Here is a topic that is rarely discussed—and one you’d probably rather avoid during pregnancy and after childbirth: hemorrhoids . Unfortunately, they’re far too common to ignore. This inflammation can be very uncomfortable and can also appear suddenly. It occurs more often during pregnancy, as bowel transit (especially constipation) and blood flow change significantly during this time. We’re here to help you understand what’s happening and learn how to relieve symptoms and get rid of them.

What are hemorrhoids?

Everyone has hemorrhoids: they are vascular cushions, meaning veins located around the anus. They sit in the anal canal. There are three hemorrhoidal channels and therefore three sets of hemorrhoids. These pads can become inflamed, causing hemorrhoid flare-ups or hemorrhoidal disease. .

Hemorrhoids can be internal or external. When they’re internal, they may be inflamed but painless, and can cause some bleeding when you go to the toilet. When hemorrhoids are external, they tend to be more painful and are located around the anus. Generally, hemorrhoids are not serious and go away after a few days. .

This condition affects up to 38% of pregnant women and 20% of women after childbirth. During a pregnancy, the rate drops to 4%. According to the SNFCP (French National Society of Colo-Proctology), it is very common.

What are the causes of hemorrhoids?

Sometimes, internal hemorrhoids swell so much that the cushions become trapped in the anal canal, where they are compressed by the sphincter . This is what’s known as hemorrhoidal disease: the cushions become inflamed and protrude at the anus. This can be painful and may bleed. Blood flow is impaired, which can lead to thrombosis, meaning a blood clot becomes lodged. This is most often external.

During pregnancy, blood volume increases , which can lead to swelling of the hemorrhoids. During childbirth, pushing can cause them to protrude. If the cushions are compressed, inflammation and thrombosis may then occur.

The main factors are as follows:

• Hemorrhoids most often appear during the 3rd trimester of pregnancy, as the weight of the uterus puts pressure on the vascular cushions. Blood circulation in the area is less efficient and can therefore pool there.

• Constipation during and after pregnancy can trigger a flare-up.

• Hormonal changes.

• A difficult or prolonged childbirth.

• The likelihood of developing hemorrhoids increases with age, genetic predispositions, obesity, etc.

Rest assured, hemorrhoids are very common during and after pregnancy, but they’re often not serious and usually temporary.

What are the symptoms of hemorrhoids?

Several symptoms may suggest a hemorrhoid flare-up, such as a small lump at the edge of the anus, irritation or itching around the anus, pain, rectal bleeding, greasy stools, or even sudden stress. If you have any doubts, consult your doctor, who can make the correct diagnosis and advise you on the best course of action to help you feel better as quickly as possible.

How to treat hemorrhoids?

In most cases, hemorrhoid flare-ups resolve on their own. However, treatments can help relieve pain and support healing. Flare-ups can sometimes last longer, which is why a little extra support can be helpful. In some cases, a doctor’s intervention may also be necessary.

Ideally, focus on prevention. In particular, avoid constipation, stay active to stimulate slower intestinal activity during pregnancy (a simple walk is enough), relax when you have a bowel movement, and avoid straining too much.

The treatment of intestinal transit problems

As previously mentioned, transit problems can cause inflammatory hemorrhoids to appear. . In addition, if you experience constipation or diarrhea during a flare-up, the pain can be very intense. A good nutrition during pregnancy is important, so it is generally recommended to drink plenty of water—at least 2 liters per day—and to eat fiber if you are constipated (fruits, vegetables, whole grains). Doctors advise against laxatives during pregnancy. Don’t hesitate to discuss this with your doctor, gynecologist, or midwife, who can guide you.

Treatments to cure hemorrhoids

If you suspect you’re experiencing a hemorrhoid flare-up, it is important to see a doctor or a midwife . Depending on your situation, the healthcare professional may prescribe an appropriate treatment, such as suppositories or a cream. If you are in a lot of pain, your doctor may also advise paracetamol to help relieve it. Consulting a doctor is important, because blood in the stool or anal pain can also be signs of other, more concerning conditions. In rare cases, medication alone may not be sufficient, and other methods may be offered.

Some natural tips

There are also some more natural methods that can improve your comfort during a hemorrhoid flare-up:

• Applying a cold compress wrapped in fabric to help relieve pain.

• Maintaining good intimate hygiene after a bowel movement to prevent irritation and inflammation.

• Sitz baths with an oak bark extract for about ten minutes to soothe the area.

• Using a seat cushion to relieve pain (the same as those used after an episiotomy )

If you’re prone to hemorrhoids, you’re not alone. It can be a difficult time, especially during pregnancy or the postpartum period—when you really don’t need one more thing to deal with. Most of the time, hemorrhoids disappear on their own , but don’t suffer in silence. Talk to healthcare professionals who can prescribe relief. You can also find our article on all those things they don’t tell you about childbirth and postpartum .