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What is safe to take for hemorrhoids in pregnancy?

By , About.com Guide

Hemorrhoids are inflamed and swollen veins of the rectum. Hemorrhoids are fairly common in pregnancy, but also painful. They should be treated with a combination approach.

One reason that pregnant women get hemorrhoids is constipation. So the first step in treating hemorrhoids in pregnancy is to prevent constipation. This means staying well hydrated with water and making dietary changes to include more fiber. This should help relieve constipation.

You may also have pain from the varicose veins, hemorrhoids. For this you can try many things that are considered safe in pregnancy including:

  • sitz baths
  • Preparation H
  • Tucks (or other witch hazel pads)
  • Anusol

You should talk to your doctor or midwife about your constipation and hemorrhoids. There may be other changes you can make, like switching your prenatal vitamins to be helpful.

Since hemorrhoids generally get better after you've given birth, surgery is generally not an option until the postpartum period.

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