Learn about the early signs of hemorrhoids during pregnancy 7 early signs of hemorrhoids that shouldn’t be ignored and prompt medical attention.
Hemorrhoids, or piles, are a common but extremely uncomfortable problem during pregnancy. This problem is especially common in women during the third trimester. According to Dr. Vijaykumar Malladi, Director of MITR Hospital in Navi Mumbai and a laparoscopic and robotic surgeon, “Hemorrhoids develop during pregnancy due to increased pressure on the pelvic veins, hormonal changes, and constipation. They often go undetected early, so it’s important to be alert to early symptoms.”
The following 7 early signs of hemorrhoids during pregnancy are signs that shouldn’t be ignored.
Early Signs Of Hemorrhoids During Pregnancy
Pain or discomfort after defecation
If you still feel like you need to defecate after defecation, this could be a sign of tenesmus. Swollen veins put pressure on the rectum, creating this false sensation. This is considered one of the early signs of pregnancy.
Mild but persistent pain
Sometimes there is no sharp pain, but rather a slight burning or heaviness that lasts for a while. Swelling in the venous tissue gradually subsides, so this discomfort is short-lived.
Fresh bleeding during or after defecation
Bright red blood on toilet paper or in the toilet bowl is the most common sign of hemorrhoids. This symptom is most often found in internal hemorrhoids.
Note—Any type of rectal bleeding in pregnant women should be seen by a doctor.
Itching or Burning in the Anal Area
Dr. Malladi explains, “Constant or intense itching around the anal opening is the primary symptom of external hemorrhoids. Moisture, sweat, or poor hygiene after bowel movements can aggravate this irritation.”
This symptom is very common in the early stages and can gradually worsen.
Swelling or a small, raised lump near the anus
If you feel a soft or tender lump while sitting, it could be an external hemorrhoid. Sitting for long periods during pregnancy can make this swelling more noticeable.
Sharp pain or a stinging sensation during defecation
Passing hard stools or straining can stretch the swollen veins, causing severe pain.
If a blood clot forms in the hemorrhoids (thrombosed hemorrhoids), the pain can suddenly become severe and require immediate medical attention.
Pain increases with prolonged sitting or standing.
During pregnancy, pelvic veins are already under pressure. Sitting or standing for long periods of time can affect blood flow, which can increase swelling and pain.
In such cases, doctors often recommend sleeping on your left side to rest.
Early Signs of Hemorrhoids During Pregnancy – Why Do These Symptoms Increase?
The main reasons for hemorrhoids to increase during pregnancy are:
- The growing uterus puts pressure on the rectal veins.
- Hormonal changes slow down bowel movements.
- Constipation and straining put additional pressure on the veins.
- Reduced mobility (prolonged sitting/lying down) in the final months.
Early signs of hemorrhoids often appear early, and early detection can prevent the problem from becoming serious.
Early Signs of Hemorrhoids During Pregnancy – When is it important to see a doctor?
- Persistent or increasing pain
- Frequent rectal bleeding
- Difficulty walking or sitting
- Sudden development of a hard, painful lump
- Rapid enlargement of hemorrhoids
Any such symptoms during pregnancy should not be taken lightly and immediate medical advice should be sought.