced, and, as you know pregnancy has its ups and downs. Breathing exercises, meditation, and keeping a light mood are essential in maintaining stress
- Sitz Baths: Have routine Sitz baths throughout the day. By sitting in warm water for 10-15 minutes a couple times a day, you can get substantial relief from pain and itching, as well as improve circulation in the pelvic region.
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