Hemorrhoids are a common problem during pregnancy, typically becoming more severe as the pregnancy advances and the weight of the growing baby presses downward. Hormonal changes, changes in bowel habits, and increased blood flow in the area can contribute to hemorrhoids and their painful symptoms, too.
The good news is that Michael H. Tarlowe, MD, is skilled in relieving hemorrhoid discomfort during pregnancy, offering both conservative and surgical solutions, depending on your symptoms and other factors. In this post, learn how he can help you finally find some relief from those swollen, painful hemorrhoids.
Many women find conservative treatments are all they need to successfully manage their hemorrhoid symptoms. These steps include options like:
It’s also a good idea to avoid long periods of sitting or standing and to avoid straining on the toilet when moving your bowels, habits that can make your symptoms a lot worse.
Many women find relief by applying an icepack to the area for 15-20 minutes a day. Be sure to wrap the pack in cloth to prevent damage to your skin. Soaking the area in warm water for 10-15 minutes several times a day is also highly effective. Use your bathtub or a basin designed for sitz baths.
For most expectant moms, conservative treatments combined with some simple lifestyle changes are all it takes to dramatically improve hemorrhoid symptoms and avoid more invasive options — at least until after delivery.
But sometimes, hemorrhoid symptoms are severe, making even simple activities, like sitting down, excruciatingly painful. Other times, hemorrhoids may cause significant bleeding or make it difficult to move your bowels regularly.
In those instances, hemorrhoid removal could be an appropriate choice. Dr. Tarlowe offers several options depending on your symptoms and other factors.
Only used for internal hemorrhoids, rubber band ligation uses a small surgical rubber band to cut off blood flow to the hemorrhoid. Over time, the hemorrhoid shrinks and falls off, leaving a protective scar behind.
Sclerotherapy administers a special solution directly to the hemorrhoid, causing it to shrink over time. This is the same technique that’s used to treat some types of varicose veins.
Some external hemorrhoids develop a blood clot that causes severe discomfort. Performed right in our office, clot removal eliminates the blockage and offers immediate relief.
Finally, hemorrhoidectomy is the surgical removal of hemorrhoids. It’s typically reserved for instances when hemorrhoid symptoms are especially severe.
While hemorrhoid removal is typically safe during pregnancy, it’s still important to discuss this option with your obstetrician. Provisioning care throughout your pregnancy (and often even before), your OB/GYN can help determine your specific risk factors, allowing you to make an informed decision about your treatment.
Hemorrhoids may be common during pregnancy, but that doesn’t mean you have to put up with them. With the right treatment, you can find much-needed relief for your painful hemorrhoids so you can focus on the joys of becoming a mom.
To learn more about hemorrhoid treatments, call 954-210-7127 or request an appointment online with Dr. Tarlowe in Deerfield Beach, Florida, today.
