- With Mayo Clinic obstetrician and medical editor-in-chief
Roger W. Harms, M.D.
read biographyclose windowBiography of
Roger W. Harms, M.D.
Roger W. Harms, M.D.
"Nothing helps people stay healthy more than the power of real knowledge about health." — Dr. Roger Harms
As medical editor-in-chief, Dr. Roger Harms is excited about the potential for MayoClinic.com to help educate people about their health and provide them the tools and information to live healthier lives.
The Auburn, Neb., native has been with Mayo Clinic since 1981 and is board certified in obstetrics and gynecology. Dr. Harms is a consultant and associate professor of obstetrics and gynecology, and his specialty areas include office gynecology, high-risk obstetrics and obstetrical ultrasound.
From 2002 to 2007, Dr. Harms was director for education for Mayo Clinic, Rochester, Minn. Dr. Harms was the 1988 Mayo Medical School Teacher of the Year and served as associate dean for student affairs and academic affairs before taking this leadership role. He is the co-author of the "Mayo Clinic Model of Education." In 2008, Dr. Harms was presented the Distinguished Educator Award, Mayo Clinic, Rochester.
Dr. Harms is vice chair of the Department of Obstetrics & Gynecology and medical editor of the Pregnancy section on this Web site. In addition, Dr. Harms is editor-in-chief of the "Mayo Clinic Guide to a Healthy Pregnancy" book, a month-by-month guide to everything a woman needs to know about having a baby.
"My medical education experience has grown out of a love of teaching, and that is what this site is about," Dr. Harms says. "If any visitor to this site makes a more informed and thus more comfortable decision about his or her health because of the information we provide, we are successful."
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Question
Hemorrhoids during pregnancy: Are there safe treatments?
What kind of treatment can be used for severe hemorrhoids during pregnancy other than a warm bath?
Answer
from Roger W. Harms, M.D.
Hemorrhoids — painful, swollen veins in your anus and rectum — are common during pregnancy. The good news is that they usually improve after the baby is born.
If soaking in warm water doesn't relieve the discomfort of hemorrhoids during pregnancy, try applying an ice pack to the affected area several times a day. Other things that may help:
- Avoid sitting for long periods, which puts pressure on the veins in your anus and rectum. If your job involves sitting, get up and walk around for a few minutes at least once an hour. At home, lie on your side when reading or watching TV.
- Keep your anal area as clean as possible. You may find using pre-moistened wipes more comfortable than using dry toilet paper. Avoid brands with perfumes or alcohol. Another option is to use medicated wipes, such as Tucks Medicated Pads, made specifically for people with hemorrhoids.
- Ask your doctor to recommend a safe suppository or topical anesthetic. There are many over-the-counter hemorrhoid remedies. Be sure to talk to your doctor before trying any of these products during pregnancy.
Constipation is often the main culprit behind hemorrhoids during pregnancy. To relieve constipation, increase fiber in your diet, drink plenty of water and get regular exercise. If needed, fiber supplements and stool softeners are generally safe during pregnancy.
If none of these remedies helps, your hemorrhoids get worse or if you notice any bleeding, consult your doctor.
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