What are haemorrhoids?
Haemorrhoids, more commonly known as piles is a common complaint, especially during pregnancy when an expectant mum might be constipated and when extra strain is put on blood vessels in the bowel because of increased blood flow and compression due to increasing weight.
Also, pregnancy hormones which relax some of the body's vessels and ligaments, mean that circulation can becomes sluggish and blood can pool in the veins. If that's not enough bad news, constipation can result in straining on the loo, which brings more pressure to bear on the blood vessels. All this can result in varicose veins – and Haemorrhoids or piles are basically varicose veins which are found in or just outside the anus.
Haemorrhoids can occur in anyone of any age, but are most common, in people aged 45-54 as well as in mums-to-be.
What are the symptoms of Haemorrhoids?
Symptoms can include bleeding from the rectum, discomfort and/or itching in or around the anus and, in some cases, acute pain. Haemorrhoids can be internal or external. External Haemorrhoids protrude from the anus and can have the appearance of small bluish or red-looking grapes.
Haemorrhoids that originate inside the anus are rated in size and severity from grade one to four. Grades one and two tend to stay inside the anus or, if pushed out when you strain on the loo, shrink back on their own. Grade three can sometimes be felt as small lumps hanging out of the anus and are known as prolapsed Haemorrhoids. They can be pushed back inside with your finger. Grade four stay outside the anus and can't be pushed back in. They will probably need medical treatment. External Haemorrhoids that originate along the outside edge of the anus are rarer, very painful and will need immediate treatment.
Haemorrhoids are usually diagnosed by a digital rectal examination, where a doctor will insert a finger into your anus. In some cases, examination with a protoscope – a slim instrument with a light – may be performed for better visibility.
What are the treatments and remedies of Haemorrhoids?
There's usually not a lot that can be done to help Haemorrhoids in pregnancy as most will improve or disappear shortly after the birth. You'll be advised to increase the amount of fibre in your diet, drink plenty of fluids and take gentle exercise throughout your pregnancy. This should help to soften your stools, making going to the loo less uncomfortable.
There are also creams, ointments and suppositories that can help to reduce symptoms. Painkillers and laxatives can also help, but don't start them without consulting your midwife or doctor if you're pregnant.
In severe cases of Haemorrhoids, medical and surgical treatments may be considered but not usually in pregnancy. These include injecting a chemical solution around the Haemorrhoids to reduce the blood supply, which will eventually shrink them; 'banding' the piles to cut off the blood supply, which makes them drop off; infrared treatment; or, in extreme cases, surgical removal.
This guide
The information in this Bounty A-Z of Family Health is not a substitute for an examination, diagnosis or treatment by a doctor, midwife, health visitor or any other qualified health professional. If in doubt, always speak to a doctor.
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Further help
For health advice and information 24 hours a day, 365 days a year, the NHS offers call and web services. You can also visit NHS websites for services, health information and health news at nhs.uk
Watch this NHS video on haemorrhoids in pregnancy.
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