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Answer
: Hello Rocio. Hemorrhoids are pretty common during pregnancy, especially during the third trimester. During pregnancy, your body has more blood circulating through your veins. All your veins, especially those below your uterus, become dilated. A hemorrhoid is a bulging vein from your rectum. For pregnant women, the main culprit behind the formation of hemorrhoids is constipation. Straining while moving your bowels puts even more pressure on the already dilated veins. If you do get constipated, talk to your health team about a stool softener. Drink plenty of water, take a high fibre diet and do some moderate exercises. Some other tips for reducing discomfort are:
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Keep it clean: Keep your anal area as clean as possible. Using moist wipes or medicated hemorrhoid pads are more comfortable than toilet paper.
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Lay down: Avoid sitting and standing for long periods of time, which can put pressure on the hemorrhoids.
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Let someone else do it: Avoid heavy or moderate lifting.
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Petroleum jelly: Try some petroleum jelly on the rectum to cool it off and ease bowel movements.
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Try some ice: Sitting on an ice pack may give some relief from the burning.
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Use a sitz bath: Sit in enough warm water to cover the hemorrhoids, either in your bathtub or in a sitz bath that fits on the toilet.
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Use suppositories or creams: Check with your health care team before trying any of the over the counter remedies you may find in a drugstore.
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