Hemorrhoids

Hemorrhoids are a common experience of pregnancy and in the weeks following birth. Hemorrhoids are swollen veins around your bottom/anus that may be painful, or itch or burn. They can make having a bowel movement very unpleasant or scary after your birth and can even bleed, and this can sometimes be confused for bleeding or spotting from your birth canal/vagina. Lying down, taking baths, and stool softeners can alleviate the discomfort. They will often go away in a few weeks after your baby is born. See the resources below for more information on hemorrhoids.

• HealthyFamiliesBC - Managing bowel movements and hemorrhoids after pregnancy

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• HealthLinkBC - Hemorrhoids: causes, symptoms, diagnosis, treatment and FAQs

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• Baby Center - Postpartum hemorrhoids