Varicose Veins and Hemorrhoids in Pregnancy, Causes, Symptoms and Treatment
What are varicose veins and hemorrhoids?
Hemorrhoids and varicose veins may appear distinct and unrelated, but they share significant similarities. Many women, particularly those in the third trimester of pregnancy, experience both conditions.
Both varicose veins and hemorrhoids are swollen, twisted veins. While these veins commonly occur in the legs, they can also develop in various other parts of your body. When they form in the rectum, they are called hemorrhoids.
Causes of varicose veins and hemorrhoids in pregnancy
Normally, veins have one-way valves that aid in maintaining a steady flow of blood toward the heart. When these valves undergo pressure or weakening, it results in backward flow of blood, leading to accumulation and pooling in the veins. This causes them to enlarge and swell. Hemorrhoids result when rectal veins enlarge. Varicose veins occur when veins of the legs swell.
Many changes in pregnancy can increase the risk of varicose veins and hemorrhoids, such as:
- Increased blood volume, which enlarges the veins
- The increased weight of the growing baby exerts pressure on the large blood vessels in the pelvis, disrupting normal blood flow.
- Hormonal changes impact blood vessels, potentially slowing the return of blood to the heart and causing swelling in the smaller veins of the pelvis and legs.
Additionally, pushing or straining, particularly during constipation, can exacerbate hemorrhoids. Factors such as being overweight and having pre-existing hemorrhoids before pregnancy can also contribute to their worsening.
Varicose veins tend to run in families. Extended periods of sitting or standing in one position can place added strain on the veins, compelling them to exert more effort to pump blood to the heart. This heightened demand can lead to the development of swollen varicose veins and may also exacerbate pre-existing hemorrhoids.
Symptoms of varicose veins and hemorrhoids in pregnancy
Hemorrhoids can be internal, developing inside the rectum, or external, situated on the exterior around the anal opening. Internal hemorrhoids may occasionally protrude through the anal opening, with a common symptom being the passage of bright red blood during a bowel movement. External hemorrhoids can be painful or itchy and may bleed when irritated by straining or wiping.
Varicose veins typically appear as enlarged, twisted, and raised blue or purple veins, notably on the legs, often seen on the backs of the calves or inner legs. They might lead to mild swelling in the ankles and feet, along with sensations of aching, heaviness, or throbbing in the legs. Tender or painful vulva can be a symptom of vulvar varicose veins .
How are varicose veins and hemorrhoids in pregnancy diagnosed?
The diagnosis of varicose veins and hemorrhoids during pregnancy involves a thorough examination by your doctor. This examination typically includes an assessment of the legs to identify varicose veins and an examination of the rectal area to detect hemorrhoids. By visually inspecting these regions, your doctor can effectively diagnose and evaluate the severity of both conditions, allowing for appropriate management and guidance throughout the course of pregnancy.
Treatment for varicose veins and hemorrhoids in pregnancy
Hemorrhoids experienced during pregnancy are typically a temporary concern that tends to improve after childbirth. Nevertheless, there are measures you can take to alleviate discomfort:
- To relieve pain, consider sitting in a tub or sitz bath multiple times a day with plain, warm water for approximately 10 minutes each session.
- When using a tub bath, avoid filling it completely. Add just enough warm water to sit in, directing blood flow to your rectum.
- Utilize ice packs or cold compresses to reduce swelling.
- Consult your doctor about safe creams or medications, such as stool softeners, for use during pregnancy.
- Prevent constipation by incorporating ample fiber and fluids into your diet.
- Avoid straining during bowel movements and prolonged sitting. Regular Kegel exercises, involving the contraction and relaxation of muscles in your vaginal and rectal area, can enhance muscle tone.
- Most varicose veins that develop during pregnancy tend to improve within the first year after childbirth. During this period, minimize extended periods of standing or sitting without breaks and refrain from crossing your legs. Elevate your legs and feet whenever you’re sitting or lying down.
- Avoid tight clothing around your waist, thighs, and knees, as it can exacerbate varicose veins.
- Stay active with activities like walking and swimming, which are particularly beneficial for varicose veins.
- Incorporate foot exercises into your routine, such as bending and stretching your foot up and down, and rotating it eight times in each direction, repeating on both feet.
Consult your doctor if symptoms worsen or if you experience excessive bleeding from hemorrhoids. And remember that these problems are usually short-term and get better after delivery with time and treatment.
What can I do to prevent varicose veins and hemorrhoids in pregnancy?
The best way to help prevent hemorrhoids during pregnancy is to avoid getting constipated. If you have constipation, avoid straining during bowel movements.
Measures to help prevent varicose veins are the same as those used to decrease symptoms:
- Do not stand still or sit for long periods of time.
- Do not wear tight clothes.
- Be mindful of excessive weight gain during pregnancy; maintain a balanced diet to stay within recommended limits.
- Elevate your feet whenever possible.
- Avoid sitting with your legs crossed, especially if you work at a desk.
Key points about varicose veins and hemorrhoids in pregnancy
- Both varicose veins and hemorrhoids are swollen, twisted veins. These veins are often in the legs, but when they form in the rectum, they are called hemorrhoids.
- Many normal changes in pregnancy can increase the risk for varicose veins and hemorrhoids.
- Hemorrhoids and varicose veins in pregnancy are usually short-term and temporary problem, and they get better after your baby is born.
- You can do things to ease the discomfort they can cause. These include sitz baths, ice packs or cold compresses to reduce swelling, and creams or other medicines, such as stool softeners, your doctor may recommend.
- The best way to help prevent hemorrhoids during pregnancy is to avoid getting constipated. If you have constipation, avoid straining during bowel movements.
