Remedies For Hemorrhoids During Pregnancy
November 9, 2009
Hemorrhoids can occur at any age. However, it is seen that women are extremely susceptible to hemorrhoids during pregnancy, especially during the third trimester of pregnancy and after delivery.
Causes of hemorrhoid during pregnancy
Several factors are responsible for developing hemorrhoids during pregnancy. Constipation, a common problem during this time, puts excess pressure on the veins of the anus. This causes inflammation of the veins, developing hemorrhoids. Increase in the progesterone level during pregnancy is believed to increase the risk of constipation during this time. High progesterone level promotes relaxation of the veins, making them prone to inflammation.
In addition, progesterone tends to slow down movement of food through the gut, aggravating constipation. During pregnancy, the growing uterus exerts pressure on the veins present in the pelvic region and the inferior vena cava, which receives blood from the lower limbs. The increase in pressure on these veins slackens the flow of blood returning from the lower limbs of the body. As a result, pressure on the veins in the pelvic region increases. This causes inflammation of the veins that develops into hemorrhoid.
Hemorrhoid during pregnancy remedies
To cure hemorrhoids, you should cure constipation by increasing intake of fiber rich vegetables, fruits and whole grains. Regular intake of psyllium seed husk would help to ease your bowel movement, curing constipation and healing hemorrhoids. You can also cure constipation by drinking prune juice daily. To reduce the pain and discomfort caused by hemorrhoid, you can apply ice pack to the anus, as often as possible throughout the day. Soaking in a warm water bath can help to reduce the pain.
Herbal sitz bath is often recommended for treating hemorrhoids. Alternating warm and cold treatments could help to reduce the hemorrhoids. To reduce pressure on the veins of the anus, avoid sitting for a prolonged period. Soak cotton pads in witch hazel and apply it on the affected area. Always use fragrance free moistened wipes for wiping the anus. Always consult your doctor before using an over the counter hemorrhoid medication during pregnancy. If the hemorrhoid itches, you can apply baking soda paste on the affected area.
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