PREGNANCY DAYS For most pregnant women, carrying a baby to term is largely a mysterious process. This section helps new parents answer some of the most important questions about pregnancy and childbirth.

Hemorrhoids

• Cause
• Tips to feel comfortable
• How will it get treated?

These are nothing but dilated and enlarged blood vessels in and around the rectal areas. It may show up for the first time during pregnancy. These may be painful especially during or after opening of your bowels, when they sometimes bleed and are often itchy.

CAUSE

• Because of increased blood volume and pressure
• Aggravated by constipation common in pregnancy
• Obesity may be a predisposing factor
• Because of hormones, the veins and the valves are relaxed causing more stasis and symptoms.
• Any family history with similar problem is a high risk factor

Tips to feel comfortable

1. It is better to sit on something soft.
2. Do not stand for a long time.
3. Drink plenty of water and eat plenty of fruits.
4. Using stool softeners and keeping constipation at bay helps
5. Eat a well balanced fiber rich diet with plenty of fluids.
6. Applying ice packs or applying a cold compress made by soaking a flannel in a bowl of cold water.
7. Take regular gentle exercise to improve your circulation. Swimming is very good.
8. Over the counter medication such as tucks and anusol are helpful. You can also soothe the pain and irritation by using an aqueous cream available over the counter

How will it get treated?

The problem is self resolving after delivery. In few cases with excessive bleeding, or non reducible hemorrhoids, you may have to consult your doctor for further management. The problem may appear to be aggravated immediately after delivery but is self resolving a week later.