Hemorrhoids: One of the Most Dreaded Parts of Pregnancy

I'm just going to come out and say that Hemorrhoids are one of the most dreaded parts of pregnancy for not just new moms but seasoned moms as well. For those who deal with it, it's a new experience and it is not just uncomfortable but concerning.

What Are Hemorrhoids?

If you are one of the lucky ones that have never had them I can explain it a bit, essentially Hemorrhoids are swollen veins in the lower rectum. They make it super uncomfortable to have a bowel movement and even sitting can be affected.

During pregnancy a lot of people experience constipation which furthers the discomfort. Once they're finally able to have a bowel movement it is extremely painful.

Hemorrhoids and constipation are a few of the pregnancy symptoms that people aren't quick to share that they're experiencing but it's common NOT normal.

The Constipation-Hemorrhoid Cycle

Constipation and Hemorrhoids are related and contribute to the same cycle.

You're in pain so you delay a bowel movement which worsens constipation which then increases the amount of stool and hardens it so when you do go to the bathroom it's more strain on the rectum causing more pain which makes you more hesitant to have a bowel movement.

Prevention and Relief Tips

So if it's common but NOT normal what can we do to prevent having to deal with this constipation, hemorrhoid cycle?

1. Hydration! Hydration is key to eliminating waste. It helps facilitate something called Peristalsis which allows the stool to navigate out of the colon.

2. Fiber intake, eating high fiber foods like leafy greens, citrus fruits, beans and more can be super helpful. A great rule of thumb is 25% insoluble fiber and 75% soluble fiber. Insoluble fiber moves the poop and soluble fibers absorb the water to create the poop.

3. Avoid LAXATIVES! Yes it might seem appealing to find quick relief but laxatives can affect the signals the colon gives to our bodies that it's time to go so over time it can contribute to constipation and also dehydration.

4. Proper pooping posture! This is one of the most essential tips! A Squatty Potty is a tool that you rest your feet on while on the toilet, it elevates your legs and that adjusts the anal rectal angle allowing stool to leave the body with more ease.

5. Stop Straining! Do not, I repeat DO NOT hold your breath and push as hard as you can to get stool out. This pressure not only applies to the colon but all of the internal organs and can also contribute to hemorrhoids and anal fissures.

Seeking Professional Help

6. See a Pelvic Expert Physical Therapist

Seeing a Pelvic Expert Physical Therapist for constipation or Hemorrhoids might feel unnecessary but often times the root cause of these issues is a "hypertonic pelvic floor" which is essentially a tight and fibrous pelvic floor that prevents the pelvic organs from optimal function.

A pelvic expert will manually address these internal muscles to eliminate the fibrous tissue such as scar tissue or adhesions. They will also utilize a modality called Visceral Manipulation which restores the natural flow and location of each of the internal organs, improving your ability to poop.

The pelvic floor is responsible for sexual function, birth and eliminating waste. It is 100% normal to seek out treatment for these issues, don't suffer in silence. The human body needs maintenance and sometimes it might feel like issues regarding our sexual organs need to be dismissed or it's embarrassing to have concerns but a Pelvic Expert is unphased and knows how much issues like these can affect your quality of life.