Modifying your diet and habits can significantly reduce hemorrhoids during and after pregnancy. But for hemorrhoids you experience during pregnancy, Dr. Eyvazzadeh says you may want to consider the following: Thankfully, we’re here to help with advice and vetted over-the-counter hemorrhoid medications to help relieve discomfort and pain. And, if you’re also experiencing postpartum hemorrhoids from delivery, don’t worry — you can certainly use these products after baby is born, too. How we chose the best products for pregnancy hemorrhoids We spoke with Dr. Eyvazzadeh to learn what causes hemorrhoids during pregnancy and what hemorrhoid relief products are safe to use while pregnant.• Hemorrhoids are varicose veins in or around the rectum that can be itchy and painful, especially while sitting or pooping. During pregnancy, these swollen, twisted veins are usually caused by poor blood flow and increased pressure within your lower pelvis, says Aimee Eyvazzadeh, M.D., a board-certified OB-GYN. And it’s no surprise that you might experience postpartum hemorrhoids, too.

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This pressure could be due to the growing fetus, pushing during labor or differences in bowel movements [during pregnancy],” Dr. Eyvazzadeh says. “Increased progesterone levels can cause slowing of the gut and less frequent bowel movements or constipation, which could cause more hemorrhoids.” Medication commonly given during labor can cause constipation and hemorrhoids,” says Dr. Eyvazzadeh. She advises patients to start taking a stool softener a few weeks prior to their due date to try and avoid constipation and unnecessary straining before delivery, but you’ll want to ask your doctor if that’s right for you When should I be worried about hemorrhoids during pregnancy? Just note that like any supplement you take during pregnancy, it’s best to reach out to your health care provider first to make sure that it is the best solution for you. Along with products you can apply topically, Dr. Eyvazzadeh recommends a warm bath for instant relief. Just that sensation of warmth and the pressure off of your pelvis can do a lot to relieve tension. But not everyone has access to a bathtub and not everyone who is pregnant feels comfortable getting in and out of a bath, which is exactly where a sitz bath comes in handy. Drinking plenty of fluids and eating a high-fiber diet has been shown to reduce your chances of constipation, which can be one of the culprits behind pregnancy hemorrhoids. Dr. Eyvazzadeh recommends having bowel movements that are not too hard and not pushing too much to get things out — which is easier said than done if you’re struggling to get enough fiber in your diet. Enter: Metamucil.And although the dosage is pretty high, moms noted that they’re small and easy to swallow. Many said that they found incorporating Metamucil into their diet helped soften their stools so they weren’t having painful bowel movements any more. One What to Expect mom called it a “lifesaver” while another said, “It’s honestly the only thing that has given me any sort of relief.” Get regular exercise, especially cardio activities like walking or swimming, which can increase blood flow and help prevent hemorrhoids• Just note that this bath is designed to fit directly on the bowl of your toilet, not the seat. Some reviewers pointed this out as others thought the bath was too wide. Typically, yes, hemorrhoids during pregnancy tend to go away after delivery. But don’t think that it’s as instant as “baby out, hemorrhoids gone,” because hemorrhoids can still happen within one month postpartum. Although this cushion is said to be used for episiotomies and postpartum relief, many reviewers said it is best for hemorrhoids. Moms and moms-to-be loved how versatile it is, with one person calling it “heaven sent.” Aside from the effectiveness of this donut pillow, many people called out how discreet it is as a major plus. Because it’s inflatable and foldable, pregnant people were able to carry it around in their purse which came in handy when having to sit somewhere for a long time.

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Avoid sitting for long stretches of time by moving around to take the pressure off the veins in your pelvic area•You can’t really go wrong with any of the Metamucil fiber supplements, but the capsules are an easy on-the-go solution with just two ingredients in each pill, so you’re getting as much fiber as possible without additives. Some What to Expect Community moms found it easier to take the capsules than the drink mix if they had a sensitive stomach. Although hemorrhoids aren’t typically a cause for concern, hemorrhoids that worsen despite lifestyle changes and over the counter treatments may mean it’s time to talk to your doctor. Possible surgical treatment after pregnancy may be discussed. And if you notice any bleeding, speak with your doctor. Even though it could be a normal symptom of hemorrhoids or an anal fissure, it’s better to be on the safe side. Many women don’t think about getting a portable, donut-shaped cushion until the postpartum period. But taking pressure off of your perineal area can benefit you long before baby is here.