You’re not imagining it. That burning, itching, swollen discomfort “down there” is unfortunately common—and yes, it’s hemorrhoids.
If you’re dealing with hemorrhoids during pregnancy or postpartum, you’re far from alone. Over 40% of pregnant women experience them, especially in the third trimester or after delivery.
But just because it’s common doesn’t mean you should suffer in silence.
Here’s what causes them, how to treat them safely, and what you can do to find relief—gently, naturally, and without making an awkward pharmacy run.
What Causes Hemorrhoids During Pregnancy & Postpartum?
In pregnancy: Hormones slow digestion and growing pressure from your uterus causes veins around your rectum to swell.
Postpartum: Pushing during vaginal delivery, constipation, and recovery strain can make them worse—or cause new ones.
Signs You Might Have Hemorrhoids
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Itching or burning around the anus
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Pain while sitting or going to the bathroom
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Small amounts of blood on the toilet paper
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Swelling or a tender bump near the rectum
It’s uncomfortable and annoying—but there’s relief.
Natural Hemorrhoid Relief That’s Pregnancy & Postpartum-Safe
1. Use Gentle, Cooling Wipes
Ditch dry toilet paper. Instead, reach for wipes that soothe and cleanse without added fragrance or irritants.
Try: Mom's Bottom Balm
These biodegradable wipes are infused with witch hazel, a natural astringent that helps shrink swollen tissue and relieve discomfort. Bonus: they’re flushable, discreet, and great for flare-up relief or daily hygiene.
2. Take Sitz Baths
A warm soak (10–15 minutes) in shallow water can work wonders. Add Epsom salts or postpartum-specific bath soaks to reduce inflammation.
Pro tip: Make it part of your nighttime routine. Use a sitz bath basin over the toilet or fill the tub with a few inches of water.
3. Don’t Sit Too Long
Easier said than done in the newborn phase, we know—but sitting for long periods increases pressure. Use a donut pillow or shift sides frequently while feeding or resting.
4. Stay Hydrated & Eat Fiber
Constipation worsens hemorrhoids. Load up on leafy greens, chia seeds, oatmeal, and plenty of water to keep things moving smoothly.
5. Be Gentle Down There
Avoid harsh soaps or aggressive wiping. And always pat—don’t rub—after using the bathroom or bathing.
Stick to Sorette Approved, fragrance-free, and dermatologist-recommended care, like all the essentials you’ll find in Sorette’s Pregnancy and Postpartum Collection.
When to Call Your Doctor
If your symptoms don’t improve in a few days, if you’re bleeding frequently, or if pain becomes severe, check in with your provider. There are additional treatments available, and you deserve to feel better.
The Bottom Line (Literally)
Hemorrhoids are one of those postpartum “surprises” no one tells you about—but they’re real, they’re common, and they’re totally manageable with the right care.
At Sorette, we’ve got your back (and your bum). Everything we recommend is vetted for ingredient safety, comfort, and real-life effectiveness—because new moms deserve products they can trust.
Shop our Sorette Approved postpartum recovery essentials here
And if you’ve found something that helped you heal? Share it with your fellow mamas. No shame, just solidarity.
