How To Ease Hemorrhoids Throughout Pregnancy and Postpartum
Mamas I thought we already went through enough during pregnancy and birth. Nausea, tender breasts, swollen feet, heartburn, backache, round ligament pain, having to pee ALL THE TIME, and the list goes on and on. But now, you may have to deal with hemorrhoids. Ugh.
What Are Hemorrhoids?
Hemorrhoids are swollen veins in the lower part of the anus and rectum, and are typically caused by increased pressure and strain. No wonder several of us mamas get them. They can range in size from as small as a raisin to as big as a grape. Also keep in mind, that it is just as common for moms to get them during pregnancy as it is after birth.
They are most definitely irritating, but can also be painful. But the good news is that most tend to go away after some at home treatment. Hallelujah! I am saying most, but not all, so keep that in mind! Hemorrhoids lasting several months or more, may need to be treated by a doctor.
Some symptoms caused by hemorrhoids may include:
- Itching
- Irritation and pain
- Swelling
- Bleeding during bowel movements
How To Ease Hemorrhoids Throughout Pregnancy and Postpartum
Soak The Area
Soothe the pain and irritation by soaking in a warm bath for 15 minutes a couple times a day! If you are taking a full warm bath, add 1 cup of epsom salts. If only running a few inches of water, add 2-3 tablespoons. Make sure the water is not too hot, as it could make your hemorrhoid more painful.
You can also use a sitz bath, a small tub that you place over the toilet, so you are only soaking your bottom. Hemorrhoids, or not, sitz baths are a great way to relieve soreness after child birth.
Avoid Straining
Straining during a bowel movement only puts more pressure on your rectal area. Be mindful not to strain or bear down when sitting on the toilet. Also, when you feel the urge for a bowel movement, do not wait.
Add Fiber To Your Diet
Fiber helps to loosen your stool. A diet high in fiber can help treat constipation. Some foods high in fiber are fruits, veggies, nuts, beans, and whole grains. You can also try these fiber supplement powder sticks, which are not only convenient but are great for digestive health. Although, if you are pregnant or breastfeeding consult with your doctor first, about what fiber supplements are safe.
Keep The Area Clean
Keep the area clean, in order to help prevent any further irritations that may get in the way of the progress of healing. This may include rinsing the area with warm water or using fragrance free wipes. Try to avoid using toilet paper, use the wipes mentioned or a peri bottle filled with warm water to clean the area. If using wipes make sure they are unscented, as scented ones may irritate the area further!
Stay Hydrated
Drinking plenty of water, also helps in avoiding constipation. As new moms are prone to experience constipation after birth. If you find yourself to be constipated, laxatives and stool softeners may be an option. Consult with your doctor about what ones are safe to take during pregnancy or breastfeeding.
Apply A Cold Pack
Applying a clean cold compress will also help lessen the painful swelling. Although, do not apply the cold compress directly to your skin. Wrap it in a cloth or towel before placing it on your skin.
These compresses can also be warm compresses. Apply the compress to the area for approximately 10 minutes a few times a day. Alternate between the cold and warm compresses.
Use Pain & Itch Relieving Ointments
Apply an ointment that works to relieve itching, pain, burning, bleeding, discomfort, along with shrinking the hemorrhoid. Y'all I am telling you if you have a hemorrhoid, do not mess around and order this stuff immediately! I am telling you it works instantly! The discomfort, and the itching, oh the ITCHING, was relieved within a couple minutes after using this cream! Although, you may want to check with your healthcare provider if it is safe to use, especially if you had an episiotomy.
Use Witch Hazel
Shrink the hemorrhoid with an astringent known as witch hazel. Use these witch hazel cleansing pads to soothe and shrink the hemorrhoid.
I was also a HUGE fan of Tucks Pads, as they are cooling medicated hemorrhoidal pads with witch hazel.
Lie Down
Avoid sitting or standing for long periods of time in order to lessen the pressure on your rectal veins. Lie down when you're reading, watching TV, nursing, etc.
Pain Killers
For momentary relief, you can take Tylenol (acetaminophen) or Motrin (ibuprofen), as both are said to be safe for breastfeeding mothers. Steer away from aspirin.
When To Call Your Doctor
If you are being persistent with your at home treatment, you should experience steady improvement of your hemorrhoids within a couple weeks. However, if your hemorrhoids are continual or becoming worse, or if you experience excessive rectal bleeding, you will definitely want to talk to your doctor. In extreme, although rare cases, surgery may be required.
There you have it mamas! With a little bit of at home care, you should be sitting better in no time. 🙂 If you are a mama that experienced hemorrhoids, and got rid of them in no time. I would love to hear what remedies you used to get rid of them in the comments! It may help another mom, and we are all about moms helping moms here! 🙂
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