Why do hemorrhoids occur after normal delivery?

In general, hemorrhoids after vaginal delivery may be caused by factors such as pressure during childbirth, hormonal changes during pregnancy, bacterial infection, constipation, and varicose veins. If the above conditions occur, it is recommended to seek medical treatment promptly. Specific analyses are as follows:

1. Pressure during childbirth

During delivery, improper or excessive straining by the mother may lead to over-compression and damage of blood vessels around the anus, thus triggering hemorrhoids. Drinking more water in daily life can help reduce defecation strain.

2. Hormonal changes during pregnancy

Hormonal fluctuations during pregnancy—especially increased progesterone levels—can cause relaxation of blood vessel walls. This makes the vessels more prone to dilation, particularly in the pelvic region, thereby increasing the risk of hemorrhoids. It's important to avoid prolonged sitting or standing and to change body positions regularly.

3. Bacterial infection

After vaginal delivery, due to physical weakness and decreased immunity, new mothers are susceptible to infections. Infections in the anal and rectal areas may cause inflammation, leading to damaged and congested blood vessel walls, which can result in the aforementioned symptoms. Symptoms may include fever, redness, and swelling. Treatment should follow medical advice and may include medications such as amoxicillin capsules, piperacillin sodium for injection, and penicillin V potassium tablets.

4. Constipation

Poor lifestyle habits and insufficient fluid intake may lead to constipation. When hard stools pass through the anus, they can irritate and damage the anal mucosa and blood vessels. Over time, this may thin the vessel walls and lead to hemorrhoid formation. Symptoms may include bloating and abdominal pain. Medications such as smectite powder, loperamide capsules, and trimebutine maleate tablets should be used under a doctor’s guidance.

5. Varicose veins

Varicose veins may be related to genetic factors or prolonged sitting. During vaginal delivery, increased pelvic pressure may impair venous return around the anus, causing blood stagnation that leads to vessel wall dilation and hemorrhoid development. Symptoms may include swelling and pain. Patients should follow medical advice and use medications such as diosmin tablets, warfarin sodium tablets, and sodium aescinate tablets.

To prevent hemorrhoids, individuals should maintain healthy lifestyle habits, ensure a balanced diet, and postpartum women should get adequate rest, avoid prolonged sitting or standing to reduce anal pressure, and pay attention to personal hygiene by keeping the anal and rectal areas clean.