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Hemorrhoids in Pregnancy: Symptoms by Sue Bristol, R.N. If you are pregnant and suffering from hemorrhoids, you are not alone. Unfortunately hemorrhoids are fairly common during pregnancy. It's too bad that this most wonderful event in life can be marred by the misery of hemorrhoids, but it happens and you need to keep everything in perspective. Hopefully this IS an otherwise wonderful time in your life. The hemorrhoids can be dealt with using a variety of techniques. They will probably get much better after the baby has come but what can we do in the meantime? Let's talk! For right now we're going to talk mostly about symptoms that you are probably having. It is of crucial importance that your doctor confirm that the symptoms you are experiencing are indeed a result of hemorrhoids rather than something else that is more serious and needs to be addressed. The symptoms you are most likely having with your hemorrhoids are related to an increase in pressure in the pelvic region. This is because of the extra weight you are carrying and the increase in blood supply to the pelvis. While these are normal occurrences during pregnancy, they can cause stretching and twisting and congestion of the rectal vessels. Once the pelvic pressure has increased there is a much greater likelihood that you will become constipated. Constipation in turn almost always leads to straining with bowel movements which contributes to the already increased pressure and the cycle begins. You are most likely experiencing pain, burning, itching, and bleeding. The pain and bleeding associated with hemorrhoids are caused by trauma to the blood vessels from the hard, dry stools of constipation. The burning and itching are usually associated with a condition called pruritis ani in which the skin surrounding the anus has been exposed to fecal material and pus which in turn sets up a breeding ground for infection. It is difficult to keep this area clean because of the tenderness. Be aware that if you suddenly develop pain and swelling in the anal region it may be the result of a ruptured hemorrhoid which creates a clot, called a thrombus. The anal area may appear as a "purple ball" and create the sensation that you are sitting on something. Often this event follows strenuous exercise, lifting, coughing, or straining at a bowel movement. Have your doctor take a look because a clot can lead to situations that need medical attention. While external hemorrhoids can be seen, you can't see internal hemorrhoids. Your doctor would have to look for them with a lighted medical instrument. The main symptom of internal hemorrhoids is bright red blood after the passage of stool. The blood may be seen in the bowel movement itself, in the toilet water, or on the paper. The blood is caused by irritation of the vessels in the rectum, usually by constipation or straining. Often internal hemorrhoids cause a feeling that the bowel is not empty. It is not uncommon that folks with hemorrhoids suffer from emotional depression or social anxiety. It's embarrassing to talk about and sometimes people start avoiding social events because of itching, burning, pain, or fear of drainage. Please don't suffer needlessly. Take charge of your hemorrhoids...don't let them take charge of you! Until next time, be well!
Do you want to learn more about getting rid of your hemorrhoids? If so, download my brand new free e-book "Getting Rid of Hemorrhoids" here (things you can do to eliminate Doctor/Hospital visits)
HemorrhoidCure101.com
Sue Bristol, R.N.
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