Care During Pregnancy

What is the Likely Cause of Rectal Bleeding In Pregnant Women
Rectal bleeding or the presence of blood in stool during pregnancy occurs as a result of hemorrhoids- these are varicose veins around and inside the rectum. During pregnancy, hemorrhoids are fairly common and this is more so in the final trimester as well as in the subsequent weeks after delivery. The bleeding of such swollen veins may be caused by straining during the movement of the bowel, passing of hard stools as well as rubbing when wiping.

Rectal bleeding is equally caused by anal fissures. These are painful cracks that are found in the anal skin and are likely to be caused by the passage of stool due to constipation, which is a common occurrence during pregnancy.

Does Rectal Bleeding Signify a Serious Complication?
The bleeding found in the stool as a result of hemorrhoids normally subsides on its own, especially if changes are made to reduce the occurrence of constipation. However, you may go to a specialist if the bleeding is severe and opt for treatment that might involve minor surgery.

How can this Problem be prevented?
Both anal fissures and hemorrhoids are often irritated and brought about by constipation, hence staying regular has a potential of helping. Here are certain tips for easing and preventing constipation:

• High fiber foods should be eaten and this includes whole grain breads, cereals as well as fresh vegetables and fruits daily. Several tablespoons of wheat bran that is unprocessed should be added (available at healthy food stores) to the cereal each morning and followed with a glassful of water.

• Drink lots of water- at least 6-8 glasses daily. A glassful of fruit juice daily, particularly prune juice may equally be helpful.

• Regular exercising- Yoga, swimming and walking may equally be helpful in easing constipation and make you feel healthier and more fit.

• Listen to the body- When the urge is felt, a bathroom visit should never be put off.

• Talk to your healthcare specialist concerning the use of fiber supplements available over the counter.

• The healthcare provider should be asked whether the temporary switch to parental vitamin comprising less iron is sensible.

Below are additional suggestions that may aid in soothing and preventing hemorrhoids:

• Kegel exercises should be done daily: The muscles surrounding the anus and vagina should be tensed and held for 8-10 seconds before they are released and relaxed. This should be repeated 25 times. Kegels aid in increasing the rectal area’s circulation while strengthening the anal muscles and decreasing any chances for hemorrhoids. They equally tone and strengthen the muscles surrounding the urethra and vagina hence aiding in postpartum recovery.

• Certain women seek comfort through ice packs or by soaking cold compresses in witch hazel whilst others have more faith in a heating pad. An attempt should be made of alternating cold and hot treatments by starting with ice packs before proceeding to a lukewarm sitz bath.

• Use white, soft, unscented toilet tissue because the irritation it causes is less compared to the scented, colored varieties. Moistened tissue equally helps as well. Make use of witch hazel to saturate moist towelettes.

• Ask a healthcare practitioner for a recommendation of a topical and safe anesthetic or a medicated suppository when you experience blood in stool during pregnancy.