What to do about hemorrhoids after childbirth
Oct 31, 2023
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Li Jingxiang
Introduction
Hemorrhoids after childbirth can be relieved through dietary adjustments, increased water intake, warm sitz baths, maintaining good bowel habits, and topical medications. The postpartum diet should include sufficient dietary fiber to enhance intestinal motility, facilitate smoother bowel movements, and reduce irritation to hemorrhoids. If symptoms persist or worsen, or if hemorrhoids are severe, surgical treatment may need to be considered.
Hemorrhoids refer to piles. In general, postpartum hemorrhoids can be relieved through dietary adjustments, increased water intake, warm sitz baths, maintaining good bowel habits, and topical medications. Specific measures are as follows:
1. Dietary adjustment: The diet of postpartum women should include sufficient dietary fiber, which helps enhance intestinal motility, facilitates smoother bowel movements, and reduces irritation to hemorrhoids.
2. Increased water intake: Drinking adequate amounts of water is essential for maintaining normal bowel function. Sufficient hydration helps soften stools, reducing constipation and discomfort.
3. Warm sitz bath: Soaking the buttocks in warm water is an effective method to alleviate pain and swelling caused by hemorrhoids.
4. Maintaining good bowel habits: Avoid straining during bowel movements and prolonged sitting on the toilet. Respond promptly to the urge to defecate to reduce the occurrence of constipation.
5. Topical medications: Postpartum women may use topical medications such as Gangtai ointment or Yunnan Baiyao hemorrhoid ointment as directed by a physician to help relieve symptoms like pain and itching.
If symptoms persist or worsen, or if hemorrhoids are severe, surgical treatment may need to be considered. It is recommended that postpartum women consult a doctor promptly.
