Postpartum Hemorrhoids: Relief Tips That Actually Help in 2026

Hemorrhoids are one of the most common and least discussed postpartum complaints — affecting up to half of all new mothers in the weeks after birth. They can range from mildly irritating to genuinely debilitating, making sitting, walking, and using the toilet uncomfortable and sometimes painful. Despite their prevalence, many women feel embarrassed asking for help or suffer in silence. This guide cuts through the confusion with clear, practical advice on what postpartum hemorrhoids are, why they develop during labour, and exactly what you can do to feel better — backed by evidence and written for real mothers navigating real recovery.

By Dr. Emily Watson | Last updated: April 2026

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Table of Contents

• What Are Hemorrhoids and Why Do They Appear After Birth?
• Internal vs External Hemorrhoids
• Why Labour Makes Hemorrhoids Worse
• First Steps: Immediate Relief When It Is Worst
• Sitz Baths: A Science-Backed Intervention
• Topical Treatments: What Works and What Is Safe
• The Constipation-Hemorrhoid Cycle: Breaking It
• Diet, Fibre, and Hydration Strategy
• When Hemorrhoids Need Medical Attention
• Medical Treatments Beyond Creams
• Preventing Postpartum Hemorrhoids from Worsening
• Thrombosed Hemorrhoids: What to Know
• FAQ: Postpartum Hemorrhoids
• Sources

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What Are Hemorrhoids and Why Do They Appear After Birth?

Hemorrhoids are swollen, enlarged blood vessels in the lower rectum and around the anus. Everyone has these blood vessels — they are a normal part of the anatomy and contribute to the seal of the anal sphincter. Hemorrhoids become a problem when they become enlarged, inflamed, or prolapse (slip down from their normal position).

The Hormonal and Vascular Changes of Pregnancy

During pregnancy, several physiological changes conspire to increase pressure on the rectal veins and promote hemorrhoid development:

• Progesterone relaxes the smooth muscle walls of blood vessels, causing them to dilate and pool with blood
• Increased blood volume (40-50% more blood in pregnancy) means more pressure in the venous system
• The growing uterus puts direct mechanical pressure on the inferior vena cava and iliac veins, impeding venous return from the pelvis and lower body
• Constipation, common in pregnancy due to iron supplements and progesterone's effect on gut motility, increases straining

By the third trimester, many pregnant women already have developing hemorrhoids — they may not be symptomatic yet, but the vessels are already engorged.

The Final Insult: Labour Pushing

During the second stage of labour (pushing), intra-abdominal pressure increases dramatically — sometimes to 150-200mmHg or more during a push. This pressure is transmitted directly to the rectal and perianal veins, causing them to engorge further. In a prolonged second stage or in forceps or vacuum-assisted delivery, the pushing phase lasts longer and the pressure is sustained, causing significant hemorrhoid swelling.

Research published in the International Journal of Colorectal Disease confirms that the duration of the second stage of labour is directly correlated with postpartum hemorrhoid severity. Women who pushed for more than 30 minutes had significantly higher rates of symptomatic postpartum hemorrhoids.

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Internal vs External Hemorrhoids

Understanding which type you have matters because the symptoms and treatment differ.

Internal Hemorrhoids

Location: Above the dentate (or pectinate) line — the line inside the anal canal that marks the transition from skin to rectal mucosa.

Symptoms:

• Painless bright red bleeding during or after bowel movements — you may notice blood on the toilet paper or in the bowl
• A soft, grape-like lump that may protrude from the anus (called prolapse)
• Mucus discharge
• Itching or irritation from prolapsed tissue

Pain level: Usually painless unless prolapsed. The rectal mucosa above the dentate line has different nerve innervation — it is sensitive to stretch but not to sharp pain.

Grading:

• Grade 1: Bulge but do not prolapse
• Grade 2: Prolapse with straining but spontaneously return
• Grade 3: Prolapse and require manual pushing back in
• Grade 4: Permanently prolapsed and cannot be reduced

External Hemorrhoids

Location: Below the dentate line, in the perianal skin — this is sensitive tissue with somatic pain nerve innervation.

Symptoms:

• A firm, tender lump at the anal margin
• Pain, particularly when sitting or during bowel movements
• Itching, burning, and irritation of the perianal skin
• Bleeding if the surface is scratched or torn

Pain level: Significantly more painful than internal hemorrhoids due to somatic nerve innervation. A thrombosed external hemorrhoid (a blood clot forming within the vein) is particularly painful.

