Haemorrhoids are also called piles. These are swollen veins around the anus that often appear during pregnancy due to increased pelvic pressure, hormonal changes, and constipation. They can cause itching, pain, bleeding, or a lump near the anus. While most cases improve after delivery, the discomfort can be intense.
The fastest relief comes from a mix of lifestyle changes and safe treatments: sitz baths, cold compresses, gentle cleaning, a high-fibre diet with fluids, stool softeners, and short-term use of pregnancy-safe topical products. Severe cases like thrombosed haemorrhoids may need minor procedures.
In this blog, we’ll explore all the ways to get rid of haemorrhoids during pregnancy.
How to Ease Piles During Pregnancy?
Haemorrhoids can be painful, but small daily adjustments can make a big difference. The goal is to ease pressure, keep bowel movements regular, and calm irritation.
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Warm Sitz Baths and Compresses
Soak in warm water for 10-15 minutes or place a warm compress on the area. This relaxes the muscles, reduces swelling, and soothes discomfort.
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Stay Hydrated
Drink enough water throughout the day. Fluids work hand in hand with fibre to keep stools soft and prevent constipation that can be caused by haemorrhoids.
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Practise Gentle Cleaning
After using the toilet, clean with warm water or unscented moist wipes instead of dry paper. Pat the area dry to avoid irritation.
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Get Gentle Exercise
Short walks or light daily movement improve blood flow and help keep digestion regular, lowering the risk of flare-ups.
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Choose Comfortable Sitting Positions
If sitting feels uncomfortable, place a pillow or donut cushion under you to reduce pressure on the rectal veins.
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Increase Fibre Intake
Load your meals with fruits, vegetables, beans, and whole grains. Extra fibre softens stools and makes bowel movements easier.
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Use Cold Compresses for Pain Relief
For quick relief, apply a cold pack wrapped in cloth to the area for a few minutes at a time. This helps shrink swelling and numb pain.
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Try Kegel Exercises
Strengthening your pelvic floor muscles boosts circulation and relieves some of the pressure on the veins that cause haemorrhoids.
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Avoid Long Sitting or Standing
Switch positions often and take breaks to move around. Staying in one position too long increases rectal pressure and makes symptoms worse.
Safe Topical Treatments for Haemorrhoids in Pregnancy
When haemorrhoids flare up during pregnancy, simple topical remedies can ease discomfort and reduce irritation. Many natural options are safe, but it’s important to use them correctly and confirm with your doctor before trying medicated products.
Over-the-Counter Options
- Hydrocortisone Creams
Mild hydrocortisone creams can reduce inflammation and irritation. Although only a small amount enters the bloodstream, you should always get your doctor’s approval before using them in pregnancy.
- Medicated Wipes
Unscented wipes containing soothing ingredients like aloe vera or witch hazel make cleaning gentler and help prevent further irritation.
- Witch Hazel Pads
Pads infused with witch hazel can be applied directly to the anal area for targeted relief.
Home Remedies
- Aloe Vera or Coconut Oil
Applying a small amount of pure aloe vera gel or coconut oil can soothe soreness and calm irritation.
- Witch Hazel
Witch hazel is a well-known natural remedy for piles. It can be dabbed directly on the area or used in medicated pads to ease itching and swelling.
- Warm Sitz Bath
Soaking in a few inches of warm (not hot) water for 10-15 minutes helps improve blood flow, relax the anal muscles, and provide quick relief.
- Baking Soda
A paste of baking soda mixed with water, or even dry baking soda, may help reduce itching around haemorrhoids.
Important Considerations
- Consult Your Doctor First: Even if a product is available without a prescription, always check that it’s safe for you and your pregnancy.
- Limit Sitting Time: Sitting for long stretches increases rectal pressure. Use cushions or take breaks to move around.
- Support With Lifestyle Habits: Drink plenty of water and eat fibre-rich foods to prevent constipation, which is the main trigger for haemorrhoids.
Are Stool Softeners Safe During Pregnancy?
Yes, stool softeners like docusate sodium (Colace) are typically regarded as safe for use during pregnancy. They work gently in the intestines and are only minimally absorbed by the body, which means they are unlikely to affect your baby. You should always check with your healthcare provider before starting any medication, even over-the-counter options.
For many women, constipation can be managed with simple lifestyle changes like eating more fibre-rich foods, drinking plenty of water, and staying active. Stool softeners are usually recommended when these steps aren’t enough.
Why Stool Softeners Are Considered Safe?
- Minimal Absorption: Very little of the active ingredient enters your bloodstream, so it doesn’t reach the baby in significant amounts.
- Local Action in the Intestines: Stool softeners work directly in your digestive tract by moistening stool and making it easier to pass.
- No Evidence of Harm: Research shows no increase in birth defects or negative outcomes when docusate sodium is used in early pregnancy.
Which Medications Should Be Avoided?
Not all haemorrhoid treatments are safe during pregnancy. Some medicines may increase risks for you, while others lack enough research to confirm their safety. It’s important to be cautious and always speak with your doctor before using any prescription or over-the-counter product.
- NSAIDs (like ibuprofen)
These pain relievers can raise the risk of bleeding and are not considered safe during pregnancy.
- Stimulant Laxatives
Products that stimulate the bowel, such as senna or bisacodyl, may trigger cramping, diarrhoea, and discomfort. They’re generally avoided unless specifically prescribed.
- Topical Corticosteroids
Although mild topical creams are sometimes used, stronger corticosteroid preparations aren’t usually recommended because of possible side effects and limited pregnancy safety data.
- Oral Corticosteroids
Taking corticosteroid tablets during pregnancy has been linked to risks such as cleft palate and other complications, so they are avoided unless absolutely necessary.
- Local Anaesthetics
Many haemorrhoid creams include numbing agents. Since safety data is limited for use in pregnancy, these should only be used with medical approval.
When to See a Doctor for Haemorrhoids During Pregnancy
Most haemorrhoids improve with conservative care, but call your doctor if you have:
- Severe, constant pain or a hard lump (possible thrombosed haemorrhoid).
- Heavy rectal bleeding or blood mixed with stool.
- Signs of infection (fever, pus, spreading redness).
- No relief after a week of self-care.
- Sudden change in bowel habits or inability to pass stool.
In rare cases, minor procedures such as drainage of a thrombosed haemorrhoid may be performed safely during pregnancy.
Final Thoughts
Haemorrhoids during pregnancy are common and usually temporary, but they can be painful. The fastest safe relief combines warm sitz baths, cold compresses, gentle cleansing, a high-fibre diet with fluids, stool softeners, and careful use of topical treatments. Most women see improvement with these measures, and many haemorrhoids resolve after delivery. If pain is severe or bleeding is heavy, seek medical advice without delay.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I use haemorrhoid cream while pregnant?
Yes, some creams like witch hazel pads or low-strength hydrocortisone may be safe, but confirm with your doctor first.
2. What shrinks haemorrhoids fast while pregnant?
Moving around during the day helps reduce pressure. Use a donut-shaped cushion when sitting, and try witch hazel pads for quick relief.
3. How long do haemorrhoids last in pregnancy?
They often improve within a few weeks to months after delivery, though labour can make them worse at first.
4. What foods should I avoid with haemorrhoids?
Limit processed foods, refined grains, fried or fatty meals, salty snacks, alcohol, and too much dairy or spicy food. Stick to a high-fibre diet instead.
5. Is witch hazel good for haemorrhoids?
Yes. Witch hazel can help calm itching, swelling, and burning due to its soothing and anti-inflammatory properties.
