Preventing hemorrhoids during pregnancy: a multicenter, randomized clinical trial.

Area of Science:

• Obstetrics and Gynecology
• Gastroenterology
• Preventive Medicine

Background:

• Hemorrhoids are a common complication during pregnancy.
• Effective prevention strategies are needed to improve maternal health outcomes.
• Dietary and behavioral factors play a role in hemorrhoid development.

Purpose of the Study:

• To compare the efficacy of specific dietary and behavioral recommendations for hemorrhoid prevention in pregnant women.
• To evaluate the impact of lifestyle modifications on the incidence of hemorrhoids post-delivery.

Main Methods:

• A randomized, single-blind, multicenter trial involving two groups (intervention and control).
• Intervention group received specific dietary and behavioral counseling.
• Primary outcome was the hemorrhoid rate at obstetric discharge; analyzed using Chi-Squared, Fisher exact, Student's t-test, and Mann-Whitney U tests.

Main Results:

• The intervention group showed a significantly lower hemorrhoid rate at discharge (RR 0.38; p < 0.001).
• Logistic regression identified the intervention as the sole protective factor.
• Previous hemorrhoid history and increased newborn height were associated with higher risk.

Conclusions:

• Dietary and behavioral modifications effectively reduce postpartum hemorrhoids.
• The intervention is safe and can be recommended for pregnant women.
• Lifestyle interventions are crucial for managing pregnancy-related hemorrhoids.