Haemorrhoids are no fun for anyone, but are especially uncomfortable for a pregnant woman. Haemorrhoids are a particular type of varicose vein that occur only in a person’s rectal area. They get large and swollen and can be painful, itchy and even bleed. These nasty veins are even more common during pregnancy. In fact, a pregnant mother is most likely experiencing them for the first time.
Since the uterus grows and places pressure on the veins in the pelvic area, it slows the blood flow returning from the lower part of the body. This adds to the pressure on the veins already under attack from the pelvis which ultimately is the reason for the haemorrhoids. Constipation is another culprit of being pregnant that may contribute to the appearance of haemorrhoids.
So what’s a pregnant mum to do? Once the haemorrhoids have surfaced you could try applying an ice pack, soaking in warm water, alternating cold and warm applications, applying a topical cream to numb the area, and utilizing a soft and unscented product to clean yourself after a bowel movement.
However, if there are no haemorrhoids yet and you would like to keep it from happening, there are ways to avoid them altogether. Kegel exercises will increase circulation. Avoid constipation by eating plenty of fibre and drinking enough water. Do not hold in your bowel movements and avoid straining yourself. And avoid sitting or standing for long periods of time so that you are not prohibiting blood flow from circulating.
