- MEDICINE ATHENS MED4WOMAN ATHENS
- MEDICINE VOLOS MED4WOMAN VOLOS
- 2103390838
- 2421022988
Obstetrician Gynaecologist
Doctor of Medicine, University of Athens Medical School
Panagiotis Polyzos, Gynaecologist Obstetrician, is active at the Institute of Life - IVF Unit of Iaso Maternity Hospital.
Hemorrhoids can be extremely uncomfortable, although they rarely cause serious problems, and are often due to constipation. In most cases, this symptom disappears after the birth of your baby. However, if the pain is severe or you notice bleeding, you should contact your doctor, who may suggest practical solutions or prescribe ointments to relieve the symptoms.
Hemorrhoids are blood vessels in the rectal area that have become swollen. They may cause mild or painful itching, or even bleeding from the rectum, especially during bowel movements. They are a common condition during pregnancy, particularly in the third trimester.
Some women experience them for the first time while pregnant, while others who had hemorrhoids before pregnancy are likely to have them again.
In most cases, hemorrhoids that develop during pregnancy begin to subside soon after childbirth — especially if you take care to prevent or manage constipation.
During pregnancy, hemorrhoids — as well as varicose veins in the legs or even in the vulva — often occur. The progressive enlargement of the uterus puts pressure on the pelvic veins and the inferior vena cava (a large vein on the right side of the body that carries blood from the lower limbs to the heart). This can slow down blood return from the lower part of your body and increase pressure in the veins below the uterus, causing swelling.
Constipation, which is a common complaint during pregnancy, can also cause or worsen hemorrhoids. Additionally, the increased production of the hormone progesterone during pregnancy causes the walls of your veins to relax, allowing them to swell more easily. Progesterone also contributes to constipation by slowing down bowel movements.
Although hemorrhoids are more likely to occur during pregnancy, they are not inevitable.
First and foremost, it is important to prevent constipation as much as possible:
Adopt a fiber-rich diet (whole grains, fruits, and vegetables), drink plenty of water (8–10 glasses a day), and exercise regularly — even a brisk one-hour walk can help. If, despite a healthy diet and exercise, you still experience constipation, consult your doctor about taking a fiber supplement or a stool softener.
It is also advisable to use the toilet as soon as you feel the urge, to avoid excessive pressure in the rectal area.
Do Kegel exercises daily. These exercises involve contracting the muscles used to stop urination (but not during urination itself). They improve circulation in the rectal area and strengthen the muscles around the anus, reducing the likelihood of hemorrhoids. Kegel exercises also help tone the muscles around the vagina and urethra.
Avoid standing or sitting for long periods. If you have a sedentary job, try to stand up and walk around for a few minutes every hour.
Finally, prefer lying on your left side when sleeping, reading, or watching TV. This position helps relieve pressure on the inferior vena cava and rectal veins, promoting better blood return from the lower part of your body.
