# Hemorrhoid Pregnancy Treatment
Pregnancy can be a difficult time for many women, often making matters that seemed minor before pregnancy into an increasingly significant issue. One such example is hemorrhoids, which can range from mildly uncomfortable to painful and even dangerous during pregnancy. However, treatments to manage and reduce the symptoms of hemorrhoids are available.
## What are Hemorrhoids?
Hemorrhoids are swollen and inflamed veins located in the anus and lower rectum, caused when extra pressure increases during pregnancy. They often result in pain, itching and bleeding, and can vary from small, external and visible to large, internal and painful.
## What Causes Hemorrhoids During Pregnancy?
There are several factors that can increase the likelihood of suffering from hemorrhoids during pregnancy:
– Straining when having a bowel movement
– Constipation
– Low-fiber diet
– Pressure from the growing uterus
– Prolonged standing or sitting
## Treatment Options
The good news is that hemorrhoid symptoms can be managed and lessened by changing certain habits and trying various treatments. Treatment options for hemorrhoids during pregnancy include:
– Eating a high-fiber diet
– Drinking plenty of fluids
– Taking warm baths
– Using medi-soaked pads
– Avoiding straining during bowel movements
– Applying topical treatments to reduce inflammation
If symptoms are severe and don’t improve with conservative treatments, a doctor may recommend more advanced treatments such as rubber band ligation, or in extreme cases, surgery.
## Safety Considerations
It is important to talk to a doctor before trying any treatment for severe hemorrhoids during pregnancy. Many over-the-counter treatments, such as topical creams and suppositories, are not considered safe during pregnancy.
## Summary
Pregnancy can cause unpleasant and uncomfortable hemorrhoid symptoms that can range from mildly annoying to severe and dangerous. However, conservative treatments such as dietary changes, avoiding straining and topical treatments can help manage the problem. It is important to consult a doctor before trying any treatments for severe symptoms.
What are the risks associated with hemorrhoid surgery during pregnancy?
1. Increased bleeding: The increased pressure on the pelvic veins can cause an increase in the amount of bleeding during the hemorrhoid surgery.
2. Premature labor: Hemorrhoid surgery can increase the contractility of the uterus and potentially result in premature labor.
3. Infection: Any type of surgery carries its own risk of infection. With a pregnant patient, the concern for infection can be increased due to a weakened immune system.
4. Anesthesia risks: It is highly recommended to use local or regional anesthesia for hemorrhoid surgery during pregnancy. There is increased risk associated with general anesthesia but this method is typically avoided as much as possible.
5. Hematoma: Hematoma (i.e. a collection of blood in one location) can develop after surgery and can lead to further complications.
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