Did you know that in other parts of the world, hemorrhoids are called piles? It seems appropriate, as anyone who has had a hemorrhoid knows it feels like a pile of something!
If you’re facing the challenge of giving birth with piles, you’re not alone, as many pregnant women experience this condition.
Hemorrhoids are just varicose veins of the rectum and anus.
They are more common during pregnancy for a few reasons: your blood volume has expanded, which means your vascular system has to expand too.
And just like a garden hose that has too much pressure, weak spots start to bulge a little. Add the weight of a baby in your pelvis, which causes some restrictions to blood flow, and you’ve got the perfect conditions for PILES!
I know what you are thinking—who cares how they form, you just want them gone, right?
Well, usually they do go away after the birth, but until then, we need to figure out how to make this as easy on you as possible.
Practical Tips for Managing Piles During Pregnancy
Although giving birth with piles can be uncomfortable, there are ways to manage the symptoms and make the experience more comfortable.
Witch Hazel Wipes for Hemorrhoid Relief
Add a generous dose of witch hazel right into a package of Water Wipes (these are baby wipes with nothing but water on them).
There you go! Extra large Tucks pads! You can use them after each bowel movement to clean, or keep them in the refrigerator and tuck one against your hemorrhoids when they bother you.
On that note, saturate cotton balls with witch hazel and freeze them on a cookie sheet. Anytime you need some relief, just press one against that ‘roid and let it defrost.
Maintaining Comfort When Giving Birth with Piles
You are not going to like this one, but it is the most important thing you can do.
After you clean your bum with the wipes, you need to lubricate your finger and place any hemorrhoids that are hanging out of your butt back into your butt. I know!! I know! It’s awful. It’s painful.
But if you don’t, the blood in that hemorrhoid will never get back into the bloodstream and that hemorrhoid will only get bigger.
Lie down and push that puppy back in there. Use KY Jelly, or Preparation H. Now, as soon as you get it in, tighten your butt as tight as you can.
Hold…hold…hold…this helps shrink that tissue and move the blood from the hemorrhoid back into circulation. Speaking of Preparation H, it is safe to use in pregnancy and can definitely help.
Avoid Constipation to Prevent Hemorrhoid Worsening
Do not let yourself get constipated—water, prunes, fiber, stool softeners, magnesium, whatever it takes.
Keep your stool the consistency of soft serve ice cream. The longer you sit on the toilet and strain, the worse it will get. So, poop or get off the pot!
Fresh Potato Compress for External Hemorrhoids
Freshly grated potato applied to the outside of your anus will help to shrink the external hemorrhoids. No, you can’t use frozen hashbrowns. Thank me later.
Essential Oil Mixture for Gentle Healing
You can add 1 drop of geranium and 1 drop of cypress essential oils to coconut oil and use it instead of KY jelly or Preparation H.
These essential oils help shrink the vessels and are safe after 16 weeks.
Rectal Rockets: Relief for Severe Hemorrhoids
Rectal Rockets! Some compounding pharmacies make a magic bullet for hemorrhoids! Rectal Rockets are part Lidocaine, part Cortisone, part magic, and a whole lot of relief for severe pain.
Fastest Way to Get Rid of Hemorrhoids During Pregnancy
Women who struggle with hemorrhoids worry a lot about how they are going to push a baby out without hurting themselves.
Your midwives have seen a lot of hemorrhoids and I promise yours are not going to shock them.
During pushing, don’t be afraid to ask for counter-pressure on your butt. A cool washcloth pushed against your bum can make everything feel better, and it definitely prevents those hemorrhoids from getting worse.
With enough counter pressure, we have seen hemorrhoids be smaller after the birth than before!
Hemorrhoids are the butt of many jokes (get it?!) but truly not funny and plenty miserable. No wonder they call it ‘Roid Rage – Hemorrhoids would make anyone mad!!!
Although generally not serious, please let your midwives know if you are bleeding from your rectum when you have bowel movements. Occasionally hemorrhoids do need to be treated, and it can be done safely during pregnancy. Don’t suffer in silence!
Frequently Asked Questions
What causes hemorrhoids or piles during pregnancy?
Hemorrhoids are caused by increased blood volume and pressure on veins from the growing uterus, making them especially common during pregnancy.
Can hemorrhoids affect childbirth?
Though hemorrhoids can be painful, they typically don’t interfere with the childbirth process. Midwives can apply techniques like counter-pressure to reduce discomfort.
Are there natural remedies for piles during pregnancy?
Yes, options include applying witch hazel pads, fresh potato compresses, and using essential oils like geranium and cypress with coconut oil for relief.
What’s the fastest way to get rid of hemorrhoids during pregnancy?
Stay hydrated, avoid constipation, and use treatments like witch hazel or Rectal Rockets (from a pharmacy) for quicker relief. Speak to your birth center for personalized guidance.
Should I consult a doctor if my hemorrhoids bleed?
Yes, it’s wise to mention any bleeding to your midwife to rule out other concerns and discuss safe treatment options.
How do I prevent hemorrhoids from getting worse while pushing during birth?
Request counter-pressure from your midwife, which can prevent hemorrhoids from worsening and provide immediate relief.
Did you know we do tours every Wednesday at 11 am and Saturday at 9am?
If you want to see our beautiful birth center in person, we would love to show you around and help you decide if a home birth or birth center birth is right for you!
