How to Manage Hemorrhoids During Pregnancy

Non-surgical treatments for hemorrhoids include:

• Bipolar coagulation: The use of special probes helps stop blood flow to the hemorrhoid and is effective for bleeding internal hemorrhoids.
• HAL (Hemorrhoidal Arterial Ligation): A knot is tied to stop blood flow to the hemorrhoid.
• Rubber Banding: A band is placed over the hemorrhoid to stop blood flow which causes the hemorrhoid to wither away within a few days. This procedure is commonly used for internal hemorrhoids and is one of the most popular treatments today.
• Freezing: Liquid nitrogen freezes the tissue and new tissue is ultimately formed.

Surgery may be required for hemorrhoids when bleeding cannot be controlled and there are several hemorrhoids both internal and external. As with any surgery there is a greater cost and risk involved as well as a longer period of recovery. Even when surgery fixes the problem, it is essential that a good diet and changes in managing bowel movements takes place to avoid other outbreaks.

Getting Better: Be Proactive

If you choose to ignore your symptoms or feel uneasy about seeing a doctor for your pain, you run the risk of increasing that pain, which can lead to constipation, more pain, and serious hemorrhoid problems.

The good news is that most people can manage their hemorrhoids with at-home treatments. There may be reoccurrences from time to time, but with the proper healthy habits in place, communication between you and your doctor, and knowledge of your treatment choices you can quickly minimize your pain and avoid surgical treatment.