Let's Talk About Haemorrhoids - A Pain In The Butt!

Understanding Haemorrhoids: Causes, Symptoms, and Management

Haemorrhoids – not exactly the kind of thing you bring up over coffee, right? But if you've experienced them, you know how uncomfortable and disruptive they can be. The good news? You're not alone if you have or are experiencing them, and there are effective ways to ease the discomfort and prevent future flare-ups.

What Are Haemorrhoids?

Haemorrhoids (or piles) are swollen, inflamed veins around the back passage. When these veins are healthy, they play a supportive role in comfort and continence. However, when they become irritated, they can cause pain, itching, and swelling – making even everyday tasks feel uncomfortable.

During pregnancy, hormonal changes can cause the walls of the veins to soften and dilate more easily, meaning circulation isn’t as efficient. Blood pools in the vessels and this is what causes the pain, itching, swelling and noticeable ‘lumps’ of haemorrhoids.

How Do You Know If You Have Them?

Haemorrhoids can present with a range of symptoms. Some common signs to watch out for include:

😣 Itching or irritation in the anal region

😣 Pain or discomfort, especially when sitting

😣 Swelling or a lump near your anus

😣 Bleeding during bowel movements (you may notice blood on toilet paper)

😣 Incomplete evacuation, the sensation that you haven't fully emptied your bowel

If any of these sound familiar, it’s worth paying attention to your symptoms and considering steps to address them.

Why Do Haemorrhoids Happen?

There are several common factors that contribute to the development of haemorrhoids, including:

💥 Straining during bowel movements

💥 Chronic constipation or diarrhoea

💥 Sitting for long periods, especially on the toilet

💥 Pregnancy and vaginal birth due to extra perineal load and hormonal changes that soften the vessel walls.

💥 Being overweight, which increases abdominal pressure

💥 Low-fibre diets and dehydration, both of which can lead to harder stools and more straining

Understanding the causes is the first step in preventing and managing haemorrhoids effectively.

The Hidden Impact of Perineal Scars

One often-overlooked contributor to haemorrhoids is scarring from previous perineal tears or episiotomies. Even if a scar has healed well and isn’t causing obvious local discomfort, it can still create tension in surrounding areas of the pelvic floor.

Scarring in the posterior (back) part of the pelvic floor can increase muscular and fascial tension around the anal sphincter region. This increased tension can disrupt circulation and normal bowel movement mechanics, making haemorrhoids more likely to develop or persist.

In my clinic, I frequently find that mobilising and softening scar tissue brings significant relief. Many clients report that their haemorrhoids become less inflamed and far less irritable after we address this hidden tension. It’s a useful reminder that even old scars can have a lasting impact in unexpected ways.

If you've had a perineal tear or episiotomy and are struggling with persistent haemorrhoids, it may be worth exploring whether scar-related tension is contributing to your symptoms.

What Can You Do About Haemorrhoids?

The most effective way to manage haemorrhoids is to address the root causes rather than just treating the symptoms. Here are some practical steps to help:

✅ Manage Scar Tissue: Mobilising and softening tension from previous perineal tears or episiotomies can significantly reduce irritation and discomfort. A Pelvic Floor Physiotherapist can guide you through this process.

✅ Hydrate: Sip water regularly throughout the day to keep stools soft and reduce straining during bowel movements.

✅ Increase Fibre Intake: Eat more fibre-rich foods to ease bowel movements. If you're taking iron supplements (which can cause constipation), be especially vigilant. Use a laxative if needed, with professional guidance.

✅ Move Regularly: Avoid sitting for long periods to promote better circulation and reduce pressure on the anal region.

✅ Toilet Technique: When passing a bowel movement, breathe out as you bear down and use your finger pads to support your perineum. This counter-pressure can reduce strain on haemorrhoids. A Pelvic Floor Physiotherapist can teach you optimal techniques for long-term relief.

✅ During Pregnancy: Consider using a pregnancy support garment to offload some of the abdominal pressure. Perineal support garments can also assist circulation and provide relief.

Helpful Tip

Curious about the best technique for passing a bowel movement? Check out this Instagram reel where I demonstrate optimal pushing techniques to reduce strain and discomfort 👉🏻 Here!

Need Help?

As a Pelvic Health Physiotherapist, I regularly work with clients to manage and relieve haemorrhoids. From targeted exercises to practical lifestyle adjustments, there are many ways to ease discomfort and prevent future flare-ups.

If you're struggling with haemorrhoids, you don't have to suffer in silence. Book an appointment at Down Below Physio Clinic, and let's get you feeling better.

👉🏻 Book Appointment

Your comfort matters, and relief is possible – let’s take the first step together.