Haemorrhoids in Pregnancy, Because Growing a Human Wasn’t Enough

Haemorrhoids in pregnancy feel very unfair. You are growing a whole human, juggling appointments and cravings, and now your bum has joined the party uninvited. If you have spotted blood on the toilet paper, felt a small lump, or sitting has become a negotiation, you are not alone and you are not doing anything wrong.

This guide walks through why haemorrhoids are so common in pregnancy, what is normal, what is not, and simple ways to feel more comfortable. 

Why haemorrhoids and pregnancy turn up together

Haemorrhoids are swollen veins around the back passage. During pregnancy your body is doing several things that make those veins more likely to puff up and complain. None of this is a moral failing. It is just biology being slightly rude.

Hormones that soften everything

Pregnancy hormones, especially progesterone, relax smooth muscle in your body. Helpful for growing a baby, less helpful for your bowels. Slower movement through the gut can lead to constipation, straining, and extra pressure on the veins around the anus. Over time those veins can swell and form haemorrhoids.

Constipation and straining

Many pregnant people notice their stools become harder or less frequent. Iron supplements, reduced movement, nausea, and diet changes can all play a part. Straining on the toilet increases pressure in the lower bowel and can push existing haemorrhoids out or trigger new ones. Short version, your bum prefers soft, regular poos and as little pushing as possible.

A growing uterus and more blood volume

As your uterus grows, it puts extra pressure on the veins in your pelvis, especially in the later trimesters. You also have more blood circulating around your body. Both of these increase the workload on the veins around your bottom. If they are already a bit delicate, they may respond by swelling and becoming sore.

Labour and birth

Pushing in labour can also make haemorrhoids appear or flare. You might reach the end of birth with a baby in your arms and a new haemorrhoid you did not meet at the start of the day. It is a common part of the recovery picture and there are ways to ease it.

What pregnancy haemorrhoids feel like

Haemorrhoids in pregnancy can be internal, external, or a mix. Symptoms vary, and you might notice:

• A small lump or swelling around the anus, especially after a bowel movement
• Itching, irritation or a feeling of fullness around the back passage
• Pain or stinging when you poo or when you sit down for a long time
• Bright red blood on the toilet paper or on the outside of the stool

Mild haemorrhoids can be more annoying than painful. More severe haemorrhoids can cause sharp discomfort, throbbing, or difficulty sitting comfortably. If pain is intense, or symptoms change suddenly, it is worth getting checked promptly.

When to talk to your midwife or GP

Pregnancy does not mean you should ignore worrying symptoms because you assume everything is “just part of it”. Speak to your midwife, GP, or maternity assessment unit if you notice:

• Heavy bleeding from the back passage
• Black, tarry stools or blood mixed into the stool
• Severe or sudden pain around the anus, especially with a hard lump
• A haemorrhoid that stays out and cannot be gently pushed back in
• Fever, feeling generally unwell, or pain that spreads
• Unintentional weight loss, ongoing change in bowel habit, or abdominal pain

If you are ever unsure whether something is urgent, it is completely reasonable to ask for advice. You are not wasting anyone’s time by checking on your own health.

Everyday ways to soothe haemorrhoids in pregnancy

Good news, there are several practical steps that are safe in most pregnancies. Always follow the advice of your own midwife or GP, especially if you have other health conditions, but these are common starting points.

Make poo as easy as possible

• Hydration. Drinking enough water helps soften stools. Your midwife can advise on suitable amounts for you.
• Fibre. Wholegrains, fruit, vegetables, beans, and lentils help keep things moving. Increase fibre gradually to avoid bloating.
• Iron supplements. If iron tablets are making you constipated, tell your midwife. There may be alternative preparations or ways to adjust the dose.
• Stool softeners. Some products are considered safe in pregnancy, but always check with your midwife, pharmacist, or GP before taking anything.

Rethink your toilet habits

• Feet up. A small stool under your feet can help straighten the rectum and reduce straining.
• Do not linger. Scrolling on your phone keeps you sitting and adds pressure to the area. In, out, done is kinder on your veins.
• Avoid pushing. If nothing is ready to come out, do not force it. Try again later once you feel a natural urge.

Use temperature and position to your advantage

• Cool compresses. A wrapped cold pack or a cool cloth against the area can reduce swelling for short periods.
• Warm sitz baths. Sitting in a shallow bath of warm water for 10 to 15 minutes can relax the area and ease discomfort.
• Change how you sit. Cushions or a soft ring can reduce direct pressure when you are working, feeding a baby, or resting.

Gentle movement and clothing

Light activity, within the limits set by your maternity team, can support bowel function and circulation. Even short walks around the house can help. Breathable underwear and loose clothing around your hips and waist reduce heat and friction that can make irritation worse.

Kind products for sore skin

The skin around haemorrhoids is sensitive at the best of times and even more so in pregnancy. Strongly fragranced products, alcohol, or harsh wipes can sting and dry the area out. Many people find that switching to gentle, plant based products and avoiding rubbing makes a noticeable difference in daily comfort.

Uranus Wiper Flushable Calming Wipes are designed for irritated bums and sensitive situations. They are infused with natural, plant based ingredients such as witch hazel extract, Cynanchum atratum, Agrimonia pilosa, and Male fern root, mixed with very pure water. These botanicals are traditionally associated with cleansing, cooling, soothing, and purifying effects on the skin, which can feel especially welcome when pregnancy haemorrhoids flare.

If you are considering creams or ointments, speak to your midwife or pharmacist first. Some over the counter products are suitable in pregnancy, others are not. You deserve advice that is tailored to your specific stage of pregnancy and medical history.

Haemorrhoids after birth

Haemorrhoids in pregnancy sometimes improve once your baby is born and the pressure in your pelvis reduces. For others, they stick around for a while, especially after a long labour, assisted delivery, or caesarean recovery that makes movement difficult at first.

The same principles still apply in the postpartum period. Protect the area from friction, keep your stools soft, rest when you can, and ask for help early if symptoms are getting worse rather than better. Caring for your own body is part of caring for your baby, even though it rarely makes the baby books.

If haemorrhoids are not settling a few weeks after birth, or they are affecting how you sit, feed, or care for your baby, speak to your GP. There are further treatments available if simple measures are not enough.