Cole Herbals Blog Articles

Relief for Pregnancy and Postpartum Hemorrhoids: What No One Tells You

What They Don’t Tell You About Afterbirth Aches

Brenda D. shared this story after the birth of her daughter:

My daughter was born on October 11, 2016—and while holding her for the first time felt magical in a way, what came next was not in the baby books.

I remember wincing in pain and looking at the nurse like, “Something tore down there that the doctor didn’t find, right? Because this hurts so bad.” She asked me to be more specific — and after a pause, I mumbled, “My butt.”

She took a look and nodded, “Yep. Hemorrhoid.” Then handed me something to help. But let me tell you… that “something” didn’t do much. A few days later, I was still walking around in pain, dreading the bathroom like it was a torture chamber.

Luckily, I had also talked with Dr. Cole and she had sent me a balm that, at the time, was called Butt Aid (honestly, the name fit). My butt needed all the aid it could get.

I used it with Dr. Cole’s A.M. Pain Balm during the day and P.M. Pain Balm in the evening—because I wasn’t trying to suffer through any more pain. And wow. I could finally go to the bathroom without bracing for impact. Within a few days, the hemorrhoid had shrunk down and I finally felt like myself again. No more lingering pain, no more panic over that part of “down there.”

No one really warns you about this part of postpartum — but I’ll be the one to say it: if you’re dealing with postpartum piles, you’re not alone. And there is relief that actually works.

You’re Not Alone: Hemorrhoids Are Common During and After Pregnancy

If you're navigating pregnancy or postpartum healing, you're not alone in dealing with hemorrhoids:

• During pregnancy: 25–85% of pregnant women develop hemorrhoids, with the highest incidence (61%) occurring in the third trimester.

• Postpartum: Up to 40% of women experience hemorrhoids within the first two days after delivery.

• In the U.S.: With around 3.6 million births annually, an estimated 1.4 million women may deal with postpartum hemorrhoids each year.

Risk factors include prolonged straining during labor, high birthweight babies, instrumental deliveries, and a history of anal conditions.

Four Natural Ways to Relieve Pregnancy and Postpartum Hemorrhoids

1. Sitz Baths: Soaking in a warm sitz bath for 10–15 minutes can reduce swelling and relieve irritation. Add soothing herbs like calendula, yarrow, or marshmallow root for extra relief. Dr. Cole has a Soaking Salt for a Sitz Bath that can be found here 👉 https://coleherbals.com/pages/product-launch-pre-sell-page-hemo-salts

2. Witch Hazel Compresses: Witch hazel is a powerful astringent known for reducing inflammation and easing discomfort. Soak cotton pads or wipes and apply gently to the affected area.

3. Cold Compresses: Ice packs or cold gel compresses can help numb the pain and reduce swelling naturally. Use for 10-minute intervals, especially after bowel movements.

4. Hydration and High-Fiber Vegetables: Drink plenty of water and electrolytes and eat fiber-rich vegetables like spinach, kale, and carrots. These promote gentle digestion and help avoid the discomfort of constipation—without irritating the gut like grains often can.

Dr. Cole’s Herbal Remedy for Pregnancy Piles

For fast, natural relief that’s safe and effective, try Dr. Cole’s Hemorrhoid Balm. Created by a naturopathic doctor who had five daughters of her own, this balm is packed with time-honored, skin-soothing herbs that work where it hurts most.

A bouquet of Horse Chestnut, Calendula, Witch Hazel, Arnica, Butcher's Broom, Feverfew, Chickweed, Marshmallow Root, Mullein, Uva Ursi, Yarrow, and White Willow—the herbal ingredients in Dr. Cole's Hemorrhoid Formula.

Key Ingredients & Their Benefits:

• Witch Hazel – Cooling, astringent, and comforting.

• Horse Chestnut – Supports vein comfort and reduces swelling.

• Calendula – Gentle and skin-calming.

• Butcher’s Broom – Traditionally eases heaviness and supports circulation.

• Mullein & Yarrow – Anti-inflammatory herbs

• Marshmallow Root – Contains mucilage to soothe irritated tissues.

Full Ingredient List:100% Organic & Wildcrafted Ingredients: Olive Oil, Beeswax, Horse Chestnut, Calendula, Witch Hazel, Arnica, Butcher's Broom, Feverfew, Chickweed, Marshmallow Root, Mullein, Uva Ursi, Yarrow, White Willow & Vitamin E.

Directions for Use: Using a dime-sized amount, apply as needed to the targeted area after a bowel movement. You can apply 3–4 times a day or as recommended by your healthcare provider. For external use only.

If you’re preparing for postpartum recovery, add Dr. Cole’s Hemorrhoid Balm to your essentials list. Your future self will thank you.