Pain in Anus During Pregnancy: Causes, Symptoms & Treatments

Anus pain during pregnancy is a condition known as proctalgia. It is mainly experienced during the third trimester. However, a pregnant woman may experience pain in anus during early pregnancy, which may be caused due to variety of factors.

The anus is the passageway of the GI tract, which starts from the large intestine and opens at the end of the rectum. It is surrounded by sphincter muscles which tend to tighten and relax with the passage of metabolic waste. Additionally, it also comprises the tailbone and several nerves in the surrounding area.

This article discusses in length the reasons for sharp pain in anus during pregnancy, its causes, symptoms, and treatment.

What can cause pain in anus during pregnancy?

A woman’s body goes through several changes during the course of pregnancy. Several reasons can cause anus pain during pregnancy:

1. Hormonal Changes:

Pregnancy-related hormonal changes tend to slow down the digestive system causing occasional episodes of constipation. As a result, straining while passing stool can cause discomfort and Pain in anus during pregnancy.

2. Sedentary lifestyle:

It is necessary to be active during pregnancy to loosen muscle stiffness. Sitting for a long time can temporarily cause anal Pain. Besides, it can also injure the tailbone, and anal muscles and damage surrounding structures.

3. Haemorrhoids:

A common complication witnessed in pregnant women, it leads to swelling of veins in the anus and rectal region. Haemorrhoids can cause burning and itching sensations along with pain.

4. Anal Fissures:

Prolonged constipation can lead to the tearing of skin in the anus. These can cause sharp pain during and after bowel movements.

5. Anal Spasms:

Also known as proctalgia fugax, it is a condition wherein the pregnant woman may experience sharp anal Pain due to muscle contractions.

6. Enlargement of Uterus:

The uterus tends to enlarge through the nine months of pregnancy. As a result, it tends to put much pressure in anus during pregnancy. Thus, anal pain during pregnancy is common, especially during the third trimester when the baby grows larger, pressuring the anal nerves.

7. Contractions:

Contractions during pregnancy is also a common reason for anal Pain, especially during the third trimester.

What are some symptoms of anus pain?

Symptoms of pain in anus during pregnancy include:

• Discomfort in the anal or rectal region

• Sharp Pain in the anus during the passing of stools

• Bleeding or discoloured discharge

• Formation or lump in the anal area

• Prolonged episodes of constipation

• Itching in the anal area

• Swelling and redness

• Faecal incontinence

• Pain while walking

How to prevent anus pain during pregnancy?

It is important to note that, although there may not be ways to prevent anus pain in pregnancy, there are several ways to reduce the chances.

1. Drink plenty of water:

It is recommended to consume a minimum of 64 ounces of water daily to make it easier to pass stools.

2. Avoid prolonged standing or sitting:

It will help reduce the pressure on the anal region. Besides, it will prevent the risk of haemorrhoids.

3. Eat a high-fibre diet:

Consume plenty of high-fibre-rich foods to prevent constipation.

4. Stay active:

Walking every 30 to 50 minutes will reduce the pressure on nerves and muscles in the anal and lower spine region, thereby preventing anus pain during pregnancy.

5. Avoid wearing tight undergarments:

It is recommended to wear only cotton undergarments to prevent pressure on the anus during pregnancy. Opting for any other material may cause sweating and irritation in the anal region.

6. Do not strain during bowel movements:

Straining can increase the risk of haemorrhoids and anal fissures.

7. Avoid raw and uncooked food:

Unfiltered water and junk food may contain bacteria that can cause diarrhoea. Ensure to eat only cooked food and drink clean water.

It is recommended to consult a healthcare provider before consuming any over-the-counter medications to reduce anal Pain during pregnancy and avoid any reaction to the baby and mother’s health.

You may like: Pelvic Pain in Pregnancy: Symptoms & Treatment

How can I treat anus pain during pregnancy?

Treatment for anus pain in pregnancy will depend on the underlying reason for the pain. Common treatments include:

• Use over-the-counter ointments or creams to reduce pain or swelling

• Take warm baths or use a Seitz bath to soothe discomfort

• Increase fibre intake and drink fluids to prevent constipation

• Only consume medications as prescribed by the medical advisor

• Consult a gynaecologist/ obstetrician to identify the cause of pain.

Home remedies to treat anus pain

Often anus pain during pregnancy can be treated through home remedies. These include:

• Applying ointment like cortisone or lidocaine to reduce pain and irritation

• Wrap an ice pack in a cloth or towel and press it against the anal region. Keep it for 20 minutes and repeat the procedure thrice to four times daily.

• Sit on a sitz bath that is filled with warm water and Epsom salt to relieve Pain

• Medicines like Ibuprofen or acetaminophen can help in temporarily reducing the pain

When to contact a doctor?

There can be multiple reasons for anal pain during pregnancy. Some may be serious, while home remedies can rectify others. However, if the pain is unbearable and accompanied by symptoms like fever, blood in stool, severe constipation or dehydration, it must be brought to the doctor’s notice immediately.

The pain might also be caused due to haemorrhoids, infection, or fissures. Again, timely diagnosis and treatment will help in relieving pain and discomfort caused by pain in anus during pregnancy.