Hemorrhoids During Pregnancy: Causes, Safe Relief & Prevention Tips (2025)

Up to 35% of pregnant women develop hemorrhoids — especially in the third trimester and postpartum.

The good news? Most are temporary — and many safe, effective treatments can help you find relief without risking your baby.

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Why Pregnancy Causes Hemorrhoids

1. Uterine Pressure

As your baby grows, the uterus presses on pelvic veins → blood pools → veins swell.

2. Hormonal Changes

Progesterone relaxes vein walls → veins stretch more easily.

3. Constipation

Iron supplements, reduced mobility, and hormonal shifts → harder stools → straining.

4. Pushing During Labor

The final push can trigger or worsen hemorrhoids.

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Safe Treatments During Pregnancy

✅ Sitz Baths — Warm water, 10–15 min, 2–3x/day
✅ Witch Hazel Pads — Tucks or generic, alcohol-free
✅ Ice Packs — Wrapped in cloth, 10 min on, 20 min off
✅ Fiber + Water — Psyllium, fruits, veggies, 2L water/day
✅ Donut Cushion — Reduces pressure when sitting
✅ Stool Softeners — Docusate sodium (Colace) — approved for pregnancy

❌ Avoid:

• Hydrocortisone creams (unless prescribed)
• Phenylephrine or decongestant-based creams
• Herbal supplements (unless approved by OB/GYN)

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Postpartum Hemorrhoids

Many women notice hemorrhoids worsen after delivery — due to pushing and hormonal shifts.

Relief tips:

• Continue sitz baths (many hospitals provide peri bottles)
• Use numbing spray (lidocaine — ask your doctor)
• Sleep on your side — reduces pelvic pressure
• Start pelvic floor exercises (Kegels) when cleared by doctor

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Prevention Tips

1. Start fiber early — don’t wait for constipation
2. Drink water before you’re thirsty — aim for 10 glasses/day
3. Move daily — even 10-min walks help
4. Don’t delay bowel movements — go when you feel the urge
5. Use footstool — squatting position reduces straining

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FAQs

Will pregnancy hemorrhoids go away after birth?

Most improve within weeks after delivery as hormones normalize and uterus shrinks. Some may persist — treat with safe methods or see a doctor.

Can I use Preparation H while pregnant?

Some versions are safe — but avoid those with phenylephrine. Use witch hazel or lidocaine versions only after consulting your OB/GYN.

Are hemorrhoids a sign of preeclampsia?

No — hemorrhoids are not related to blood pressure disorders. But if you have headaches, vision changes, or swelling in hands/face — seek care immediately.

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