Natural therapies
Medical treatments
What to avoid
Lifestyle choices
There are various approaches that women will use to help them deal with their haemorrhoids after the birth. However, in many cases these approaches are most beneficial if started during the pregnancy.
The following are things that can help keep the bowel motions soft, or help avoid straining after the birth, or work towards strengthening the muscles of the rectum after the birth.
Drinking water
Dietary changes
Taking time
Pelvic floor exercises
Resting
Drinking water. Drinking at least 8 to 10 glasses of water a day, and a glass or two of fruit juice (prune juice if possible) and / or vegetable juice (fresh if possible). Sometimes drinking very hot (or very cold) liquids are beneficial (depending on the woman). Sometimes a glass of warm water with a squeeze of lemon juice first thing in the morning can stimulate the bowels.
If breastfeeding, be aware that the baby will consume up to 600 to 800 millilitres of breast milk every 24 hours, and if you are not drinking enough water to keep herself hydrated as well as producing breast milk, your body will naturally reabsorb water from your intestines, making the bowel motions or 'faeces' become harder, and more difficult to pass.
Therefore, if you are breastfeeding, you will need to drink plenty of water, however, it is usually not necessary to force yourself to drink. This is because breastfeeding women have a natural physical mechanism that promotes an increased fluid intake. When you experience a '
let-down', your body triggers your thirst sensation. Many women will get into the habit of placing a glass of water next to them, every time they feed.
Dietary changes. Increasing the fibre in your diet can help. Including cereals, with bran or psyllium seeds or wheat germ added. Fruit and vegetables, especially dried fruits such as prunes, apricots, dates and sultanas.