Buzz
There are countless heartwarming reasons to become a mother, such as: the joy, the anticipation of a new life, the impending parenthood,... But let's face it, pregnancy isn't always a walk in the park. One of the not-so-pleasant experiences is 'hemorrhoids'.
Basically, hemorrhoids are one of the common physiological symptoms during pregnancy. About 20 - 50% of women will experience hemorrhoids during pregnancy to varying degrees.
Why is pregnancy prone to hemorrhoids?- The increasing weight of the fetus as it develops in the uterus puts pressure on all the tissues and organs of the mother. Space becomes limited, so blood circulation to the pelvic bones of the mother slows down and becomes congested. The blood vessels in the intestinal wall swell and become stretched to the limit, causing them to weaken.
- Pregnancy hormones also cause a general loosening of tissues, making them less firm than usual and causing the veins to swell and expand.
- To supply the fetus with abundant oxygen and nutrients, the amount of blood in the pregnant woman's body can increase by over 40% compared to normal. Typically, the valves and capillaries work harder to pump blood back to the mother's heart and lungs, helping the mother receive more oxygen.
- If you have a history of hemorrhoids, the pregnancy process can cause them to develop further. The pressure in the second trimester of pregnancy also leads to the development of hemorrhoids.
Preventing Hemorrhoids:
- Stay hydrated: Drink at least 2.5 liters of water per day to keep stools soft and make bowel movements easier.
- Avoid constipation: Hardened and dry bowel movements will cause difficulties in stool evacuation. This also contributes to the development of hemorrhoids.
- Fruit juice: Mothers can use various fruit juices, herbal teas, and other liquids to avoid constipation.
- Avoid squatting for hygiene: You can place your feet on a stool when using the toilet. This will reduce pressure on the pelvic frame.
- Avoid straining during bowel movements: If you're sitting on the toilet for a while and feel unable to go or don't need to, stand up and leave the toilet.
- Dietary regime: Ensure your diet is rich in fiber and roughage. Foods like fruits, vegetables, oats, whole grain cereals,... can help shape stools and make them easier to pass.
- Avoid consuming excessive red meat, white bread, and heavily processed foods.
Do you have hemorrhoids?
- There are two types: internal and external hemorrhoids. Internal hemorrhoids won't be visible until you see a little blood on the toilet paper. External hemorrhoids will protrude from the anus resembling a grape. You can use a mirror to check, but brace yourself as it's not a pretty sight.
- During pregnancy, bleeding may occur when hemorrhoids enlarge and become stretched, but it could also be due to another cause, so if concerned, seek medical attention.
- Being overweight before pregnancy, having multiple pregnancies, retaining excess water, lack of exercise,... are also risk factors for developing hemorrhoids during pregnancy.
Treating Hemorrhoids:
- Using certain creams to minimize bleeding: However, consult with your doctor before using any type of medication or treatment method during pregnancy.
- Some types of anal lubricant creams can make bowel movements easier.
- Stool softeners can be used to soften stools and regulate bowel movements frequency.
- Bicarbonate in soda dissolved in a warm bath also helps.
- Avoid lifting heavy objects.
- Avoid scratching if you're itchy.
- Sleeping on the left side is the best position to reduce blood congestion in the anal area.
- Exercise regularly.
- Avoid excessive weight gain.
- Ensure cleanliness by using wet wipes, a shower head, or a soft cloth to enhance your comfort.
