femme souffrant d'hémorroïdes avant son accouchement

Hemorrhoids Before Childbirth: what to do

April 28, 2024

Hemorrhoids before childbirth are a common and sometimes painful problem that can significantly affect the quality of life of those who suffer from them.

Fortunately, there are simple, natural ways to soothe these problems, and using cold is one of the most effective remedies. In this article, we'll explore how cold can be beneficial in relieving hemorrhoids and allowing you to return to a comfortable life.

What is a Hemorrhoid ?

Before discussing the benefits of cold, it is essential to understand what hemorrhoids are. Hemorrhoids are veins located in the anal area . When they become inflamed , they can cause pain , itching, bleeding, and general discomfort . Hemorrhoids are often classified into two types: internal (inside the rectum) and external (located under the skin around the anus). Common risk factors include constipation, pregnancy, obesity, and a sedentary lifestyle.

Why do I have hemorrhoids?

The occurrence of hemorrhoids in pregnant women is a common problem of pregnancy , often attributed to hormonal changes and increased pressure on the pelvic veins.

During pregnancy, many expectant mothers may experience painful episodes of hemorrhoidal flare-ups , characterized by itching, bleeding, and intense discomfort. This condition, known as hemorrhoidal disease , is often exacerbated by frequent constipation, another common symptom among pregnant women. Fortunately, there are solutions to alleviate the symptoms, such as the use of specific anti-inflammatory drugs recommended by health professionals and also natural remedies to relieve them.

Problems with hemorrhoids

These painful episodes of hemorrhoidal crisis can have a significant impact on the quality of life of pregnant women.

Besides physical discomfort, hemorrhoids can also lead to complications such as rectal bleeding, which can be especially concerning during pregnancy.

Additionally, hemorrhoids can cause emotional discomfort, creating stress and anxiety in pregnant women who are already experiencing many hormonal and emotional changes. Pregnant women may feel embarrassed or hesitate to seek help due to the sensitive nature of the problem.

However, it's important to understand that hemorrhoids are a common medical condition, and healthcare professionals are available to offer support and solutions. In addition to medical treatments, pregnant women are advised to maintain a balanced diet rich in fiber, stay hydrated, and engage in regular gentle exercise, which can help prevent hemorrhoidal problems.

Natural remedies for hemorrhoids

Here are some natural remedies that are compatible with hemorrhoids and are compatible with pregnancy.

One of the most commonly recommended approaches is to increase fiber intake in the diet. Fiber helps soften stools, thereby reducing pressure on the anal veins and promoting easier bowel movements. Fiber-rich foods, such as fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and legumes, should therefore be a regular part of the diet.
Additionally, staying hydrated is essential to prevent constipation, an aggravating factor for hemorrhoids. Drinking enough water throughout the day is a beneficial practice for maintaining soft, easy-to-pass stools.
Some pregnant women also find temporary relief from perineal cold pockets to practice sitz baths or derivative baths in a so-called "more modern" way. However, if you have a bidet available, you are free to practice the old-fashioned way by immersing your seat in cool water for about twenty minutes.

In fact, applying cold to the area affected by hemorrhoids can be an effective way to relieve pain and inflammation. Here's how cold can help:

Reduction of inflammation:

Applying cold restricts blood flow to the affected area, resulting in reduced inflammation and providing noticeable relief from discomfort.

Pain Relief:

Cold acts as a natural pain reliever by numbing the affected area, thus reducing the sensation of pain effectively and naturally.

Decreased bleeding:

By constricting blood vessels, applying cold can help reduce bleeding associated with hemorrhoids, providing significant relief and promoting faster recovery of the affected area.