By: Jenna Thompson
When it comes to discussing our, ahem, rear ends, many of us tend to squirm or blush. But let’s face it, we all have them, we all do our business, and we must keep everything down there in good health. The process of elimination should be smooth sailing, not a painful ordeal that leaves you feeling like you’re being turned inside out.
If you’ve given birth, or maybe even a few times, you’re probably familiar with the delightful discomfort known as hemorrhoids. Yes, those pesky little bumps that can make you question whether you should rush to the doctor, grab some soothing wipes, or just hide away forever because the thought of discussing this is utterly mortifying. Hemorrhoids can be particularly common during pregnancy and childbirth—talk about a cruel twist of fate!
Take it from someone who once endured the agony of not being able to go for 10 days post-childbirth due to a nasty flare-up. Let me tell you, it was an absolute nightmare. And it’s not just women who suffer from these uncomfortable nuisances; men can get them too, even if they don’t have to deal with the joys of childbirth. Pushing out a baby or enduring that wild college lifestyle might increase the odds for women, but guys can have their own set of butt troubles too.
If you’ve ever experienced the not-so-pleasant sensations of pain, itching, and burning in that sensitive area, you’re definitely not alone. Dr. Michael Jensen, a gastroenterologist, shared that around 50% of people will deal with hemorrhoid flare-ups by the time they hit 50. Yes, you read that right—half of the population!
Here’s a fun fact: everyone has hemorrhoids! That’s right; they’re part of our normal anatomy. We actually have three: one on the left and two on the right. So if you’re lying on your left side, those little guys are positioned at 2, 6, and 10 o’clock. Now that we’ve got that out of the way, let’s stop feeling embarrassed and take control of our health.
The main culprits behind these unwelcome guests are changes in bowel habits, like constipation or diarrhea, as well as straining during bowel movements. Dr. Jensen points out that labor and even pregnancy can exacerbate the issue. Lucky us, right?
To keep your behind in tip-top shape, Dr. Jensen recommends a diet rich in fiber and staying hydrated, not just when you feel the burn. If you’re experiencing symptoms like blood in your stool, severe discomfort, or relentless itching that over-the-counter remedies aren’t fixing, it’s time to consult a healthcare professional. No one should have to walk around with their “burning butt candy” causing such distress.
On a serious note, don’t suffer in silence. Treatments for hemorrhoids have improved significantly in recent years and can be both effective and easy. So, do yourself a favor: tackle the discomfort these little nuisances bring. After all, we have enough challenges in life without adding hemorrhoids to the mix.
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Summary
Hemorrhoids are a common and uncomfortable side effect of pregnancy, affecting both men and women. Changes in bowel habits can trigger flare-ups, and treatment options have become more effective over the years. Maintaining a high-fiber diet and staying hydrated can help prevent issues. Don’t hesitate to seek medical help if symptoms persist.