Preventing hemorrhoids during pregnancy

This multicenter, randomized clinical trial aimed to evaluate the effectiveness of specific dietary and behavioral interventions in preventing hemorrhoids during pregnancy. Conducted across three clinical centers, the study included 260 pregnant women who were randomly allocated into intervention and control groups. The intervention group received structured counseling on diet and behavior, including recommendations to consume a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and fluids, along with regular exercise and specific defecation practices.
The primary outcome, the rate of hemorrhoids at the time of discharge from the obstetrics unit, was significantly lower in the intervention group compared to the control group. The intervention group also demonstrated a lower miscarriage rate, although this difference was not statistically significant. Binary logistic regression analysis identified the intervention as a significant protective factor against hemorrhoids. A history of hemorrhoids before pregnancy and increased newborn height were associated with a higher risk of developing hemorrhoids postpartum.
This study highlights that specific dietary and behavioral modifications can effectively reduce the incidence of hemorrhoids in pregnant women, suggesting that such interventions should be incorporated into prenatal care routines to improve maternal outcomes.