Symptoms of Piles in Females

Research says that approximately 50% of adults over the age of 50 may experience symptoms related to piles at some point in their lives. However, females may be more susceptible to developing piles due to various factors such as pregnancy, hormonal changes, and lifestyle.
So, if you are a female, and wondering whether you have piles or not, these are the symptoms to look out for.

Symptoms of Piles in Females

Itching sensation and irritation in and around the anus:

One of the most common symptoms of piles in females is anal itching and irritation. This is because of the swollen blood vessels around the anus. The itching sensation might get worse sometimes after passing stool or if you are sitting for a longer period. This feeling is bothersome, but sometimes it gets you into embarrassing or distressed situations.

Unusual pain and discomfort

Pain and discomfort are common symptoms that tamper in piles. The pain varies from person to person depending on the severity of the condition. Pain during bowel movements is common, but some experience pain even while sitting or walking. This pain impacts the quality of life and makes it difficult to carry out daily activities.

Bleeding During Bowel Movements

Bleeding during bowel movements is a significant symptom of piles in females. This happens due to the rupturing of blood vessels in the swollen area. Some females might even notice bright red blood on the stool or toilet paper. The bleeding may not be significant but needs medical attention immediately.

Prolapse or Lumps

In some cases, females may experience prolapse or the protrusion of piles outside the anus. This can result in the formation of visible lumps or swollen tissue around the anal opening. Piles may appear as small, grape-like structures or larger lumps. The prolapse can cause discomfort and may require manual reduction in severe cases.

Mucus Discharge and Leakage

Females with piles may also experience mucus discharge and leakage. The presence of excessive mucus can cause discomfort and irritation in the anal area. It may also lead to the moistening of undergarments, which can be embarrassing and inconvenient. Managing this symptom may involve proper hygiene practices and the use of absorbent pads or liners.

Changes in Bowel Habits

Another symptom associated with piles in females is changes in bowel habits. This can include difficulties in passing stool, such as straining or feeling incomplete evacuation. Females may also experience constipation or diarrhoea, which can exacerbate the symptoms of piles. Maintaining a healthy diet with an adequate intake of fibre and fluids can help regulate bowel movements.

What is the Treatment for Piles in Females?

Some lifestyle modifications like increasing fibre intake, staying hydrated and regular exercise can have a great impact on piles in females. However, there are some treatment methods to get rid of the discomfort caused by piles

Sitz Baths - Taking warm sitz baths can provide relief for piles. A sitz bath involves soaking the rectal area in warm water for 10 to 15 minutes, two to three times a day. This helps reduce swelling and promote healing.
Medications- In some cases, your doctor may prescribe medications to alleviate the symptoms of piles. These may include pain relievers, stool softeners, or prescription-strength creams or ointments. It's important to consult with a healthcare professional before starting any medication.

When conservative measures don’t work, there are some minimally invasive procedures that work well on piles in females

Rubber band ligation - This procedure involves placing small rubber bands around the base of the haemorrhoids, cutting off their blood supply and causing them to shrink.
Injection therapy - A solution is injected into the haemorrhoid, causing it to shrink and eventually disappear.
Coagulation therapy - Heat, laser, or infrared light is used to shrink the haemorrhoids.
Hemorrhoidectomy: In severe cases, surgical removal of the haemorrhoids may be necessary.

How to Prevent Piles in Females?

When experiencing symptoms of piles, females can take certain steps to manage the condition effectively. Here are some strategies that can provide relief:

Maintain good hygiene - Keeping the anal area clean and dry is crucial to prevent further irritation. After bowel movements, it is recommended to use gentle, fragrance-free wipes or plain water to clean the area.
Don't strain - Straining during bowel movements can worsen the symptoms of piles. Females should avoid excessive straining and take their time when passing stool. Applying gentle pressure with clean, moistened toilet paper can help ease the process.
Avoid prolonged sitting - Sitting for prolonged periods can put pressure on the anal area and exacerbate symptoms. Females should take regular breaks from sitting and incorporate physical activity into their daily routine.
Apply topical treatments - Over-the-counter creams or ointments containing ingredients like witch hazel or hydrocortisone can provide temporary relief from pain, itching, and inflammation. However, it is essential to consult a healthcare professional before using any medication.
Increase fibre and fluid intake - Consuming a diet rich in fibre can help soften the stool and ease bowel movements. Females should aim to include fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and legumes in their meals. Drinking an adequate amount of water is also vital to maintain hydration and prevent constipation.