A beginner-friendly guide to hemorrhoids for women (because yes—this happens to a lot of us). This blog was written in partnership with Bummed.
Let’s talk about something that almost everyone experiences but hardly anyone talks about: hemorrhoids.
If you’ve ever felt itching, burning, swelling, or pain around your butt after a tough bowel movement (or after sitting for way too long), hemorrhoids might be the reason. The truth? They’re extremely common — affecting up to 75% of people at some point in their lives, according to medical experts.
Yet for something so common, hemorrhoids remain a taboo topic for many people, especially younger women who may not expect to deal with them.
That’s why we partnered with Bummed - the digital health platform dedicated to the treatment and prevention of hemorrhoids, fissures, and other anorectal issues. Bummed was founded by two women very familiar with these issues, who thought there needed to be a better way to get effective care. Bummed’s Chief Medical Officer, colorectal surgeon Dr. Carmen Fong, helps us break it down: what hemorrhoids are, why they happen, why women experience them frequently, and what hemorrhoid cream can help treat them.
What Are Hemorrhoids?
Hemorrhoids are swollen veins in the rectum or anus, similar to varicose veins but located in a much more sensitive area.
Hemorrhoids develop when increased pressure in the lower rectum causes veins to swell and stretch. This pressure can happen during bowel movements, pregnancy, prolonged sitting, or chronic constipation.
There are two main types:
Internal Hemorrhoids
Internal hemorrhoids develop inside the rectum. They usually don’t hurt but can cause symptoms like:
- Bright red blood during bowel movements
- Mucus discharge
- A feeling of incomplete emptying
Sometimes they can prolapse (meaning they push outside the anus).
External Hemorrhoids
External hemorrhoids develop under the skin around the anus and tend to cause the most noticeable symptoms:
- Pain
- Itching
- Swelling
- Burning
- Tender lumps near the anus
These are the hemorrhoids most people notice. As colorectal surgeon Dr. Carmen Fong explains, hemorrhoids are actually normal structures in the body that help with continence, but when they swell and become inflamed, they cause symptoms that can be painful and frustrating.
Why Do Hemorrhoids Happen?
The short answer: pressure. Anything that increases pressure in the rectal veins can cause hemorrhoids to develop.
Common triggers include:
- Straining during bowel movements
- Chronic constipation
- Sitting on the toilet for long periods
- Pregnancy
- Low fiber intake
- Dehydration
- Heavy lifting
Dr. Carmen Fong notes that many hemorrhoid flare-ups start with bowel habits. In her book, “Constipation Nation,” she notes that when stool becomes hard or difficult to pass, the body has to push harder—creating the pressure that leads to swollen veins.
Why do women experience hemorrhoids so often?
Hemorrhoids can affect anyone, but women experience them frequently, especially during certain life stages.
Pregnancy
Up to 85% of pregnant women develop hemorrhoids. Several factors contribute:
- Increased pressure from the growing uterus
- Hormonal changes that slow digestion
- Increased blood volume
- Pregnancy-related constipation
As pregnancy progresses, the pelvic veins carry more pressure, which can cause hemorrhoids to swell.
Postpartum Recovery
Childbirth itself can also trigger hemorrhoids due to the intense pressure and pushing during delivery. Many women experience hemorrhoids or anal fissures during the postpartum period.
Hormonal Changes and Constipation
Hormones can slow digestive movement, making constipation more common in women. Diet changes, travel, stress, and medications can also contribute.
According to Dr. Fong, constipation is one of the most overlooked causes of hemorrhoids, particularly in younger women who might not realize that infrequent or difficult bowel movements are putting strain on the rectal veins.
Common Hemorrhoid Symptoms
Hemorrhoids can look different for everyone, but the most common symptoms include:
- Itching around the anus
- Burning or irritation
- Pain during bowel movements
- Swelling or lumps near the anus
- Bright red bleeding when wiping
- Discomfort when sitting
Many people feel embarrassed about these symptoms, but they’re incredibly common.
The good news: most hemorrhoids can be treated with conservative care and the right hemorrhoid cream.
Hemorrhoid Cream Treatment Options
At Bummed, hemorrhoid treatments are designed with medical expertise and real patient experiences in mind. The goal: provide science-backed solutions that actually address symptoms while helping the area heal.
Two prescription hemorrhoid cream options are available depending on your symptoms:
Rapid Relief Hemorrhoid Cream
The Rapid Relief Hemorrhoid & Fissure Rx Cream is designed for fast-acting symptom relief.
It helps address:
- Pain
- Burning
- Swelling
- Itching
This option is ideal during a hemorrhoid flare-up, when symptoms suddenly appear and you need quick relief.
Long-Acting Hemorrhoid Cream
The Long-Acting Hemorrhoid & Fissure Rx Cream focuses on longer-lasting treatment and healing.
It helps:
- Reduce inflammation over time
- Support tissue recovery
- Prevent recurring irritation
Many patients use longer-acting hemorrhoid creams when symptoms persist or when hemorrhoids develop alongside other issues like anal fissures.
Both options are prescription treatments overseen by medical professionals, ensuring they’re appropriate for your specific symptoms.
Prescription products require an online consultation with a physician who will determine if a prescription is appropriate.
Lifestyle Changes That Help Prevent Hemorrhoids
Hemorrhoid cream can relieve symptoms, but preventing flare-ups often involves improving bowel habits.
Eat More Fiber
Fiber helps soften stool and reduce straining.
Good sources include:
- Vegetables
- Fruits
- Whole grains
- Beans and legumes
Drink More Water
Hydration keeps digestion moving and prevents hard stools.
Don’t Strain
If a bowel movement isn’t happening easily, avoid pushing too hard.
Don’t Sit on the Toilet Too Long
Scrolling TikTok on the toilet might feel relaxing, but sitting too long increases pressure in the rectal veins.
Move Your Body
Regular movement improves digestion and circulation. These simple habits can dramatically reduce the risk of hemorrhoid flare-ups.
When to See a Doctor
Most hemorrhoids improve with conservative treatment and hemorrhoid cream, but medical care may be necessary if:
- Bleeding is persistent
- Pain is severe
- Hemorrhoids don’t improve after a week
- A lump becomes extremely painful
A specialist can help determine whether symptoms are caused by hemorrhoids or another condition.
Hemorrhoids are common, normal, and nothing to be ashamed of — even if no one brings them up at brunch. They happen because of pressure in the rectal veins, and women often experience them due to constipation, pregnancy, and hormonal changes. The good news is that they’re very treatable. With the right care, including lifestyle changes and targeted hemorrhoid cream treatments like those from Bummed, most people can get relief quickly and safely.
As Dr. Carmen Fong often reminds patients: hemorrhoids may feel uncomfortable and embarrassing, but they’re also one of the most treatable conditions in colorectal health. Your butt deserves better, and relief is absolutely possible.
