Wondering if rectal bleeding normal during pregnancy? Then, you are at the right place. Find out important information on rectal bleeding during pregnancy in this article. Just scroll down..
Experiencing bleeding anytime during pregnancy can be alarming and may cause panic. You need to check whether the bleeding is rectal or vaginal. Vaginal bleeding is considered serious, but many people wonder is rectal bleeding during pregnancy normal? Yes, rectal bleeding is considered quite normal during pregnancy, and is commonly experienced by many pregnant women. Yet, there are some serious causes of rectal bleeding which can be life-threatening, and should be treated as soon as possible.
Is Rectal Bleeding Normal During Pregnancy?
Usually rectal bleeding is not considered serious during pregnancy, but it is important to find out the causes, as it can create a lot of discomfort and pain for the mother-to-be. The bleeding may be observed in the last trimester, or after delivering the baby, but in some women it may also be observed in the early stages of pregnancy. The following are two major causes of rectal bleeding.
- Hemorrhoids is considered very common during pregnancy. It is caused due to the increased weight and levels of progesterone. It is also called piles. Hemorrhoids are enlarged blood vessels which are of the size of raisin and can be even as big as grapes. They are tender to touch and have a thick lumpy form. They are usually observed in the rectal area and get worse due to hard or irritating stool, constipation, wiping or friction. This may lead to bleeding and pain. Its symptoms may consists of itching, pain, burning sensation and bleeding.
- 1 out of 100 women will experience rectal bleeding due to anal fissures. They are cracks on the anal skin which bleed and can be very painful. These cracks are caused by passing hard stools at the time of constipation. The skin may heal but can get cracked again due to hard bowel movement. The woman may observe sharp cutting pain while passing stool, and can even sometimes observe blood in the stool.
By the above given causes you can find out that rectal bleeding can be normal, but in very rare cases, rectal bleeding can also be caused due to polyps or colon cancer. This is found in 1 out of 100,000 pregnant women, and can be life-threatening. So, whenever you observe rectal bleeding make sure the bleeding is from outside and not from inside the rectum. Hence, it is better to consult a doctor to find out the exact reason behind rectal bleeding.
Treatment for Rectal Bleeding During Pregnancy
Once you get to know that the blood you are observing is from the rectal area and not from the vagina you can relax and follow the treatments available. Though this type of bleeding is common, you need to get it treated so as to avoid discomfort and pain. As we have seen that hemorrhoids and anal fissures are related to constipation, hence the first thing to do is to get the constipation treated. Following are some of the treatments on how to stop rectal bleeding.
- Water is the best way to get rid of this problem. Water makes the bowel movement easier and hence protects the rectal skin from anal fissures and hemorrhoids.
- Exercises like kegel exercises which are used to strengthen the anal and vaginal muscles can also be of great help. They increase the blood flow in the rectal area and help in overcoming the problem of hemorrhoids. Pelvic exercises can also be helpful.
- Increase the consumption of fibrous foods like cereals, whole-grain breads, fruits and vegetables. It will result in smooth bowel movement.
- Do not ignore nature’s call in case of bowel movement and urination as a delay may result in the hardening of stool which can be a cause of rectal bleeding.
- Use white, unscented and soft toilet tissues for wiping, as the skin becomes tender due to bleeding. Moistened tissues can be more comfortable.
- Iron supplements may also be responsible for rectal bleeding. Hence, consult your doctor if such is the case.
- You can use cold compress like ice packs to relieve the pain and burning sensation.
- Warm water bath may also be helpful in relieving pain and itching.
If you are not able to get relief from the above given treatment, within two days, then consult a doctor immediately so as to keep yourself and your baby out of any danger. Avoid sitting for a long time as it may elevate the situation. Maintain a healthy diet and follow every instruction of your doctor.
