Pregnancy is a season of profound change — beautiful, powerful, and sometimes uncomfortable. Alongside all the excitement and anticipation, many expecting mothers experience a few unwelcome side effects, like hemorrhoids. These swollen veins around the rectum or anus are surprisingly common, especially in the later trimesters. But what exactly causes them, and what can you do to find relief? At Vessol Health, we’re here to break down the “why” behind pregnancy-related hemorrhoids — and the practical, gentle ways to manage them.
The role of increased pressure
One of the most common causes of hemorrhoids during pregnancy is pressure. As your uterus expands, it places extra weight on the veins in your pelvis and lower rectum. This makes it harder for blood to flow back toward the heart, causing the veins in that area to swell.
That’s why hemorrhoids often appear during the second and third trimesters, when the baby (and belly) are at their largest. It’s the same reason some pregnant people also develop varicose veins in their legs — the circulatory system is working overtime to support both you and your growing baby.
Hormones and circulation changes
Hormones, particularly progesterone, play another major role. Progesterone relaxes blood vessel walls, which improves circulation to support your pregnancy — but also makes veins more prone to stretching and swelling.
This same hormone can slow digestion, which contributes to constipation — one of the top triggers for hemorrhoid flare-ups. Add in the iron supplements often recommended during pregnancy, and it’s easy to see why constipation and hemorrhoids frequently go hand in hand.
Constipation: a key factor
Constipation is one of the biggest culprits behind hemorrhoids, pregnant or not. When bowel movements become difficult or infrequent, straining puts direct pressure on rectal veins, leading to irritation and swelling.
During pregnancy, hormonal shifts, changes in diet, and reduced physical activity can all contribute. For many expecting mothers, constipation becomes the “final straw” that pushes pelvic pressure into a full-blown hemorrhoid flare.
Focusing on regularity — through fiber, hydration, and movement — can make a big difference in keeping things comfortable.
Other contributing factors
While pressure, hormones, and constipation are the main causes, a few other pregnancy-related changes can make hemorrhoids more likely:
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Increased blood volume: More blood flow supports your baby but can overfill veins, causing swelling.
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Prolonged sitting or standing: Staying in one position for too long adds extra strain to the rectal area.
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Labor and delivery: The intense pushing during childbirth can trigger or worsen hemorrhoids.
All of these combine to create a “perfect storm” for hemorrhoids, which is why they’re so common during pregnancy.
Are pregnancy hemorrhoids dangerous?
The good news: hemorrhoids during pregnancy are rarely dangerous. They can cause itching, burning, swelling, or minor bleeding, but they don’t typically pose a risk to you or your baby.
That said, if symptoms are severe or persistent, it’s always worth discussing with your healthcare provider. Heavy bleeding, large external lumps, or intense pain should be professionally evaluated — both to confirm the diagnosis and to ensure there’s no underlying issue mimicking hemorrhoids, like anal fissures.
Finding relief during pregnancy
While you can’t always prevent hemorrhoids during pregnancy, you can definitely reduce discomfort and help flare-ups heal faster. These simple, safe strategies can make a big difference:
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Eat more fiber: Focus on fruits, vegetables, beans, and whole grains to keep stools soft.
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Stay hydrated: Aim for eight glasses of water a day to help fiber do its job.
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Move gently: Walking, swimming, or prenatal yoga improves circulation and relieves pelvic pressure.
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Try sitz baths or cold compresses: Both can ease swelling and calm irritation.
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Change positions often: Avoid sitting or standing for long periods.
At Vessol Health, we often remind patients that comfort is cumulative — small daily habits add up to meaningful relief over time.
Talking to your doctor
It might feel awkward to bring up hemorrhoids, but rest assured — your doctor or midwife has heard it countless times. Hemorrhoids are among the most common pregnancy symptoms, and your provider can recommend safe, pregnancy-approved treatments.
They can also help confirm what’s happening, ruling out other causes and giving you peace of mind. Open communication is always the best approach, especially during a time of so many physical changes.
The bottom line
Hemorrhoids during pregnancy are incredibly common — and almost always temporary. They develop due to increased pelvic pressure, hormonal changes, and constipation, all of which are natural parts of pregnancy.
While they can be uncomfortable, they’re rarely harmful. By staying hydrated, eating a fiber-rich diet, and moving regularly, you can ease symptoms and prevent flare-ups. And if you ever feel unsure or in significant pain, your healthcare provider can offer safe, effective options for relief.
At Vessol Health, we believe pregnancy should be as comfortable and supported as possible. With mindful self-care and gentle prevention, you can focus on what truly matters — nurturing yourself and your growing little one.
