This article provides general information and cannot replace a medical assessment. If you are in doubt about the cause of your symptoms, it is a good idea to speak with your doctor.

Hemorrhoids occur when blood vessels in and around the rectum become enlarged and irritated. This often involves repeated pressure in the area, typically associated with bowel movements, pregnancy, or prolonged straining. Below, you will find a practical overview of the most common causes, what you can do to reduce the risk, and when you should seek help.

The most common "mechanism" behind hemorrhoids is increased pressure on the blood vessels in the lower rectum. This can happen when you:

• strain excessively during bowel movements
• sit on the toilet for extended periods
• experience periods of hard stools (constipation) or frequent diarrhea
• are pregnant (the uterus and hormonal changes can increase pressure in the pelvis)

The more frequently the area is strained, the greater the risk that hemorrhoids will develop or worsen. This does not mean you have done anything "wrong" – but rather that your body is reacting to strain over time.

If you want to prevent hemorrhoids, it is often most effective to make your stools softer and bowel movements easier. Practical measures include:

• Eat more fiber (e.g., whole-grain bread, oats, vegetables, legumes).
• Drink enough fluids for the fiber to work as intended.
• Go to the toilet when you feel the urge, instead of holding it.
• Avoid "extra straining": take your time, but avoid sitting and waiting for a long time.

A more crouched position can make it easier to pass stools without straining as much. For example, by placing your feet on a small stool so your knees are slightly elevated. This is not a guarantee, but for many, it is a practical trick that reduces strain.

During pregnancy, many women develop hemorrhoids because there is often a combination of:

• increased pressure in the abdomen and pelvis
• altered blood circulation
• a tendency for constipation in some pregnant women

Here, it makes particular sense to focus on gentle habits: regular meals with fiber, exercise to the extent that it feels comfortable, and addressing constipation early to avoid repeated periods of hard stools and straining.

Typical symptoms can include itching, irritation, pain at the anal opening, and fresh, red bleeding during bowel movements. Some also experience a bulge that may appear during toilet visits.

Contact a doctor if you:

• have rectal bleeding (especially if it's new for you)
• experience sudden, severe pain
• have symptoms that do not improve or worsen over time
• experience changes in bowel habits, unexplained weight loss, or an affected general condition

Blood in the stool can have several causes, and it is important to have it evaluated – even if hemorrhoids are a common explanation.

If the symptoms are mild, the focus will typically be on reducing irritation and pressure:

• Keep the area clean and dry and avoid harsh wiping.
• Consider lukewarm baths or rinsing if the skin is irritated.
• Prioritize soft stools (fiber, fluids, and good toilet habits).
• Speak with the pharmacy about over-the-counter products if you have discomfort. Always follow the instructions for use and seek medical evaluation if in doubt.

If your hemorrhoids are related to pregnancy or the postpartum period, gentle intimate hygiene can make everyday life more comfortable, especially when the area is sore. A wash bottle for gentle cleaning can be practical, for example, Intimate care wash bottle.

Some also benefit from a hot or cold pack for the intimate area for soreness, for example, Hot Cold Intimate Care Packs.

After childbirth, soft, breathable underwear that doesn't constrict unnecessarily can be comfortable, for example, Washable 2x Maternity Hospital Panties.

• Sundhed.dk, Patienthåndbogen: Hemorrhoids (citizen-oriented information on causes, symptoms, and treatment).
• Sundhed.dk, Lægehåndbogen: Hemorrhoids (professional review of the condition and treatment options).