Postpartum hemorrhoids are swollen blood vessels located in the rectum or anus that commonly occur following childbirth. Also known as “piles,” they result from increased pressure on the veins in the lower pelvic region. This condition is a frequent, though temporary, complication for new mothers. Understanding how long these hemorrhoids last and what measures can be taken is an important part of postpartum recovery.
Why Hemorrhoids Develop After Childbirth
The development of hemorrhoids after delivery is primarily due to two factors that increase pressure on the veins surrounding the anus and rectum. During pregnancy, the growing uterus places significant weight on the pelvic veins, slowing blood flow and causing the vessels to swell.
Compounding this pressure is the intense physical effort of labor and delivery, especially the prolonged pushing stage. This straining dramatically increases pressure on the anal canal, which can cause existing hemorrhoids to worsen or new ones to form. Hemorrhoids are categorized as either internal or external, with external ones often causing more noticeable pain.
Expecting a Healing Timeline
The duration of postpartum hemorrhoids varies greatly depending on their severity and location. For many new mothers, mild cases of hemorrhoids begin to show improvement within a few days of delivery with the consistent application of home care. The swelling and discomfort will often resolve completely within the first week.
More significant or persistent hemorrhoids, particularly those that began earlier in pregnancy, may take longer to fully shrink. It is common for these cases to require several weeks, sometimes up to four to six weeks postpartum, before the symptoms disappear. Consistency with conservative home treatments is the primary factor in accelerating this recovery.
A distinct type is the thrombosed external hemorrhoid, which involves a blood clot forming within the swollen vein. These are often intensely painful, but the pain itself typically peaks within the first 24 to 48 hours and usually subsides significantly within a week to ten days as the body begins to absorb the clot. While the pain improves relatively quickly, the lump and residual swelling may take two to three weeks or sometimes longer to completely resolve.
Immediate Comfort and Home Treatments
Several effective and actionable strategies can be implemented immediately at home to manage pain and promote the healing of postpartum hemorrhoids. Soaking the affected area in a sitz bath is a highly recommended method for soothing irritation and reducing swelling. This involves sitting in a few inches of warm (not hot) water, typically for 10 to 15 minutes, a few times daily.
Applying cold therapy can also provide immediate relief by temporarily numbing the area and constricting blood vessels. An ice pack wrapped in a soft cloth or a cold compress containing witch hazel can be applied to the area for 10 to 20 minutes, a few times per day. Witch hazel, an astringent, is particularly useful for reducing swelling and discomfort.
Managing bowel movements is also a major focus, as straining can worsen the condition. Consuming a high-fiber diet rich in whole grains, fruits, and vegetables helps to soften the stool and increase its bulk. New mothers should ensure they are drinking plenty of water, as hydration is necessary for preventing hard stools and constipation.
If dietary changes are insufficient, over-the-counter stool softeners can be taken to ensure bowel movements are passed without excessive effort. Topical creams and ointments, often containing ingredients like hydrocortisone or lidocaine, are available to temporarily relieve itching, pain, and inflammation. These should only be used for short durations, usually a week or less, to avoid potential skin irritation.
Proper hygiene is important to prevent further irritation and aid recovery. After a bowel movement, gently cleaning the anal area with warm water from a peri bottle or using unscented, moistened wipes is gentler than using dry toilet paper. New mothers should avoid sitting for long, uninterrupted periods, as this increases pressure; instead, lying down or using a specialized cushion can help relieve the inflamed area.
When Medical Intervention is Necessary
While most postpartum hemorrhoids improve with consistent home care, certain signs indicate that a doctor’s evaluation is necessary. You should consult a healthcare provider promptly if you experience any of the following:
- Hemorrhoids do not begin to shrink or symptoms fail to improve after a week of dedicated at-home treatment.
- Pain is severe and unrelenting.
- A hard, painful lump suddenly appears, which may signal a thrombosed hemorrhoid.
- Significant rectal bleeding. While some light spotting can be expected, persistent or heavy bleeding requires a medical check-up.
- Any signs of infection, such as fever, chills, or pus draining from the area.