Thrombosed External Hemorrhoid

This occurs when a blood clot forms within an external hemorrhoid, causing sudden, severe pain. The lump turns blue or purple and is exquisitely tender. While extremely painful in the first 48-72 hours, thrombosed hemorrhoids are not dangerous and often improve significantly on their own within 7-10 days. However, medical assessment is warranted for severe cases.

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Why Labour Makes Hemorrhoids Worse

Understanding why labour specifically worsens hemorrhoids helps explain the postpartum experience and sets realistic expectations.

Mechanical Pressure During Pushing

Each contraction and push creates intense intra-abdominal pressure — imagine the pressure you feel when lifting something very heavy, but sustained for minutes to hours. This pressure compresses the rectal venous plexus, causing blood to pool and vessels to dilate. With each push, the swelling may visibly worsen.

Duration of Second Stage

The longer the second stage (from full dilation to delivery), the more sustained the pressure on the hemorrhoid vessels. Research suggests that pushing for more than 20-30 minutes significantly increases the risk of severe postpartum hemorrhoids.

Birth Position

Birthing positions that compress the rectal veins (certain supine positions, for example) may worsen hemorrhoid development. Some practitioners note that upright or side-lying positions may reduce the severity of postpartum hemorrhoids, though evidence is mixed.

Forceps and Vacuum Delivery

These instruments require longer, more sustained pushing efforts and sometimes direct pressure on the perineum and anal sphincter. Women who have assisted vaginal deliveries have higher rates of severe postpartum hemorrhoids.

Postpartum Medication

Pain relief medications given in labour (particularly opioids like pethidine or morphine) slow gut motility and cause constipation, which exacerbates hemorrhoids. This is why managing constipation from the first postpartum day is so important.

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First Steps: Immediate Relief When It Is Worst

The first 48 hours after birth, when hemorrhoid pain is at its worst and the perineum is also recovering, require a prioritised approach.

Step 1: Ice the Area

Apply a cold pack or ice pack (wrapped in a soft cloth — never directly on skin) to the perianal area for 10-15 minutes, several times an hour. Cold causes vasoconstriction, reducing swelling and providing numbing pain relief. Frozen peas in a bag work well, or you can use purpose-made postpartum cooling pads.

Step 2: Use a Peri Bottle with Cool Water

Rinsing the perianal area with cool water during and after using the toilet is far more comfortable than wiping with dry toilet paper. Use a peri bottle (the same one you use for perineal care) filled with cool to cold water.

Step 3: Keep Pressure Off

Avoid sitting for prolonged periods. Sit on a perineal recovery cushion (with a central hole or channel), a nursing pillow, or a folded soft towel. When lying down, lie on your side rather than your back or stomach.

Step 4: Take Pain Relief

Paracetamol (1g every 6 hours) is safe and effective for hemorrhoid pain. Ibuprofen (400mg three times daily with food) adds anti-inflammatory benefit and is also safe while breastfeeding. Taking them regularly (not just when pain peaks) prevents pain from escalating.

Step 5: Use Witch Hazel Pads

Chilled witch hazel pads (available from pharmacies or made by saturating cotton pads with witch hazel and refrigerating) provide soothing, astringent relief when applied to the perianal area. Some women find them among the most effective home treatments.

Step 6: Barrier Creams

Apply a thin layer of zinc oxide cream (like a nappy rash cream — Sudocrem is one option) as a barrier between the hemorrhoid and any discharge or friction. This prevents further irritation and protects the sensitive tissue.

Step 7: Do Not Strain

Avoid any activity that involves pushing or straining — heavy lifting, constipation, extended time on the toilet. If you feel the urge to have a bowel movement, go — but do not sit and strain. Using a footstool to elevate your feet into a squat position helps bowel movements happen without straining.

Step 8: Rest and Elevate

Lie on your side with your pelvis slightly elevated on a pillow as often as possible. Elevating the pelvis reduces venous pressure in the rectal veins, allowing swelling to decrease.

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Sitz Baths: A Science-Backed Intervention

A sitz bath — sitting in warm water that covers the perianal area — is one of the most consistently recommended and effective interventions for hemorrhoids. The mechanism is straightforward: warmth increases blood flow to the area, promoting healing; buoyancy reduces pressure on the hemorrhoids; and water provides gentle cleaning without friction.

How to Do a Sitz Bath

Fill a clean bathtub or a specially designed sitz bath basin (which fits over a toilet seat) with warm — not hot — water. The temperature should feel comfortable when tested with your wrist, roughly 37-40°C. Sit in the water for 10-15 minutes. You can do this 2-4 times per day and especially after bowel movements.

