It may not be something you want to talk about at parties (or anywhere), but constipation and hemorrhoids are certainly a regular part of pregnancy. Here are some ways to make it go away.
Okay, it’s bad enough that you’re pooped (as in “tired all the time”) — now you can’t poop (as in “constipated all the time”) and as a result, you are not only bloated, gassy, majorly miserable, and chronically cranky — you end up with a major pain in your butt!
What are Hemorrhoids and Why Are They Common During Pregnancy?
Hemorrhoids are painful, swollen veins in the anus and rectum area. They typically range from the size of a pea to the size of a grape and can be inside the rectum or protrude through the anus. Hemorrhoids can be just itchy making you only slightly uncomfortable – or downright painful. In extreme cases they can cause rectal bleeding, especially during a bowel movement.
Constipation During Pregnancy Is The Main Culprit
How to relieve constipation during pregnancy
You need to understand that the main reason behind hemorrhoids is constipation.
Why do pregnant women get constipated more than average?
Just as other pregnancy symptoms, it does have a purpose. Namely, during pregnancy, progesterone causes the smooth muscles of the large bowel to relax, making them sluggish — and allowing food to hang around longer in the digestive tract. This allows additional time for nutrients to be absorbed into your bloodstream. However, if you are not eating a healthy diet full of fiber, it will likely cause “a major traffic jam” of waste products in your colon, with nothing going anywhere anytime soon.
Another reason for your problems is your expanding uterus. It takes up valuable space normally occupied by your bowel, leaving it less space to go about its business. And as if that wasn’t enough, the iron-rich prenatal vitamins you’re taking every day may also be contributing to the clog.
Tips for Relieving Constipation During Pregnancy
* Drink more water. Eight full glasses of fluids (water, vegetable, fruit juice, green smoothies, broth, etc.) each day will keep solids moving through your digestive tract at an impressive rate and keep your stool soft (and easier to pass). Some swear by prune juice, since it’s a mild laxative. Try to drink some when you’re really clogged, and if you have trouble by itself or blended in a smoothie. Drink some hot water and lemon. They’ll help stimulate peristalsis, those intestinal contractions that help you go.
What can I do to treat hemorrhoids during pregnancy?
* Drink green smoothies. Read my recipes for green smoothies – they are an easy way to add more natural, soluble fiber to your diet. They are rich in fiber and will help you eliminate waste.
* Other foods rich in fiber include whole-grains (avoid white flour, white rice, refined cereals, pastas, breads and such), beans, and peas. Aim for 25 to 35 grams of fiber each day (you can read food labels if you want, but there’s no need to do the math — just choose lots of high fiber foods).
* Avoid taking excessive supplements. Many of the supplements that are recommended for pregnant women (prenatal vitamins, calcium, and iron supplements) can also contribute to constipation.
* Don’t use over the counter laxatives or stool softeners. I know it’s tempting, and the commercials make it look like an easy (and speedy) way to spell relief, but not all laxatives and stool softeners (especially herbal or homemade ones) are safe for use during pregnancy.
* Get exercise — I know you feel tired and heavy, but it doesn’t have to be anything hard on your body. A brisk walk, or a swim in the local pool every day will do.
* And don’t hold your bowel movement. When you need to go — go. Promptly. Holding it in can weaken your bowel muscles, making it harder to push out the poop. Remember, you need to save your pushing for labor!
What can I do to treat hemorrhoids during pregnancy?
To relieve the discomfort of painful hemorrhoids during pregnancy:
* Soak in warm water. Fill the tub with plain water and soak several times a day.
* Apply ice packs or cold compresses to your anus several times a day to help relieve swelling.
* Keep moving. Sitting for long periods of time puts pressure on the veins in your anal and rectal area. If you must sit, take frequent breaks.
* Apply witch hazel to your anal area. Soak cotton pads and apply. Change the pads frequently. Witch hazel is available over-the-counter at most pharmacies.
* Keep your anal area clean to prevent itchiness. You may find that pre-moistened wipes will be more comfortable than toilet paper. Choose brands that don’t contain perfumes or alcohol — or use medicated wipes made specially for people who have hemorrhoids.
* If nothing works, try an over-the-counter hemorrhoid remedy. Ask your doctor to recommend a suppository or hemorrhoid cream that’s safe to use during pregnancy.
Questions? Comments? Suggestions?
I will write more about this topic soon, as I feel I only scratched the surface.
In the meantime, if you have any questions or comments – leave them for me below in the Comments section.
Also, read more tips on how to get pregnant fast, how to have a girl, and what not to eat when pregnant.
Questions? Comments? Suggestions?
I will write more about nutrition pregnancy and beyond soon, as I feel I only scratched the surface.
In the meantime, if you have any questions or comments – leave them for me below in the Comments section.
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