It’s easy to take a bodily function for granted, until it stops functioning properly. Proper bowel movement is something that we completely disregard until it becomes difficult for us to do so. Once our stool becomes hard, we are then forced to strain or to push too hard in order for it to come out.
Unfortunately, excessive straining in the toilet is a big no-no, as this is one of the leading causes of hemorrhoids. When you strain, the veins near the anus are placed under a lot of pressure. This leads to swelling and inflammation, which also leads to hemorrhoids.
Here’s what you can do to prevent straining in the toilet:
Make yourself as comfortable as possible.
Avoid overthinking. Thinking you won’t be able to poop will only stress you further, and will stress your body as well. Use relaxation techniques or listen to calming music while in the bathroom.
Avoid rushing to complete the bowel movement as this leads to straining. Your body knows what it needs to do. So take a deep breathe, relax, and allow nature to take its course.
Change things up.
Learn to work with your body to determine the best way to effortlessly let out your stool. Many experts recommend that you use a “semi-squat” position. Leaning forward and pressing the torso against the thighs until you can press your hands on the floor will help.
When the body is in this squatting position, the puborectalis muscle that supports the rectum becomes relaxed, making it easier for you to poop. Once you are in this position, inhale deeply and then exhale as you begin to put pressure on your pelvic muscles.
If you don’t want to do this, another alternative position you can try is putting your knees above your hips, which allows your pelvic floor to relax. Do this by propping your feet up using a footstool while seated on the throne.
Less straining on the toilet will prevent the occurrence of hemorrhoids. However, if hemorrhoids still continue to happen and are causing you great discomfort, please have a medical appointment with a Los Angeles anal doctor. You can also visit us at the Proctology Institute to have the hemorrhoids removed.
