Pregnancy and
Hemorrhoids - Finding Relief When You're Expecting
While hemorrhoids are mostly a male-dominated
condition, women are also prone to developing these
painful and swollen blood vessels in their anal and rectal
area during pregnancy. It is a known fact that pregnancy
and hemorrhoids usually go together. There are an
estimated 50% of pregnant women who suffer from this
condition annually.
Pregnancy significantly increases a woman's risk for developing
hemorrhoids. This is because the weight of the baby bears down
on the anus and vagina, putting pressure on the blood vessels
in these areas. This results in varicose veins developing in
the legs and vulva, as well as hemorrhoids appearing on the
rectum or anus.
Pregnant women undergo hormonal changes and constipation
during their pregnancy and this leads to the development of
hemorrhoids, as well. There is help for this condition,
however. Hemorrhoids are easily treatable with various home
remedies to relieve and eliminate symptoms of this
condition.
Some of these home remedies include lying on the left side
for at least 20 minutes every four to six hours. Soaking the
affected area in warm water also helps, as well as applying ice
packs to bring down the swelling.
Pregnant women should also
avoid sitting or standing for extended periods of time. If
extended sitting is unavoidable, it is best to sit on a cushion
shaped like a doughnut to relieve pressure on the anus or
rectum. Most importantly, because it will also serve to benefit
the baby, eating lots of fruits and vegetables can supply the
body with fiber and prevent constipation.
Pregnancy and hemorrhoids need not be such an interminable
and insufferable condition to endure. With the proper remedies,
pregnant women can get relief from the pain and discomfort that
hemorrhoids bring.
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