dare not say its name

Filed Under Pregnancy and Birthing, Stuff, Tips & Tricks | June 18, 2009

One of the bonding experiences of pregnancy is comparing your pregnancy discomforts with other pregnant mamas – swollen ankles, heartburn and back pain – but there is one very uncomfortable “discomfort” that doesn’t come up very often in polite conversation. That’d be hemorrhoids.

Hemorrhoids are very common during the late stages of pregnancy and can plague your early post-partum days as well. They’re swollen blood vessels, in your rectal area causing everything from mild itching to severe discomfort and sometimes rectal bleeding.

Why are pregnant women more prone to hemorrhoids? Not only does your ever-expanding uterus put pressure on your pelvic veins which can increase the pressure on the veins below your uterus causing them to become more swollen, but constipation during pregnancy, aggravated by an increase of progesterone in your system, can also cause or aggravate hemorrhoids.

So what’s an uncomfy pregnant mama to do? You can keep the area clean and try a sitz bath or icing, but sometimes you’ll need a little extra help. Vancouver company Théra Wise has created HmR – Bio Active Hemorrhoidal Ointment which uses plant source ingredients such as Witch Hazel, Chamomile and Aloe to reduce inflammation, regenerate and protect your delicate skin “down there” and promote healthy circulation which reduces throbbing and pain.

This is in contrast to more traditional petroleum-based hemorrhoid ointments which merely act as lubricants for bowel movements and may contain analgesic and chemical-based anti-inflammatory ingredients. Petroleum-based lotions and potions also tend to strip skin of its natural oils and their barrier properties don’t allow the skin to breathe, which is necessary for its healthy functioning and repair.

Our heavily pregnant tester preferred not to go into details, but she did find that HmR was soothing and effective and helped relieve her hemorrhoids. In fact she’s packed it in her hospital bag.

Oh, and like the rumours we’d heard about a certain big name brand hemorrhoid cream making a great under-eye cream, we’ve heard the same about HmR. So we tested it on our eyes and it helped make us look less tired, a boon for any mama. Théra Wise also makes SHO – Bio Active Skin Healing Ointment which is great for treating rashes, burns and eczema and VpR – Bio Active Vaporizing Decongestant Rub which helps relieve cough and cold symptoms. We’ll be keeping our medicine cabinet stocked with their products.

Théra Wise: www.therawise.com

Please note: while all Théra Wise products are safe for pregnant and breastfeeding mums, please consult a qualified health care practitioner before using a new product.