What are hemorrhoids?
Hemorrhoids are not a disease at all, but rather vascular cushions that sit in your anal region and, among other things, ensure that no stool or liquid leaves your anus inadvertently. During pregnancy and during a spontaneous vaginal birth, the vascular cushions are put under a lot of strain: during pregnancy, they can be expanded and swollen due to the pressure of the child and frequent constipation, and during birth, they can be expanded and swollen due to the straining. Most people refer to them as "hemorrhoids" precisely when these vascular cushions expand and swell and cause unpleasant symptoms.
Symptoms of enlarged hemorrhoids
Enlarged hemorrhoids are unpleasant. There are different degrees of severity, which also cause different symptoms:
Grade I and II hemorrhoids: The vascular cushions are still internal and are located in the rectum. They are sometimes symptom-free and painless, sometimes they itch a little or burn slightly.
Grade III and IV hemorrhoids: In these stages, the vascular cushions protrude from the anal sphincter. Grade II and III hemorrhoids may bulge outwards during bowel movements, but then retract or be pushed back on their own. Permanently visible hemorrhoids are rare and only occur in grade IV.
Common symptoms of hemorrhoids:
- itching and burning in the anus
- Pain when sitting and defecating
- Palpable swelling and soft tissue
- Bleeding during or after bowel movements
Treating hemorrhoids during pregnancy: tips for relief
In many cases, enlarged hemorrhoids resolve on their own within a few weeks after birth. You can support this process by doing the following:
- High-fiber diet: A high-fiber diet promotes soft stools.
- Drink plenty of fluids: Drink plenty of water to aid digestion.
- Regular exercise: Physical activity can help promote digestion.
- Correct behavior when defecating: Avoid straining and try to keep your back in a rounded position. A small stool under your feet can help with this.
- Gentle hygiene: Avoid scratchy toilet paper. Use lukewarm water from the intimate shower or soft washcloths for cleaning. For external care, you can use Bum Balm from The Weeks.
- Cooling for relief: A gentle cooling sensation can often be pleasant. Wrap a compress in a cloth and cool the affected areas or apply Bum Balm straight from the refrigerator.
When should you see a doctor?
If your anus symptoms persist or worsen, you should seek medical help. Possible treatment options include special ointments or suppositories. In very rare cases, surgical removal of the hemorrhoids may be necessary. Contact your midwife, gynecologist or family doctor. A specialized area for these complaints is proctology.
