How To Avoid Hemorrhoids During Pregnancy

How To Avoid Hemorrhoids During Pregnancy

Avoiding hemorrhoids during pregnancy involves managing pressure, blood flow, and digestion — since growing uterine pressure and hormonal changes increase the risk. Hemorrhoids are swollen veins in the rectal area and are especially common in the third trimester and postpartum period.

Here’s how to prevent them safely and naturally:

✅ How to Avoid Hemorrhoids During Pregnancy

1. 🥦 Prevent Constipation

Constipation is the #1 trigger for pregnancy-related hemorrhoids.

Tips:

• Eat high-fiber foods: whole grains, fruits, vegetables, legumes
• Drink plenty of water: at least 8–10 glasses/day
• Use prenatal-safe fiber supplements (e.g., psyllium) if needed
• Avoid processed, low-fiber foods and excess dairy

2. 🚽 Don’t Strain When Using the Toilet

• Never force a bowel movement.
• Use a footstool to elevate your feet — this mimics a squatting position, easing pressure.
• Don’t delay going when you feel the urge.

3. 🚶‍♀️ Stay Active

• Gentle daily exercise (like walking, swimming, or prenatal yoga) improves digestion and blood flow.
• Avoid long periods of sitting or standing — both can worsen vein pressure.

4. 🛌 Sleep on Your Left Side

• This reduces pressure on the inferior vena cava, improving circulation and relieving pressure on the rectal veins.
• Use a pregnancy pillow to stay comfortable.

5. 🪑 Avoid Sitting Too Long

• Sitting for long stretches compresses rectal veins.
• Stand up and walk around every 30–60 minutes.
• Use a donut-shaped pillow or soft cushion to reduce pressure when sitting.

6. 🧴 Keep the Area Clean and Dry

• Gently wipe with unscented moist wipes instead of dry toilet paper.
• Avoid soaps or wipes with fragrance or alcohol.
• Pat dry — don’t rub.

7. 🧊 Use Cool Compresses if Needed

• If you feel swelling or discomfort, apply a cold pack for short periods (10–15 minutes).
• Safe, natural way to reduce inflammation.

8. 💊 Ask About Safe Treatments

• Talk to your OB-GYN before using any hemorrhoid creams, suppositories, or medications.
• Witch hazel pads are often considered safe for temporary relief.

🚨 When to Call Your Doctor

• Bleeding during bowel movements (especially if bright red)
• Severe pain, swelling, or protruding veins
• Hemorrhoids that don’t improve with home care

📝 Prevention Recap Table

Tip	Benefit
High-fiber diet & hydration	Prevents constipation
No straining on toilet	Protects rectal veins
Gentle exercise	Improves circulation
Sleep on left side	Reduces pressure on veins
Don’t sit too long	Prevents blood pooling
Use cold compresses	Reduces inflammation