Pregnancy is an exciting time, filled with anticipation and change. One of the changes you may not have expected is hemorrhoidal discomfort during pregnancy or after childbirth.

Funny how no one seemed to mention this at the baby shower.

Symptomatic hemorrhoids is a condition where your hemorrhoids, blood vessels found in the wall muscles of the rectum and anus, are swollen, dilated, or inflamed. Pregnancy has been known to cause or trigger flare-ups of this condition, causing pain, itching, irritation, burning, and sometimes bleeding. There are a variety of reasons pregnancy can cause symptomatic hemorrhoids. For one, a pregnant woman's enlarged uterus increases pressure in the hemorrhoidal veins. Another reason, blood supply actually increases during pregnancy, raising the pressure within the veins. Additionally, a pregnant woman's hormones tend to relax the anorectal area's supporting muscles as the baby presses more and more on the veins below it. Oh, and let’s not forget that pregnancy often causes constipation, it’s no wonder why pregnancy can cause hemorrhoids.

Rest assured, pregnancy-related hemorrhoidal discomfort is not only common, it’s treatable.

How to keep your hemorrhoids healthy

You can help prevent hemorrhoidal discomfort or minimize flare-ups by making simple lifestyle changes:

Gently cleanse the area

Use Preparation H Soothing Wipes following childbirth to gently cleanse and soothe the irritated area. They fit right into your diaper bag.

Drink water

Drinking plenty of water every day can help reduce the risk of constipation and keep bowel movements soft and easy to pass, reducing your risk of flare-ups.

Eat a balanced, high-fiber diet

With your healthcare provider's approval, follow a balanced diet, rich in fiber to help prevent constipation.

Get some exercise

A little physical activity can aid in digestion and tone the supporting muscles of the anal and rectal area as well as the abdomen. With your healthcare provider's approval, walk or do other non-strenuous activities.

Do Kegel exercises

Kegel exercises help strengthen the pelvic floor as well as anal and rectal muscles after childbirth. This can aid in digestion and prevent constipation.

When you got to go, go

Holding in a bowel movement may contribute to chronic constipation. It's important to set aside time to use the bathroom.

Maintain a healthy weight

Extra weight can put more pressure on your abdomen, which increases your chances of experiencing hemorrhoidal discomfort. So, try to stay within the weight guidelines your healthcare provider sets.

Try not to stand or sit for long periods

Sitting or standing can put pressure on your rectum and cause hemorrhoidal discomfort. If you’re sitting and nursing for long periods, try other positions, such as reclining, or sitting on an O-ring cushion.

Always check with your healthcare provider before starting any diet or exercise plan.