It is quite common for pregnant women to develop hemorrhoids in the later stages of pregnancy. Pregnancy puts considerable pressure on your blood vessels and this can cause hemorrhoids in itself. Often straining to push during labor will cause hemorrhoids to become worse. Keep reading for tips and tricks for managing this uncomfortable condition.
If you keep your anal area clean, you will be less likely to develop hemorrhoids. After each bowel movement, use pre-moistened towelettes instead of plain toilet paper. The warm sitz bath can relieve the swelling and the pain that is associated with the hemorrhoids. Soak in the bath for 20 minutes or more.
One of the major causes of hemorrhoids is excessive straining during evacuation. Eating fewer processed foods and downing plenty of water can make it easier to pass stools. Squatting can also help in passing bowel movements without straining. As you sit on your toilet, put a small stool beneath your feet. Interestingly, hemorrhoids are not very common in places where squatting is the more traditional way of evacuating the bowels.
One tip to ease hemorrhoid pain is to alternately apply a cold pack and a heat pack. By swapping between the two, you should be able to reduce the size of the hemorrhoid and encourage healing. You should apply ice to the area for 10 minutes every day, and then follow that with heat for approximately 20 minutes.
Consume fiber-rich foods, and drink plenty of water in order to soften feces. Softening your stool can help prevent or relieve hemorrhoids by creating less strain. To get softer stool, try eating fruits such as papaya, watermelon, or grapes. You can also soften your stool by eating more fiber-rich vegetables, such as cabbage. Keeping yourself hydrated with plenty of water can also increase the effects.
Following this advice will lead you towards healing and relief. If you are aware of different treatments, you can treat hemorrhoids effectively. With the proper tools at your disposal and a good attitude, you can be pain-free before you know it.
