Are anterior anal fissures common in women after delivery?

A woman’s body greatly changes during and after pregnancy. The weight gain is often the most noticeable. However, there are also other changes that may arise due to pregnancy – one of which is anterior anal fissures. Pregnant women often ask are anterior anal fissures common in women after delivery. The answer to that question is yes, it is normal to have such after delivery. Up to a third of women develop anterior anal fissures and external hemorrhoids due to pregnancy.

An anal fissure is a tear, ulcer or crack located in the lining of the anal tract. It is often characterized by a tear, ulcer or crack in the anal area, a malodorous discharge, a burning or itching sensation around the area, pain heightened during bowel movements and streaks of fresh blood on the stool or on the tissue after wiping.

Anal fissure is usually caused by constipation, repeated and prolonged diarrhea, straining during childbirth, and decreased blood flow in the anal area. It can also be caused by sexually transmitted diseases, tuberculosis and anal cancer.

There are medications to cure this condition. However, a pregnant woman cannot just take medicine without consulting a physician. Medications may have adverse effects on the unborn baby. Hence, it is thus advisable to do home remedies at the mean time.

The following are some home remedies a pregnant woman could take to ease the signs and symptoms of anal fissures during pregnancy:

• Olive Oil

As with other oils, olive oil is rich in fat. Thus it lubricates the anal area for easier bowel movement. Aside from that, it also contains a lot of antioxidants. It also has anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties.

To use olive oil, first mix it with equal amounts of honey or beeswax. Then heat the said mix together. Allow it to cool then apply it over the anal area.

• Sitz Bath

Sitz bath is the type of bath where a tub is filled with warm water. Sitting in a tub with warm water for at least 10 to 15 minutes twice a day will reduce the swelling, itching and pain in the anal area.

• Aloe Vera

Aloe Vera is a famous home treatment for cuts. It can also be used to relieve the symptoms of anal fissure. To use this home remedy, get one aloe vera leaf. Cut it lengthwise and scoop the gel inside. Apply such gel directly onto to area.

• Coconut oil

Like olive oil, coconut oil is also rich in fat. The oil easily permeates the skin hence keeping the area supple and lubricated. Application of coconut oil in the anal area will also promote healing. For those experiencing constipation and other bowel movement syndromes, the addition of coconut oil in the diet will also do wonders.

• Flax seed

Flax seed is rich in omega fatty acids and alpha-linolenic acid (ALA). It is also very high in fiber. Aside from that, it also contains selenium, phosphorus, vitamin B1, magnesium and manganese. Flax seed, when taken orally, will improve digestion and prevent constipation.

When asked with the question ‘are anterior anal fissures common in women after delivery’, most doctors would likely say yes. However, pregnant women need not worry as there are a lot of medications and home remedies to address this condition.