quick clicks

twins today articles

twins today q&a

community & groups

research baby names

prepare a birth plan

content channels

ip channel rss feeds

read birth stories

read parenting stories

recommended books

e-newsletters

safety recalls

ip diaries

ip store

mom of the month

dad of the month

editor's letter

letters to the editor

A Pain in the ...

Hemorrhoids During Pregnancy

By Katherine Bontrager

"If the constipation is not improving with diet changes alone, consider an over-the-counter product like Konsyl or Metamucil, which adds fiber to the stool and helps prevent constipation," says Dehn. "Or ask your provider about other remedies such as Colace, a stool softener. And as difficult as it might be, try not to strain with bowel movements; pushing can lead to hemorrhoids. Instead, try to get some regular exercise to help stimulate bowel movements. It doesn't have to be strenuous; a quick walk around the block can really help."

But what if, despite all best attempts, the symptoms begin to show? "Treatment during pregnancy is usually conservative and focused on relieving symptoms, especially pain control," says Dr. Berens. "The reason for this is that symptoms will often resolve. Common therapy includes the recommendation for dietary changes and increased fiber. Fiber has been shown to reduce the chances of persistent symptoms such as pain and bleeding in pregnant women. Other therapies such as local treatments to treat pain and swelling are frequently recommended."

Among those local treatments are a small ice pack covered with a thin layer of cloth (pillowcase thin) applied to the area to decrease the swelling and inflammation. "Tucks pads will help with the pain," Dehn adds. "To shrink the hemorrhoids and help them go away faster, consider an over-the-counter remedy like Preparation H. If that isn't working, then ask your health care provider to prescribe another cream, foam or suppository to help. These all have small amounts of hydrocortisone in them, which are considered safe while breastfeeding and help decrease the inflammation and swelling."

*Name changed to protect privacy.

Want to see more?

• Spotting During Pregnancy: When Moms-to-be Should Worry
• Pregnancy Nutrition From A to Z: A Comprehensive List of Nutrition Issues for Moms-to-be
• Liquid Health: Smart Nutrition for Thirsty Moms
• Talk about it!

Found 2 comments
Displaying all 2 comments below