Postpartum rectal bleeding usually occurs due to hemorrhoids, especially in women who have undergone a vaginal delivery. Hemorrhoids or piles are referred to the inflamed or swollen veins in the areas surrounding the rectum that cause bleeding and discomfort. Some common symptoms of this condition include itching in the rectal area, pain, bowel movements accompanied by bleeding and swelling around the anal region (1). Although this is a common condition, it is advised to consult your doctor and seek medical care. Read on to know more about rectal bleeding after delivery, its symptoms, treatment, and preventative methods.
Causes Of Postpartum Rectal Bleeding
The possible causes of rectal bleeding after delivery include.
Hemorrhoids (swollen veins in the rectum and anus): Hemorrhoids are common during pregnancy, especially in the third trimester and first few weeks after delivery. These swollen veins rupture and bleed as you strain while passing hard stool as a result of postpartum constipation (2) or when you wipe the anal area using a tissue. Image: iStock
Anal fissures: Hard stools could also cause cracks in the skin around the anus, known as anal fissures. These could be painful and cause bleeding (3).
Mya Bellinger, a qualified medical practitioner specializing in internal medicine, immunology, and gynecology, suggests, “Straining to poop may cause postpartum hemorrhage. This may be a result of constipation, which can make the swollen rectal veins bleed. Straining may also result from hard stools, resulting in anal fissures and bleeding.” Therefore, if you have a history of rectal bleeding before pregnancy due to hemorrhoids or anal fissures, inform the obstetrician so that he/she can suggest you medical management for the same as the condition can get aggravated post delivery.
How To Deal With Postpartum Rectal Bleeding?
Here are some of the ways to manage hemorrhoids and anal fissures and soothe postpartum rectal bleeding (2) (4). You can also soak yourself in a bathtub. Relax the anal muscles while soaking in the bathtub. It helps maximize the blood flow and speed up healing. It can also lower the pain associated with bowel movements. If these home treatment measures do not provide you relief from postpartum rectal bleeding, your doctor might prescribe medicines such as stool softeners, opioids, and pain relievers.
When To See A Doctor?
Seek the help of your healthcare provider if you experience the following symptoms:
Significant rectal bleeding that is continuous or heavy Abnormal growths in the anal region Fresh blood in your stools Change in the stool color Pain while passing stool or urinating Lack of control over stool passage Dizziness or shortness of breath
“If you are bleeding heavily or noticing blood in every stool you pass, it could be a cause of concern”, advises Mya Bellinger. Your doctor may schedule lab tests or imaging tests to determine the cause of blood in the stools.
How To Prevent Postpartum Rectal Bleeding?
Take measures to prevent constipation, which could decrease the possibility of postpartum hemorrhoids and anal fissures, the main causes of postpartum rectal bleeding (6). The following measures could help you prevent postpartum rectal bleeding.
Drink enough water and other healthy liquids Eat dietary fiber diet that includes whole-grain products, beans, cereals, fresh fruits, and vegetables in your everyday diet. Image: iStock Limit intake of processed food, meat, and meat products. Listen to your body and attend the nature call when you feel the urge. Maintain a healthy body weight. Take a probiotic supplement or a fiber supplement after checking with your doctor. Do regular exercises, such as walking and swimming, and practice yoga.
Is It Normal To Bleed When You Poop After Having A Baby?
Finding drops or streaks of blood in your postpartum poop, toilet bowl, or tissue during the first few days after childbirth is common. You may also notice it in your panty after you visit the washroom.