What to Add

• Plain warm water is sufficient for most purposes
• Table salt or Epsom salts (1-2 tablespoons in the bath) may improve comfort
• Baking soda (half a cup in the bath) can reduce itching and irritation
• Witch hazel (a cupful added to the bath) provides astringent relief
• Avoid bubble bath, scented products, or anything with alcohol

After the Bath

Pat the area dry gently with a clean, soft towel — do not rub. Apply any topical treatments after the area is fully dry. Ideally, sitz baths are followed by hemorrhoid cream or barrier cream application.

Frequency

In the first week, 3-4 sitz baths per day (including after every bowel movement) is a reasonable target. As symptoms improve, you can reduce to 2-3 times daily.

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Topical Treatments: What Works and What Is Safe

Zinc Oxide-Based Creams

What they are: Thick, paste-like creams (Anusol, Sudocrem, generic zinc oxide ointment) that create a protective barrier over the hemorrhoid.

How they work: Zinc oxide is an astringent — it shrinks and protects tissue, reduces moisture, and soothes irritation. It is inert, not absorbed through the skin, and safe for breastfeeding mothers.

How to use: Apply a thin layer after bathing and after each bowel movement. Can be used long-term.

Witch Hazel Preparations

What they are: Medicated pads, gels, or creams containing witch hazel (Hamamelis), a plant-derived astringent.

How they work: Witch hazel tightens and constricts blood vessels (vasoconstriction), reducing swelling and bleeding. It has a cooling, soothing effect.

How to use: Apply to the perianal area with a pad or cotton ball after bathing or cleaning. Can be used as frequently as needed.

Hydrocortisone Creams (1%)

What they are: Low-strength steroid creams available over-the-counter in some countries (Anusol HC, others).

How they work: Hydrocortisone reduces inflammation, itching, and swelling in the perianal skin. It is generally considered safe for short-term use (up to 7 days) while breastfeeding, though it is not usually the first-line treatment for postpartum mothers.

How to use: Apply thinly twice daily for up to 7 days. Not for use on broken or infected skin without medical supervision.

Phenylephrine-Based Products

What they are: Products like Preparation H that contain phenylephrine, a vasoconstrictor that shrinks hemorrhoid tissue.

How they work: Phenylephrine constricts blood vessels, reducing swelling of external hemorrhoids and decreasing bleeding of internal ones. Vasoconstrictors are generally safe for short-term use but should not be used long-term without medical advice.

Safety note: There is minimal systemic absorption, making it generally safe while breastfeeding. However, avoid use for more than 7 days without consulting a doctor.

Lidocaine/Pramoxine Sprays or Gels

What they are: Topical anaesthetics available as sprays or gels (Haemocort, others).

How they work: Temporarily numbs the perianal skin and hemorrhoid tissue, providing pain relief for sitting and bowel movements. Useful in the first few days when pain is severe.

How to use: Apply before bowel movements or when pain is most severe. Can be used 3-4 times daily. Not a treatment — only symptom relief.

Combination Products

Many products (such as Anusol HC, Preparation H with hydrocortisone) combine an astringent, a protectant, and a mild steroid for multi-symptom relief. These are generally effective and safe for short-term use in breastfeeding mothers. Always read the label and consult a pharmacist if unsure.

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The Constipation-Hemorrhoid Cycle: Breaking It

Constipation and hemorrhoids have a bidirectional, mutually reinforcing relationship that, if not addressed, keeps both problems cycling. Understanding and interrupting this cycle is central to effective treatment.

How Constipation Worsens Hemorrhoids

• Hard stools are difficult to pass, requiring prolonged straining
• Straining increases intra-abdominal pressure, distending hemorrhoid veins further
• Hard stools passing through the anal canal scrape and traumatise hemorrhoid tissue
• Avoiding bowel movements due to pain leads to longer intervals, giving the colon more time to absorb water from stool, making the next stool harder
• Hard stools can block the opening of thrombosed hemorrhoids, increasing pressure and pain

How Hemorrhoids Worsen Constipation

• Pain with bowel movements causes psychological avoidance and holding on
• The urge to have a bowel movement is suppressed to avoid pain
• Stool sits in the rectum, losing water and becoming harder
• The next attempt is more painful, reinforcing the avoidance cycle

Breaking the Cycle: 6 Key Interventions

1. Stool softeners: Take a stool softener (docusate sodium / Colace) twice daily. This allows water to penetrate the stool, making it softer and easier to pass without straining. Safe while breastfeeding.

