1. Hemorrhoids and Birth
Hemorrhoids are swollen veins in the rectum or the anal canal caused by too much pressure in the veins in the rectum. Pushing a baby out during labor exerts pressure on those veins and can cause hemorrhoids or exacerbate a pre-existing condition.
2. Improve Your Diet
It's important that you eat nutritiously after you deliver, especially if you're breastfeeding. Eat foods high in fiber, such as whole grains, fruits and vegetables. Also make sure you're getting plenty of healthy fluids, primarily water. You'll know you're drinking enough water if your urine is clear.
3. Take a Sitz Bath
A Sitz bath is a small container that you fill with water to soak the hips and buttocks areas. You can purchase the containers at medical supply stores. If you don't want to do that, try filling your tub with a little warm water and sitting in it for about 10 minutes twice a day. Many experts recommend adding baking soda to the water to relieve the itching of hemorrhoids. Some people will add herbs, but always check with your doctor first.
4. Wipe Properly After a Bowel Movement
After a bowel movement, wipe from the front to the back. Avoid using toilet paper (or use unscented) if possible. Chemical free baby wipes, Tucks pads or even disposable washcloths are preferable. Some people will use a peri bottle, which is a small squirt bottle that you use to clean the vaginal and rectal area after birth. Speak to your care provider to find out if they recommend using the bottle.
5. If Hemorrhoids Are Severe
Talk to your care provider if you're experiencing a great deal of pain from your hemorrhoids. Your doctor will probably recommend a stool softener. There are also prescriptions he can give you or he may recommend an over the counter treatment. Talk to your doctor before using an over the counter treatment, to make sure it won't make your hemorrhoids worse.
