Hemorrhoids can affect both men and women. Pregnant women are at higher risk of developing hemorrhoids. Why is this? Let's discuss this further.
Hemorrhoids are a condition caused by the dilation of veins in the rectum and anus. This often occurs due to increased pressure in the area. If this condition persists or persists for a long period of time, it can cause the veins to dilate, forming a lump.
Causes of Hemorrhoids
Generally speaking, the most common cause is excessive pressure on the rectum and anus. This can occur when someone is constipated, requiring greater straining during a bowel movement. Furthermore, diarrhea can also increase the risk of hemorrhoids.
Although the pressure on these areas is not as high as diarrhea, if it occurs frequently or exceeds normal limits, if it occurs continuously and over a long period, it can also lead to hemorrhoids. In addition to these common causes, pregnant women can also experience hemorrhoids.
During pregnancy, the growing fetus in the lower abdominal cavity can put pressure on the lower gastrointestinal tract, particularly the rectum and anus, increasing the risk of hemorrhoids. The risk of developing hemorrhoids typically increases with gestational age. This is related to the increasing size of the fetus and the resulting increased pressure. In other words, the risk of hemorrhoids is higher in the final trimester of pregnancy.
What symptoms are you experiencing?
In the early stages, hemorrhoids may not cause any symptoms at all. However, if the condition persists for a long time and is not properly treated, it can cause several symptoms and disrupt daily activities. A common symptom of hemorrhoids is blood in the stool. The blood is usually bright red and forms a line on the surface of the stool. Blood may also drip at the end of a bowel movement.
Furthermore, a common sign and symptom often reported by patients with hemorrhoids is a lump in the anal area. The characteristics of the lump can usually determine the severity of the hemorrhoid, especially internal hemorrhoids.
- Grade 1: In this stage, a lump is usually not palpable around the anus. However, a digital rectal examination may reveal a lump on the inner surface of the rectum.
- Grade 2: The lump is usually palpable around the anus after a bowel movement or when significant pressure is applied to the rectum and anus. However, the lump usually retracts on its own.
- Grade 3: In this stage, the lump is palpable around the anus, but must be manually pushed back in.
- Grade 4: In this stage, the lump usually cannot be pushed back into the anus even with manual pushing.
Do I have to undergo a surgical procedure?
During regular prenatal checkups with an ob-gyn specialist, you should consult your doctor for antenatal care. If you experience typical hemorrhoid symptoms, it's crucial to inform your doctor. Further tests will be performed to confirm the diagnosis, and if necessary, a referral to a surgeon will be necessary.
Hemorrhoid treatment doesn't always involve surgery. Maintaining a high-fiber diet and drinking enough water daily is crucial. Additionally, medication may be prescribed to help with constipation. However, if symptoms persist, your doctor may consider surgical therapy.
Written by Dr. Valda Garcia. Reviewed by Dr. Ernest Eugene.
.png)