2. Osmotic laxatives: If stool softeners are not sufficient, a short course of an osmotic laxative (macrogol / Movicol, or lactulose) can help. These work by drawing water into the colon, softening stool. Speak to your GP or pharmacist about options.

3. High-fibre diet: As described in the next section, fibre adds bulk and draws water into stool, making it softer.

4. The squat position: Elevate your feet on a small stool when using the toilet. This straightens the recto-anal angle, making evacuation easier with less straining. This single intervention can make an enormous difference.

5. Do not delay: When you feel the urge, go immediately. Delaying allows more water absorption and worsens constipation.

6. Physical movement: Gentle walking and movement stimulate gut motility. Even short walks help prevent constipation.

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Diet, Fibre, and Hydration Strategy

Fibre: The Foundation of Prevention

Dietary fibre adds bulk to stool and draws water into it, creating softer, easier-to-pass stools. There are two types — and you need both:

Soluble fibre: Dissolves in water to form a gel. Sources: oats, barley, psyllium, lentils, apples, carrots, flaxseed. This type is particularly helpful for softening stool.

Insoluble fibre: Does not dissolve and adds bulk to stool by resisting digestion. Sources: whole grains, wheat bran, nuts, seeds, vegetables, fruit skins. This type adds bulk and speeds transit.

Target: 25-35g of fibre per day. Most Western diets provide only 12-18g — new mothers are often eating on the run, making this even harder.

Practical fibre sources for a new mother:

• Overnight oats with chia seeds and berries for breakfast
• Whole grain toast with nut butter
• Apples, pears, and bananas (with skin where possible)
• Raw carrot and celery sticks with hummus for snacks
• Lentil soup or bean chilli for lunch or dinner
• Ground flaxseed sprinkled on porridge, yoghurt, or salads

Psyllium Husk

Psyllium (Metamucil, Fybogel) is a soluble fibre supplement that is particularly effective for softening stool and promoting regularity. One tablespoon in a large glass of water daily can make a significant difference. Start with a smaller dose and increase gradually to avoid bloating.

Hydration

Dehydration is a major driver of constipation. When the body is dehydrated, it draws water from the colon, hardening stool. Target at least 2 litres of water per day — more if breastfeeding, exercising, or in a warm environment.

Practical tips: Keep a large water bottle with you at all times. Set a reminder to drink. Herbal teas count toward your fluid intake. Warm water with lemon in the morning stimulates gut motility.

Foods to Limit

• Processed and refined foods (white bread, pasta, biscuits) — low in fibre
• Excessive dairy (can constipate some people)
• Red meat in large quantities
• Fried and highly processed foods
• Excessive caffeine (can dehydrate)

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When Hemorrhoids Need Medical Attention

While most postpartum hemorrhoids improve with conservative care, some situations require professional medical input.

Seek Immediate Medical Care If:

• Heavy rectal bleeding — flooding the toilet, soaking through pads, or passing clots larger than a plum. While this may be from a thrombosed hemorrhoid or tear, it requires assessment to rule out other causes and address blood loss.
• Severe pain not controlled by ibuprofen and paracetamol after 48-72 hours of appropriate home treatment.
• Signs of infection — fever above 38°C with rectal pain, spreading redness, or foul discharge.
• Prolapsed hemorrhoid that cannot be pushed back in (grade 3 or 4 hemorrhoid causing significant discomfort).

See a GP (Non-Urgent) If:

• Bleeding persists beyond 7-10 days or recurs after initial improvement
• Pain does not improve with conservative management within 2 weeks
• You have recurring hemorrhoids with each bowel movement
• You have any faecal incontinence (inability to control gas or stool)
• You notice a change in bowel habits, weight loss, or other systemic symptoms alongside the hemorrhoids

What the GP Will Do

• Perform a visual and digital rectal examination (they will use lubrication and be gentle)
• Confirm the diagnosis and rule out other causes of rectal bleeding
• Prescribe stronger topical treatments if needed
• Refer to a colorectal or specialist if the hemorrhoids require procedural treatment

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Medical Treatments Beyond Creams

If conservative treatment fails, several office-based and surgical procedures can eliminate problematic hemorrhoids.

Office Procedures

These are performed in a clinic setting and do not require a hospital stay.

Rubber Band Ligation (RBL): A small rubber band is placed around the base of the hemorrhoid, cutting off its blood supply. The hemorrhoid shrinks and falls off within a few days. Particularly effective for internal grade 2 and 3 hemorrhoids. Can be done in the postpartum period but requires discussion with your specialist.

