Vaginal Hemorrhoids
Why?

Yes, hemorrhoids in the anal area, but vaginal hemorrhoids? It seems impossible considering that the connective tissue around the vagina is quite tough and elastic, but this can occur.

These types of hemorrhoids are veins around the vagina that are inflamed and swollen. This is particularly common during pregnancy, when the circulating blood volume is increased, dilating the veins especially in the uterus. Add to this the pressure of the growing baby, pushing on the pelvic area and the bowel.

Usually, hemorrhoids occur in the anal and rectum region and they may be internal or external, but vaginal hemorrhoids can happen too. The main culprit for these seemingly horrific vaginal hemorrhoids is constipation. Constipation comes with straining, putting more pressure on the already dilated veins. Other symptoms, other than the cauliflower-like extensions, are pain, itching, burning and sometimes bleeding.

Prevention is key to avoiding these kinds of hemorrhoids.

To prevent constipation, consume foods that are rich in fiber like fruits, vegetables and whole grains. It is also important to drink at least 8-10 glasses of water to help in digestion. Exercise is also key to prevent vaginal hemorrhoids. Brisk walking for 30 minutes a day makes a lot of difference.

Pregnant women are advised to perform Kegel exercises to tone and strengthen the vaginal and perianal areas. To do this, tense your vaginal and rectal muscles, hold for 10 seconds and release. Do this repeatedly throughout the day. This exercise can be done anywhere, while watching TV, working at your desk, driving, or waiting in line at the supermarket and no one will notice.

It is important to notify your healthcare provider once you notice any of the symptoms. Continue doing all the preventive measures mentioned above when you have these hemorrhoids.

Straining will aggravate the pain and swelling making it worse. Keep the affected area clean as much as possible. Use wet wipes to clean your vaginal and perianal areas. Medicated hemorrhoid pads are also available in drugstores.

Avoid sitting or standing for long periods of time. This will put more pressure on your hemorrhoids. Avoid heavy lifting too, let someone do it for you.

One home remedy that makes wonders if you have these specific hemorrhoids is the Sitz bath. Sitz bath is a plastic tub that can fit in your toilet bowl and that could fit your buttock region. Fill it with warm, saline water, good enough to submerge both perianal and pelvic regions. Sit on it for 15-20 minutes. You can do this twice or thrice a day. A sitz bath reduces the inflammation and facilitates healing. Doing Sitz bath frequently will promote comfort and relief.

Over the counter remedies for both vaginal and anal hemorrhoids are available in drugstores but it is still important to consult with your physician especially if you are pregnant. Your doctor may change your prenatal vitamins if they contribute to the cause of constipation and eventually vaginal hemorrhoids.

Other medications that are believed to be safe for pregnant women are Tucks or witch hazel pads and Anusol.

Surgery is not usually indicated because these hemorrhoids generally get better after giving birth.

Return from Vaginal Hemorrhoids to Hemorrhoids and Pregnancy


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