External Hemorrhoids

There is no good time for hemorrhoids, and an especially bad time to get them is when you are pregnant. However, unfortunately, more than fifty percent of all pregnant women do develop a hemorrhoid problem. If you are in that group, there are some things you can do to make yourself more comfortable, to begin healing from the external hemorrhoids, and to prevent them from coming back or becoming worse.

Many may not realize it, but when you’re pregnant, you’re responsible for the health of two people, you and your unborn child. You can take care of both of you best by using external hemorrhoid remedies and treatments that have proven to be safe for the developing baby, and at the same time offer you the results you need to feel better.

Herbs are wonderful to use, but some of them must be used with caution. Aloe vera gel and witch hazel are both safe to use while pregnant. They may be used topically to treat the sore area of your rectum. You can apply the aloe vera gel a few times a day for soothing relief that will help the damaged tissue and veins to begin healing. You can apply witch hazel to a pad, and let it rest on the area for 10 minutes a couple of times a day. This will not only feel cool, but it will also offer relief from itching and burning.

You will also want to make sure you are getting off your feet enough. The additional pressure that you have on your rectal area from the additional weight you are carrying can make the veins swell and begin to hurt. Laying down when you can, putting your feet up, and especially laying on your left side will help with your circulation and to take the pressure off that area, which is more sensitive than ever now.

Taking your prenatal vitamins may also help by preventing or getting rid of external hemorrhoids. Sometimes just getting more nutritional needs met will give you the boost you need to have proper bowel movements, good circulation, and be overall healthier. There is a chance, though, that if you take an iron supplement you may have more of a problem with hemorrhoids while pregnant. If you do need the extra support of an iron supplement, you may want to up your vitamin C intake too. This will help your body absorb the iron, and prevent you from becoming constipated- which may lead to a hemorrhoid problem.

Pregnancy is supposed to be a time of looking forward to enjoying the new life of parenting your little one. Don’t be robbed by having all your attention taken with a hemorrhoid problem. You can treat them as soon as you notice them, and you may be able to avoid them altogether by taking good care of yourself.