Sclerotherapy: A chemical solution is injected into the hemorrhoid, causing it to shrink. Used for smaller internal hemorrhoids.

Infrared Coagulation (IRC): A targeted beam of infrared light causes the hemorrhoid tissue to coagulate and shrink. Less commonly used than RBL.

Cryotherapy: Freezing the hemorrhoid tissue — less commonly performed now.

Surgical Options

Surgery (haemorrhoidectomy) is reserved for severe or recurrent cases. The most common technique removes the hemorrhoid tissue directly. Recovery involves significant discomfort for 2-3 weeks but has the best long-term outcomes.

For postpartum women, surgery is usually deferred unless symptoms are severe and have not improved after 3-6 months of conservative care, allowing time for the postpartum hormonal and vascular changes to resolve naturally.

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Preventing Postpartum Hemorrhoids from Worsening

The Golden Rules

1. Never strain. Use a footstool, go when you feel the urge, and allow time.
2. Keep stools soft. Adequate fibre, hydration, and stool softeners prevent hard stools.
3. Avoid sitting on the toilet for long periods. Once you have finished, get up. Do not read on the toilet — this habit extends sitting time unnecessarily.
4. Wear loose, breathable underwear. Cotton underwear allows air circulation and reduces moisture, which worsens irritation.
5. Avoid heavy lifting. Straining with heavy lifting puts direct pressure on the hemorrhoid veins.
6. Do pelvic floor exercises. Strengthening the pelvic floor improves circulation in the rectal region and reduces hemorrhoid symptoms.
7. Stay active. Gentle walking promotes gut motility and prevents constipation.
8. Use a peri bottle for cleaning. Patting or wiping with dry toilet paper is abrasive.
9. Apply witch hazel or barrier cream after bathing or bowel movements to protect the tissue.
10. Do not ignore bleeding. Persistent bleeding requires medical assessment to rule out other causes — including colorectal conditions unrelated to hemorrhoids.

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Thrombosed Hemorrhoids: What to Know

A thrombosed external hemorrhoid occurs when a blood clot forms within an external hemorrhoid vein. It is not dangerous, but it is intensely painful.

What It Looks and Feels Like

• A firm, blue-purple or dark red lump at the anal margin
• Intense, sharp pain that is worst in the first 48-72 hours
• Tender to touch, sometimes too painful to sit
• May feel like there is a "marble" or "grape" under the skin at the anal edge

Timeline

Without medical intervention, a thrombosed hemorrhoid will naturally begin to reabsorb within 7-10 days. Pain peaks in the first 48-72 hours, then gradually decreases. By 2-3 weeks, most thrombosed hemorrhoids have resolved significantly.

Treatment Options

Conservative (most common for postpartum): Pain management (ibuprofen, paracetamol), cold compresses, sitz baths, stool softeners to prevent straining, and time.

Incision and clot removal: A surgeon can make a small incision and remove the clot under local anaesthetic. This provides rapid pain relief but is reserved for the most severe cases (where pain is completely debilitating and not controlled by medication) because it carries a small risk of infection and wound complications.

Excision: Complete surgical removal — reserved for recurrent thrombosed hemorrhoids. Not typically offered for a first episode in a postpartum mother.

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FAQ: Postpartum Hemorrhoids

Are hemorrhoids common after childbirth?

Yes — extremely common. Up to 50% of women experience symptomatic hemorrhoids in the immediate postpartum period. Vaginal delivery with prolonged pushing significantly increases risk, and forceps or vacuum-assisted deliveries push the rate even higher.

How long do postpartum hemorrhoids last?

Most postpartum hemorrhoids improve significantly within 1-2 weeks with appropriate conservative treatment. By 6-8 weeks postpartum, the majority have resolved completely. Internal hemorrhoids that prolapsed during pushing may take longer to shrink back to their pre-pregnancy state.

What cream is safe while breastfeeding for hemorrhoids?

Most over-the-counter hemorrhoid creams are safe while breastfeeding. Zinc oxide-based creams (Anusol, Sudocrem) are inert and safe for ongoing use. Hydrocortisone 1% creams are safe for short-term use (up to 7 days). Phenylephrine-based products (Preparation H) are generally safe short-term. Always check with your pharmacist if unsure, and avoid any product containing ephedrine or phenylephrine.

Can constipation make hemorrhoids worse?

