Avoid the ‘Roid Rage – Hemorrhoids and Bleeding During Pregnancy
Hemorrhoids and bleeding during pregnancy are some of the more uncomfortable side-effects of creating a new life. However, they do not have to be foregone conclusion. Having a child can play havoc with your body, but with a little knowledge and prevention, your pregnancy can be easy going in all ways.
More often than not, rectal bleeding during pregnancy is the result of swollen veins in and around the rectum. These are known as hemorrhoids, or piles. They are particularly common during the third trimester as the baby’s weight puts extra pressure on the pelvic veins and the inferior vena cava, the large vein that receives blood from the lower limbs. This pressure slows blood flow, putting extra stress on the renal blood vessels. Also during pregnancy the body produces more of the hormone progesterone, which causes the walls of the veins to relax therefore allowing for more swelling. Straining to pass a hard bowel movement or vigorous wiping may brake the inflamed blood vessels, causing them to lightly hemorrhage.
The increase in progesterone also slows the digestive tract, often leading to constipation. To prevent hard bowel movements, a major cause of piles, consume high fiber foods such as fruits, vegetables, and whole wheat products. To supplement your fiber intake, purchase unprocessed wheat bran. It is available at most grocery stores and can easily be hidden in other foods. Another helpful digestive regulator is water; drinking eight to ten glasses daily is encouraged. If constipation persists, ask your doctor to exchange your prenatal vitamins for a type that contains less iron. Kegel exercises are also recommended. Clench and release the small muscles around your vagina and anus twenty-five times. This keeps the muscles strong, decreasing the chance of inflamed blood vessels.
If, however, you find yourself suffering from hemorrhoids and the associated bleeding, there are a few specific treatments. Cold and hot compresses have both been shown to soothe irritation, and often are very effective when used in conjunction. Witch hazel and aloe can be used with the compresses for further relief. Another option is soaking the inflamed veins in warm water, either in the regular bathtub or a sitz bath. A sitz bath is a plastic tub that can be put on top of your toilet for easy access. They are available in most drugs stores. Medicated ointments and suppositories are obtainable, but take care to check with a medical professional before use. Only use these products for the recommended duration of time; longer use can cause further inflammation.
Be sure to discuss any rectal hemorrhaging with a physician. The other common cause of anal bleeding during pregnancy is an anal fissure; treatments for fissures are relatively similar to that of piles, but a doctor should be consulted nonetheless. Bleeding due to hemorrhoids usually clears up within a few weeks, but if it doesn’t or worsens, seek immediate medical attention.
Pregnancy is the means to a beautiful end, but the actual process can be more of a mixed bag. Along with nausea and mood swings, many mothers-to-be will have to deal with hemorrhoids and bleeding during pregnancy. But unlike nausea and mood swings, piles can be easily prevented and quickly addressed. With a little care and attention the problems of pregnancy will fade to the background, allowing the marvel of creation to take center stage!