Postpartum hemorrhoids are a common and often uncomfortable condition that many new mothers experience after childbirth. While postpartum piles may resolve on their own, they can cause significant discomfort, pain, and even bleeding, making it crucial to understand when medical intervention is necessary.
Dr. Rajeev Premnath, a well-known general and laparoscopic surgeon in Jayanagar, Bangalore, explains, “Most cases of postpartum hemorrhoids can be managed by simple measures. However, professional attention needs to be sought in order to avoid complications and hasten post-partum recovery.”
Dr. Rajeev Premnath is a specialist in managing postpartum hemorrhoids and other associated conditions and provides empathetic and personalized treatments to all his patients. He has vast experience in laparoscopic surgery and proctology procedures, and ensures that all new mothers get effective management of hemorrhoids developed after childbirth. His patient-friendly management protocol focuses on addressing the problem while also taking preventive measures, ensuring patients receive the best possible care to return to their daily lives quickly and comfortably.
In this blog, we will explore when postpartum hemorrhoids need medical attention, common symptoms, treatment options, and tips for managing the condition effectively.
What Are Postpartum Hemorrhoids?
A chronic anal fissure is a tear or crack in the skin of the anal canal that persists for more than six weeks. Initially, fissures are acute, causing sharp pain during and after bowel movements. However, when a fissure doesn’t heal within this period, it becomes chronic, often associated with the development of a skin tag, muscle spasm, or scar tissue.
Why Do Hemorrhoids Occur After Childbirth?
A number of causes contribute to the formation of postpartum piles:
- Increased Pressure:
The pressure exerted by the weight of the baby during delivery is applied to the lower rectum veins.
- Constipation:
A lot of young mothers also develop issues with constipation due to hormonal changes, dehydration, and pain associated with childbirth, which can lead to straining during bowel movements.
- Prolonged Labor:
Hemorrhoid development can be caused by a lengthy delivery or by the use of instruments such as forceps and/or vacuum.
- Hormonal Changes:
During pregnancy, the hormone progesterone causes the veins to relax, making them more prone to swelling.
Not sure if your discomfort is caused by hemorrhoids? Let’s look at the typical signs of postpartum hemorrhoids.
Common Symptoms of Postpartum Hemorrhoids
The symptoms of postpartum hemorrhoids can vary depending on the severity of the condition. Here are the most common signs:
- Pain or Discomfort: Especially when sitting, during bowel movements, or when wiping.
- Itching: This involves a constant feeling of itching around the anal region.
- Bleeding: Sudden presence of bright red blood on the toilet paper or in the toilet bowl following a bowel movement.
- Swelling: Swelling around and/ or a lump around the anus that may be painful to the touch.
- Mucus Discharge: There could be times when mucus discharge is noticed from the rectum.
When should you seek medical help for hemorrhoids after pregnancy? Here are signs that require professional attention.
Signs That Indicate Medical Treatment May Be Needed
Though hemorrhoids occurring in the postpartum period might go away on their own with home remedies, certain symptoms might suggest you need to seek medical care:
- Severe Pain: When there is severe pain associated with hemorrhoids that cannot be relieved by over-the-counter treatments or home remedies.
- Ongoing Bleeding: In the event that there is consistent or heavy bleeding, particularly after bowel movements.
- Thrombosed Hemorrhoid: If a clot forms in the hemorrhoid, it may cause intense pain and swelling.
- Inability to Control Bowel Movements: If the hemorrhoid becomes prolapsed (extends outside the anus), it makes it difficult to control bowel movements
- Symptoms Don’t Improve: If you’ve tried at-home treatments for several days or weeks without improvement.
Looking for medical treatment for hemorrhoids after pregnancy? Let’s explore available options.
Medical Treatment Options for Postpartum Hemorrhoids
If postpartum hemorrhoids don’t resolve with home remedies, medical treatments may be necessary. Here are some common treatment options:
- Prescription Medications: A doctor may prescribe stronger topical creams or ointments to reduce inflammation and relieve pain.
- Minimally Invasive Procedures:
o Rubber Band Ligation: A band is placed around the hemorrhoid to cut off its blood supply, causing it to shrink.
o Sclerotherapy: A solution is injected into the hemorrhoid to shrink it.
o Infrared Coagulation: A device is used to burn the hemorrhoid tissue, causing it to shrink.
Concerned about how to recover from hemorrhoid treatment? Let’s explore the recovery process and ongoing care.
Recovery and Ongoing Care After Treatment
The recovery period after undergoing treatments for post-partum hemorrhoids takes a few weeks. These are some of the things that happen during recovery:
- Pain Control: Pain medications may be prescribed by the doctor or over-the-counter pain medications may also be taken for pain management.
- Dietary Modifications: A high fiber diet, fluid intake, and prevention of constipation play an important part in avoiding further problems.
- Sitz Baths: Immersing the affected area in warm water for a period of 10-15 minutes a few times a day will help ease the pain and also reduce swelling.
- Avoiding Straining: Straining should be avoided during defecation, as it might cause additional irritation of the rectal lining.
While recovery can take time, most women experience significant improvement after treatment. Follow-up appointments with your doctor will help ensure the condition is properly managed.
Conclusion
Postpartum hemorrhoids can cause significant discomfort, but with the right treatment, most women find relief and recover fully. If left untreated, hemorrhoids after pregnancy can lead to further complications, so it’s important to recognize the symptoms early.
While many cases improve with self-care, medical treatment may be necessary in some cases. With the right guidance from seasoned experts like Dr. Rajeev Premnath, treatment, and care, mothers can get back to enjoying their new journey without the discomfort of hemorrhoids.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can postpartum hemorrhoids go away on their own?
Yes, many postpartum hemorrhoids improve with home remedies like diet changes, topical treatments, and warm baths.
What are the signs that postpartum hemorrhoids require medical treatment?
Persistent pain, heavy bleeding, thrombosed hemorrhoids, or prolapsed hemorrhoids are signs that medical treatment may be needed.
How long does it take for postpartum hemorrhoids to heal?
Recovery can vary, but most women experience relief within 1-2 weeks with proper care, though more severe cases may take longer.
What should I avoid if I have postpartum hemorrhoids?
Avoid straining during bowel movements, prolonged sitting, and low-fiber foods, as these can worsen constipation.
Can I have hemorrhoid surgery after childbirth?
If hemorrhoids are severe and other treatments don’t work, surgery may be considered, but this is typically a last resort.
How can I prevent hemorrhoids after pregnancy?
Maintaining a healthy diet, staying hydrated, and avoiding constipation are essential for preventing postpartum hemorrhoids.
Can hemorrhoids affect bowel movements after childbirth?
Yes, postpartum hemorrhoids can make bowel movements painful and may cause temporary difficulty with bowel control.
Disclaimer: The information shared in this content is for educational purposes and not for promotional use.