Yes — the relationship is bidirectional. Straining puts direct pressure on hemorrhoid vessels, worsening swelling and pain. Hard stools passing through the anal canal also scrape and irritate existing hemorrhoids. Conversely, hemorrhoid pain leads to avoidance of bowel movements, causing constipation. Breaking this cycle with stool softeners, high-fibre diet, hydration, and the squat position is central to treatment.

When do I need to see a doctor for hemorrhoids?

See a GP urgently if you have heavy rectal bleeding, severe pain not controlled by over-the-counter medication after 48-72 hours, signs of infection (fever with rectal pain and redness), or a prolapsed hemorrhoid that cannot be pushed back in. See a GP non-urgently if bleeding persists beyond 7-10 days, pain does not improve within 2 weeks, or hemorrhoids recur regularly.

Does sitting make postpartum hemorrhoids worse?

Yes — prolonged sitting increases pressure on the perianal veins and can slow blood return from the hemorrhoid tissue, potentially worsening swelling and discomfort. This is why sitting for extended periods is one of the key things to avoid in the early postpartum days. When you do need to sit, use a cushion with a central hole or channel (a perineal recovery cushion or a nursing pillow) to reduce direct pressure on the hemorrhoid tissue. If possible, alternate between sitting and lying on your side throughout the day. Short, frequent position changes are far better than long stretches in one position. The goal is to minimise sustained pressure while allowing the swelling to resolve.

Should I use cold compresses or warm compresses for postpartum hemorrhoids?

Both can be helpful, but at different stages of the healing process. Cold compresses (ice packs wrapped in cloth, or frozen peas) work best in the first 48-72 hours when swelling is at its peak — cold causes vasoconstriction, which reduces blood pooling in the hemorrhoid vessels and provides numbing pain relief. Apply for 10-15 minutes several times per hour. Once acute swelling has stabilised (after the first few days), warm compresses and sitz baths become more beneficial — warmth increases blood flow to the area, which promotes healing and helps the body reabsorb the pooled blood more efficiently. Many women find the most effective approach is cold compresses for the first few days followed by warm sitz baths for the next few weeks of recovery.

	Cold Compresses	Warm Compresses / Sitz Baths
Best for	Acute swelling, first 48-72 hours, numbing pain	Promoting healing, after acute phase
Mechanism	Vasoconstriction — reduces blood pooling	Increased blood flow — promotes healing
How to apply	Ice pack or frozen peas, 10-15 min, several times/hour	Warm water sitz bath, 10-15 min, 2-4 times/day
Pain relief	Yes — numbing effect	Moderate — muscle relaxation

Can postpartum hemorrhoids come back after they have healed?

Yes — hemorrhoids can recur, particularly if the underlying factors that contributed to their development are not addressed. After birth, the venous pressure that caused the hemorrhoids has resolved, and most women find their hemorrhoids shrink significantly or disappear entirely within 6-8 weeks. However, if constipation and straining become a regular pattern (from inadequate fibre, poor hydration, or inactivity), hemorrhoids can develop again. The best prevention for recurrence is maintaining soft stools through adequate fibre (25-35g daily), hydration (at least 2 litres daily), and regular physical activity. Women who had severe hemorrhoids during pregnancy or labour are at somewhat higher lifetime risk and benefit most from these preventive habits. If hemorrhoids recur after full postpartum recovery, see your GP to rule out other causes and discuss management options.

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Sources

1. American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists. "Practice Bulletin No. 128: Diagnosis and Management of Hemorrhoids." Obstetrics & Gynecology, 120(3), 2012.

2. Abramowitz, L., et al. "Diagnosis and Treatment of Hemorrhoids." Journal of Visceral Surgery, 150(3), 2013.

3. Lohsiriwat, V. "Hemorrhoids: From Basic Pathophysiology to Clinical Management." World Journal of Gastroenterology, 18(17), 2012.

4. National Health Service. "Piles (Haemorrhoids)." NHS UK. https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/piles-haemorrhoids/

5. Snead, J.W., et al. "Perineal Trauma in Childbirth and the Development of Postpartum Hemorrhoids." International Journal of Colorectal Disease, 34(3), 2019.

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This article is for informational purposes only and does not replace professional medical advice. If you have concerns about postpartum hemorrhoids, consult your GP, midwife, or healthcare provider.

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About the Author: Dr. Emily Watson is a Women's Health Physiotherapist with over 15 years of experience supporting new mothers through pregnancy, birth, and postpartum recovery. She holds a specialist interest in pelvic floor health and works with families in both NHS and private practice settings in the UK.

Last updated: April 2026