Pregnancy, Hemorrhoids, and the Hemorrhoidectomy Surgical Procedure
Hemorrhoids affect 1 in 20 Americans, according to the National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive Kidney Diseases. While there are several potential causes, pregnancy raises the risk of hemorrhoid development. If you're a new mom, take a look at what you need to know about a post-pregnancy hemorrhoidectomy surgical procedure.
Why Do Pregnant Women Develop Hemorrhoids?
Again, anyone can have hemorrhoids. These bulging veins can develop outside the anal area (external hemorrhoids) or inside the rectum (internal hemorrhoids). While some women experience very few or mild symptoms, a thrombosed or prolapsed hemorrhoid can cause severe pain or bleeding. The added pressure of the growing baby can increase the risk of anal or rectal vein swelling.
Coupled with the hormonal changes of pregnancy, this can lead to hemorrhoids. Along with added pelvic pressure and hormonal changes, an increase in blood flow, straining during bowel movements, extra body weight, and sitting for longer periods of time are other potential causes of pregnant-related hemorrhoids.
What Can a Pregnant Woman Do About Hemorrhoids?
Prevention is an easy way to reduce the risks of pregnant-related hemorrhoids. Increased fiber intake, adequate hydration, and moderate exercise (under the supervision of a medical provider) can help to prevent these bulging veins.
But if your best prevention efforts fail, you'll need to explore treatment options. Talk to your doctor about what the best strategy or product is for your individual health needs. Sitz baths, ice packs/cold compresses, and witch hazel-soaked pads can provide comfort.
When Is Hemorrhoidectomy Necessary?
While many hemorrhoids respond well to at-home care, some won't shrink, cause constant pain, or prolapse outside of the anal area. If your hemorrhoids persist after pregnancy, the doctor may recommend a surgical removal procedure — a hemorrhoidectomy.
If you are still pregnant, it's likely the doctor will want to wait until after you've given birth to perform this surgery. While it's possible to have a hemorrhoidectomy during pregnancy, the medical provider may suggest a more conservative treatment (such as sitz baths or witch hazel wipes) first.
What Is a Hemorrhoidectomy?
This surgical procedure involves an incision made in the tissue surrounding the hemorrhoid. The surgeon then ties off the swollen, bulging vein to prevent bleeding. After the doctor removes the hemorrhoid, they'll suture (stitch) the area closed.
The type of hemorrhoidectomy used depends on the woman's healthcare needs and the surgeon's medical opinion. This procedure can include the use of a scalpel (surgical knife), laser, or electric cautery pencil. Most hemorrhoidectomy procedures are done on an outpatient basis. This means you can go home and start your recovery on the same day as the surgery.
