During pregnancy, a woman’s body goes through numerous changes and challenges. And while most expectant mothers know to expect certain physical and emotional changes throughout their pregnancy, others may come as an uncomfortable surprise. Rectal bleeding during pregnancy is a common occurrence that many pregnant women experience — keep reading to learn more about the causes of rectal bleeding and find out when to seek medical treatment.
What Causes Rectal Bleeding During Pregnancy?
There are lots of medical conditions in which rectal bleeding can occur. If you notice blood in your stool or on your toilet paper, you may want to explore some of these issues and discuss them with your doctor. What is important to understand from the outset is that, while rectal bleeding during pregnancy is often benign, it should never simply be dismissed or ignored. Some causes are manageable at home, while others may signal a condition that deserves prompt medical attention.
Hemorrhoids
More often than not, rectal bleeding during pregnancy is caused by hemorrhoids. Hemorrhoids are swollen blood vessels located in the rectal area and are often the result of straining during a bowel movement or sitting for long periods of time on the toilet. During pregnancy, the growing uterus places significant pressure on the veins in the pelvic region, which makes hemorrhoids considerably more common in expectant mothers than in the general population.
Although they can be alarming and painful, hemorrhoids are typically not a cause for serious concern on their own. However, recurring or worsening hemorrhoid bleeding should still be discussed with a healthcare provider.
Frequent constipation or diarrhea
Nearly half of all pregnant women experience constipation and diarrhea at some point during their pregnancy. This is caused by a combination of factors including stress, increased progesterone hormones, abdominal pressure from the growing baby, decreased physical activity, and irregular iron levels from prenatal supplements.
These bowel changes place significant strain on the anus and surrounding tissue, which can cause small tears known as anal fissures, as well as rectal bleeding. Managing the underlying digestive issue is key to reducing this type of bleeding.
Vitamin deficiencies
Vitamin deficiencies are the culprit of many issues throughout pregnancy. As the body prepares for the fetus’s development and the eventual breastfeeding process, the mother’s nutritional needs increase substantially. If a mother isn’t eating enough or supplementing her diet appropriately with vitamins, this can lead to constipation or diarrhea which can, in turn, cause rectal bleeding.
Common deficiencies during pregnancy include iron, magnesium, and vitamin D, all of which can directly affect digestive regularity. Ensuring adequate nutritional intake through diet and safe supplementation is one of the most effective ways to prevent these issues.
Food cravings
During pregnancy, women often experience intense food cravings that result in dietary patterns that differ dramatically from their usual habits. If your diet while pregnant varies drastically from what you are accustomed to eating — for example, consuming more processed foods, red meats, or foods low in fiber — this can cause digestive disruption that may lead to constipation, diarrhea, and ultimately rectal bleeding. Being mindful of nutritional balance even when navigating cravings helps protect digestive health throughout the pregnancy.
Food cravings
Beyond hemorrhoids, anal fissures are another common cause of rectal bleeding during pregnancy. These are small tears in the lining of the anus that occur as a result of constipation and the passing of hard or large stools. Unlike hemorrhoids, which tend to bleed without much pain, anal fissures are often accompanied by a sharp burning or stinging sensation during and after bowel movements. The presence of bright red blood on toilet paper alongside significant discomfort is often a clue that a fissure, rather than a hemorrhoid, may be the source.
Can I Prevent Rectal Bleeding?
If you are experiencing frequent rectal bleeding throughout your pregnancy, there are several measures you can take to make for a more comfortable pregnancy moving forward. To avoid or prevent the worsening of hemorrhoids and anal fissures, implement some lifestyle changes to help you stay regular and avoid strained bowel movements:
Eat a high-fiber diet
Eat a diet rich in foods like whole-grain cereals and bread, as well as fruits and vegetables. Fiber adds bulk to stool and helps it pass more easily, significantly reducing the need for straining. Avoid heavily processed or excessively sugary foods where possible, as these slow digestion and contribute to constipation.
Drink plenty of water
Dehydration is a key contributor to constipation throughout pregnancy. By drinking an adequate amount of water each day — at least 8 to 10 cups for most pregnant women — you will help maintain comfortable, regular bowel movements. Herbal teas and broths can also contribute to fluid intake if plain water feels unappealing.
