Anal fissures can be treated by:
Avoiding constipation
Laxatives and suppositories
Sits baths
Natural therapies
Glyceryl trinitrate
Botulinum toxin Injections
An operation
Avoiding constipation. It is important to avoid constipation. Having a high fibre diet (whole grains, cereals, fruits, vegetables, salads) with at least 6 to 8 glasses of fluids each day (water and juice) is essential. Dietary measures should be continued for the weeks (or months) after the birth, as the anal tear is healing, to keep the motions soft and regular.
If you are breastfeeding, lots of fluids are very important, as you are more likely to become constipated if you are not well hydrated. Other dietary changes and natural therapies can also be helpful. To read more on this you can click on
constipation after the birth.
Laxatives, suppositories and creams. Your caregiver may recommend laxatives or prescribe suppositories to help you go to the toilet if you are constipated. They may also prescribe a medicated cream to apply to the fissure, to help decrease any inflammation (usually containing small amounts of steroids).
Sits baths. Filling a bath or bowl with warm water and sitting in it can cleanse and help heal the fissure, especially after opening the bowels. You may wish to add some salt to the water (one part to 10 parts water).
Natural therapies. Some women will use natural therapies to help heal the fissure, and to soothe the pain. These may include homoeopathic remedies, Calendula or Paw paw cream, or making a herbal paste (one common one being Slippery Elm powder, water, vitamin E oil and Comfrey root powder) and applying it onto the fissure. Check with your herbalist for measures. Eating well, resting, and looking after yourself will also contribute to your body healing quickly.
Glyceryl trinitrate. Glycerol trinitrate is a medicated cream that has been commonly used to treat anal fissures if they do not heal after a few weeks.