How to Manage Hemorrhoids During Pregnancy

So how can women learn from Wendy? Don't ignore your symptoms and be proactive in solving your problem. Dr. Brad Imler, MD, president of the American Pregnancy Association, suggests the following to help tackle your hemorrhoids:

• Place baking soda (as a wet paste or in dry powder form) in the area to remove the itch.
• Take warm baths with baking soda and herbal sitz baths which increase circulation to the area. Herbs such as witch hazel, shepherd's purse, lavender, and juniper help reduce swelling and speed up recovery.
• Use witch hazel or lemon juice to reduce swelling and bleeding.
• Use Tucks pads. Analgesic ointments such as Preparation H are helpful as well.
• Use comfrey, which heals irritated skin, or yellowdock root ointment, which is soothing. Both can be found at organic and natural stores.

Dr. Moran also suggests ice packs and cool witch hazel compresses for reducing pain and inflammation.

Minimizing Hemorrhoids: What You Can Do

Hemorrhoids can't be prevented, says Dr. Berens, "But some risk factors can be minimized such as constipation and eating a healthy diet with fiber."

The American Pregnancy Association also suggests:

• Drinking plenty of fluids, including prune juice
• Eating fruits and vegetables
• Eating a diet high in fiber—either by increasing your daily intake to 20 to 30 grams of fiber with food or with the assistance of fiber supplements
• Not delaying going to the bathroom

Curing Hemorrhoids: Additional Treatments

Taking the advice of increasing water consumption, eating a high fiber diet, and using topical treatments and sitz baths may not always be enough. If your pain persists you may be in need of additional treatment—and there are several options available to you.