Exercise regularly
Partake in low-impact activities to help ease constipation and support healthy digestion. Workouts like walking, swimming, and prenatal yoga help keep the digestive system moving without putting excess strain on the lower abdominal muscles. Even a short daily walk can make a meaningful difference in regularity and help prevent pregnancy complications related to digestive health.
Take bathroom breaks as needed
If you feel the urge to go, do not hold it. Holding a bowel movement when you feel the urge can lead to harder stool and straining later on. Take bathroom breaks as needed and avoid rushing, as this reduces the temptation to strain.
Take a prenatal vitamin
Prenatal vitamins help prevent the vitamin deficiencies that can disrupt digestive regularity and contribute to constipation. However, iron supplements in particular can worsen constipation for some women, so speak with your healthcare provider about the best formulation for your digestive tolerance.
Use a stool softener
Ask your healthcare provider if they can recommend some pregnancy-safe stool softeners to help ease constipation. Many over-the-counter options are considered safe during pregnancy, but always confirm with your doctor before taking any new medication or supplement while pregnant.
How to Soothe Pain From Rectal Bleeding?
There are several home treatments for bleeding and discomfort caused by hemorrhoids and anal fissures during pregnancy. If you are experiencing rectal pain or soreness, you may find it helpful to use a cold compress in the first 24 to 48 hours to reduce swelling, followed by a warm compress or sitz bath to relax the surrounding tissue and encourage healing. Soaking in a shallow, warm bath for 10 to 15 minutes two to three times daily is one of the most effective and safe ways to relieve hemorrhoid discomfort during pregnancy.
You should also invest in high-quality, soft toilet paper or fragrance-free flushable wipes to avoid unnecessary irritation to the already sensitive area. Vigorous wiping is a common trigger for both hemorrhoid aggravation and fissure worsening, so gentle patting motions are always preferable.
Your doctor may also be able to provide a safe topical cream to aid in hemorrhoid relief by soothing inflammation and reducing discomfort. These medications are typically intended for short-term usage, so follow your provider’s guidance carefully on duration and application.If your discomfort is accompanied by significant abdominal pressure, cramping, or any type of lower pelvic pain alongside the rectal bleeding, it is important to have that combination of symptoms evaluated. Understanding when abdominal pain warrants a trip to the ER can help you decide whether your symptoms call for urgent attention beyond at-home comfort measures.
When Should I See a Doctor About Bleeding Hemorrhoids and Anal Fissures?
Be sure to see a medical professional if you notice bright red blood on your toilet paper or underwear and are uncertain of the source. Although rectal bleeding during pregnancy is usually harmless, it may be difficult to tell whether the blood is coming from your rectum or your vagina. Vaginal bleeding during pregnancy can have a very different set of causes and implications, some of which require immediate medical evaluation.
If you feel that you are bleeding excessively, if the bleeding does not stop after a bowel movement, or if you are experiencing symptoms that feel beyond the scope of normal hemorrhoid discomfort, seek care promptly. Village Emergency Centers’ women’s health emergency care team is experienced in evaluating pregnancy-related complications, including bleeding concerns, and can help you determine the source and severity of what you are experiencing.
Additionally, seek immediate emergency care if your rectal bleeding is accompanied by any of the following:
- Severe abdominal or pelvic pain
- Heavy or continuous vaginal bleeding
- Fever or chills
- Dizziness or lightheadedness
- A noticeable decrease in fetal movement
- Signs of rectal prolapse or protrusion from the anal area
These symptoms together may indicate a more serious pregnancy complication that requires prompt diagnostic evaluation, including ultrasound and blood work, rather than watchful waiting at home.
Don’t Wait for Emergency Medical Care
For first-time mothers, pregnancy is full of unknowns — and knowing when something requires emergency attention can feel overwhelming. If you are unsure whether your symptoms are cause for concern, do not hesitate to seek evaluation. Our board-certified physicians at Village Emergency Centers are available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week to help you navigate pregnancy-related symptoms with compassion and expertise. Whether you are nearest to our League City or Jersey Village location, our doors are always open with no wait times. Feel free to contact our team before your visit or simply walk straight in — we are always ready to help.