Hemorrhoids affect many women during pregnancy due to various changes in the body that slow the digestive process and put pressure on the intestines. Hemorrhoids are varicose veins that occur in the rectum. When the varicose veins develop, the tissues bulge outside of the body. This can be very painful or cause bleeding and itching. Over-the-counter treatment is usually safe but should be used after consulting a health care professional.
Oral Pain Relief
An oral pain reliever is capable of blocking the pain associated with a hemorrhoid. During pregnancy acetaminophen is the recommended over-the-counter drug, states the American Family Physician. This drug, and any others, should only be used under the advice of a health care professional. It is best to take the smallest effective dose as infrequently as possible to minimize any potential risks to the mother and unborn child.
Hemorrhoid Cream
An over-the-counter hemorrhoid cream is considered to be safe for use during pregnancy. These creams contain a variety of soothing ingredients including aloe vera, vitamin E, witch hazel and phenylephrine HCl, which helps shrink the hemorrhoids. The cream can be applied between one and three times per day following a bowel movement to help fight itching, dull the burning sensation and help shrink the tissue back to its normal size.
Hemorrhoid Pads
Most hemorrhoid pads contain witch hazel, an astringent that can help alleviate itching discomfort and shrink the hemorrhoid tissues back to normal size. The hemorrhoid pads can come like wet wipes or small round disks. The American Pregnancy Association suggests purchasing witch hazel and applying it to the area. Hemorrhoid pads can be used after every bowel movement up to four times per day.
Stool Softener
Pregnant women should discuss the use of a stool softener with a health care professional. Softening the stools will not cure the hemorrhoids but it can reduce irritation until the hemorrhoid disappears. Stool softeners can also make it easier to have a bowel movement, which reduces the risk of developing hemorrhoids. Various natural fiber options, like prunes or prune juice, can be used. Over-the-counter products that are safe for use in pregnancy include fiber supplements made with psyllium husk or others recommended by a health care provider. Laxatives should only be used with medical supervision as they can irritate the intestines and cause uterine contractions or dehydrate a woman's body by causing frequent bowel movements.
