Hemorrhoid during pregnancy is not uncommon. In fact, according to studies almost half of pregnant women, especially those who are in their third trimester, around the world have suffered or are suffering from this condition.
What are hemorrhoids? Mayo Clinic defines hemorrhoids as swollen blood vessels in and around the anus and lower rectum. This condition gives discomfort to the ones who are suffering from it. Sometimes, hemorrhoids can even be painful especially during bowel movement.
The most common cause or aggravator of hemorrhoids among pregnant women is constipation.
Constipation, according to American Pregnancy Association, affects almost 50 percent of pregnant women in the world.
Why is it common among pregnant women? It’s because of the changes of the hormones in the body of a pregnant woman. Usually, these hormones relax the intestinal muscle, and with it is the slowing down of her metabolism and bowel movement as well.
That's why Dr. Carolina Joyo, OB-Gyne and the department’s consultant at the Southern Philippines Medical Center, always reminds me to eat food that is high in fiber.
“Eat more papaya and fewer apples,” she said.
Papaya, as we know, is very rich in fiber but also is an apple. What makes them differ is the chemical that papaya contains which apples do not; the papain.
Papain is an enzyme that when combined with fiber is very beneficial in relieving constipation.
Green leafy vegetables, too, help relieve constipation as they are very rich in fiber and make your stool not too hard nor too soft.
Drinking at least three liters of water a day for those who are expecting, especially those who are taking iron supplements, will also minimize constipation.
Aside from constipation, sitting longer than usual on the toilet can also aggravate hemorrhoids. Actually, sitting, whether on the toilet or on your seat, or standing longer period of time can aggravate the condition because it puts pressure on your rectal vein. If you are needed to sit or stand longer than usual, take time to shift your position every now and then; from sitting to standing or the other way around.
And lastly, don’t put your poop on hold. If you feel you are about to go, then for Pete’s sake go to the toilet immediately. Have you experienced delaying your poop and when you let it go, it’s already too hard that you have a hard time pushing it out? That’s, aside from gross, is the most aggravator of hemorrhoids and it’s really painful.
Post script: If your hemorrhoid is already too painful that it affects your normal routine, don’t wait for miracles. Consult your OB-Gyne or doctor immediately. And never ever take medications without the consent from your OB or doctor.
(We’ll talk about hemorrhoids (again) AFTER pregnancy next time.)
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The writer does not owe anybody a secret whether she’s suffering from hemorrhoids. But one thing she can tell: Her zodiac sign is Cancer and not “almuranas.”
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