In cases of hemorrhoids in pregnant women, start by favoring foods rich in fiber, and all foods that help avoid constipation, such as flaxseed, for example.
Next, it's recommended to use olive oil soap on the affected area, or to apply pure olive oil with a soaked cotton pad.
Chamomile can also be beneficial; however, it should only be used during the last fifteen days before delivery, in the form of a sitz bath for a quarter of an hour.
In addition, the affected person can eat three dried figs before sleeping, after letting them soak for a few hours in boiled water.
Aloe vera gels and creams will provide relief; and if the pain is very intense, it's recommended to apply an ice cube to the painful area.
What the science says: pregnancy, circulation and heavy legs, fiber and bowel movements
Here is what published research says about the remedies mentioned above, by way of illustration — these studies concern material causes, while healing belongs to Allah.
Pregnancy
Ginger is the go-to natural remedy for pregnancy nausea (J Matern Fetal Neonatal Med, 2022) (J Am Board Fam Med, 2014); dates in late pregnancy help ease labor (Explore, 2021); iron and folic acid levels are monitored (Acta Obstet Gynecol Scand, 2023). Precaution: many plants are not recommended during pregnancy (essential oils, hormonal plants, purgatives, fenugreek) — do not take any supplement without the advice of a midwife or doctor.
Circulation and heavy legs
Horse chestnut extract relieves chronic venous insufficiency according to the Cochrane review (Glob Adv Health Med, 2012); red vine, witch hazel, cypress, and fiber (for hemorrhoids) are the classic remedies, along with walking, elevating the legs, and cool water. Precaution: a leg that suddenly becomes swollen, warm, and painful may indicate phlebitis — this is an emergency; hemorrhoids that bleed regularly deserve a medical exam.
Fiber and bowel movements
A meta-analysis from the American Journal of Clinical Nutrition confirms that fiber supplementation improves stool frequency and chronic constipation in adults (Am J Clin Nutr, 2022); in children, non-drug approaches are validated (J Pediatr, 2022). Vegetables, whole fruits, legumes, barley, flaxseed, or psyllium are good sources. Precaution: increase intake gradually and drink more water — fiber without enough water worsens constipation; avoid enemas and purges without medical advice (Am J Gastroenterol, 2009).
