5 Things a woman needs to know about Hemorrhoids or Piles

Hemorrhoids are swollen veins that occur in and around the anal region. Piles or hemorrhoids are a common condition that is caused due to a variety of factors. Some of the most common factors of piles are constipation, poor diet, sedentary lifestyle, hereditary factors, obesity, pregnancy, etc. Piles are a condition that affects people of both genders equally. However, some studies say that men are slightly more prone to getting piles. Regardless of that, it is not uncommon to see women with piles. In this blog, we are going to discuss a few things that women need to know about piles.

Is it common for women to get piles?

Many women who are affected by piles often think that it is rare for women to get piles. This is not true at all. It is quite common and normal for women to get hemorrhoids. Often times, these hemorrhoids go unnoticed until they become symptomatic.

Are all hemorrhoids painful?

Normally, the anal tissue around the anus does not cause any irritation, itching, or painful protrusions. So, the key culprit here is increased abdominal pressure which causes the veins in the anal region to stretch out, dilate, swell and eventually bleed if left untreated. Depending upon the severity of the piles, people might experience different levels of discomfort.

Aren’t hemorrhoids dangerous?

Very few times pile or hemorrhoids can become complicated and this condition can be painful, it does not cause any severe problems to your overall health. Hemorrhoids are in no way related to cancer. And the only serious concern that arises due to hemorrhoids is excessive bleeding which could lead to anemia. It is also not contagious or infectious.

Should you rush to the doctor if you have hemorrhoids?

Hemorrhoids, as mentioned earlier are not dangerous. Most people dismiss any pain or bleeding in or around the anus as hemorrhoids and get OTC medications to deal with the pain. But it should be noted that many different conditions can have similar symptoms and only a doctor can diagnose your underlying condition correctly. So, if you notice any protrusions around the anal region or streaks of blood in your stool, you should definitely get it checked by a doctor.

Is it normal for women to get hemorrhoids during pregnancy?

The uterus of women enlarges as the fetus develops. As the uterus enlarges, it begins to press against the pelvis which puts pressure on the veins around the anus and rectum. During labor, more pressure is exerted on these veins around the anus and rectum. So it is quite natural for women to get hemorrhoids during pregnancy.