Abstract
Introduction Haemorrhoids and anal fissures (HAF) are common in pregnancy and can severely affect the quality of life of those suffering from them. Despite the condition being common, there is limited evidence, formal guidelines or recommendations on treatment, and little is known about the natural course during pregnancy. Methods This was a prospective, observational cohort study conducted at a tertiary-referral university maternity hospital (The National Maternity Hospital, Dublin), conducted over a nine-month period. The first part of the study was a case-control study of antenatal patients over 34 weeks' gestation. The second part of the study involved a cohort of postnatal patients. Anonymous patient surveys were performed and analysed. Results Two hundred and fifty-eight patients were recruited into the study from the outpatient clinics and wards of one maternity hospital from April to December 2021. Of the antenatal patients, 82/184 (45%) of these patients had symptoms of HAF and 102/184 (55%) antenatal patients were unaffected, acting as controls. In addition, 74 affected postnatal patients were also included. In the affected antenatal group, 36/82 (44%) of patients had self-reported HAF (symptoms or signs of HAF); 50/82 (61%) of patients diagnosed with HAF on their own. 12/82 (15%) noticed symptoms in the first trimester, 25/82 (30%) in the second and 45/82 (55%) in the third. 142/184 (77%) of antenatal patients used conservative methods to manage their symptoms, including an increase in dietary fibre. 144/184 (78%) used medical treatments including suppositories. Only one patient had surgery. 70/156 (45%) of postnatal patients' symptoms resolved within days, 42/156 (27%) in weeks and 44/156 (28%) within months. Conclusion HAF affect almost half of the pregnancies. Age over 35 was significantly associated with antenatal haemorrhoids or anal fissures. Concerningly, the majority of patients (64%) self-diagnose and manage the condition without either seeking or receiving guidance from medical professionals. In terms of the natural course of the disease, it was encouraging that 45% of patients' symptoms resolved within a few days. This will help when counselling patients with distressing symptoms. Conservative measures such as increased dietary fibre, increased fluid intake and bath salts were effective in relieving symptoms for the majority of patients.