Unless you’re a hemorrhoid specialist, nobody likes to talk about hemorrhoids. Much less talk about hemorrhoids in the context of sex. However, it’s a common and uncomfortable problem many people can suffer from that’s important to address. For some, the pain and discomfort associated with hemorrhoids can even affect their sex life. To help those struggling with this issue, learn everything you need to know about hemorrhoids and sex to navigate what you can do.

What Causes Hemorrhoids

All hemorrhoids ultimately revolve around veins in the rectum and anus, causing pain, itching, and bleeding. When it comes to hemorrhoids, their causes can come from various sources. Commonly, it’s from straining during bowel movements or sitting for long periods. Other causes can

include pregnancy, obesity, and chronic constipation or diarrhea.

Types of Hemorrhoids & Sex

The last condition to get you in the mood is hemorrhoids. Depending on the type and severity of your hemorrhoids, sex would certainly be painful and uncomfortable. However, technically, it is still possible to have sex with hemorrhoids.

Understanding the type of hemorrhoids you have allows you to navigate sex if your partner is aware of your condition. Notably, the two common types of hemorrhoids are the following:

  • Internal hemorrhoids: These hemorrhoids lie in the inside of your rectum. Typically, you can’t see or feel them. Rarely do they cause discomfort, but straining or irritation when passing stool can cause symptom flare-ups like pain or a bit of blood.
  • External hemorrhoids: These hemorrhoids are under the skin around your anus. Such hemorrhoids are notorious for causing pain, swelling, inflammation, & even bleeding.

If you have external hemorrhoids, you might want to consider just waiting until your hemorrhoids go away and heal. Any sexual activity with external hemorrhoids can just exacerbate your condition further. Meanwhile, with internal hemorrhoids, you can engage in some sexual activity but with caution.

Navigating Sex With Hemorrhoids

As established, it is possible to have sex if you have internal hemorrhoids because it rarely causes discomfort. However, it doesn’t mean you shouldn’t be careful. You need to be mindful of what sexual activity is fine to engage in or what’s completely off-limits.

If you participate in penetrative sex, you need to keep in mind the type that you engage in matters. You certainly can’t have anal intercourse when you have hemorrhoids. Whether internal or external, any hemorrhoid specialist can tell you that the act can worsen your hemorrhoids. Meanwhile, it is possible to have vaginal sex with internal hemorrhoids. However, it can inflame them if the penetration is too deep.

Oral sex is possible for this with internal hemorrhoids. Again, it means taking it easy with your body and not straining. For example, if you push down on your pelvic floor too much or your anus too hard during oral sex, it can cause strain to hemorrhoids.

It is also important to take the necessary precautions to reduce irritation and discomfort. That includes using a water-based lubricant and avoiding positions that put extra pressure on the rectal area. When the veins around the rectum become swollen and inflamed, they can cause discomfort during sex. The swollen veins can make it difficult to lubricate the area, resulting in pain and discomfort properly.

Ultimately, the best course of action would be to abstain until healed, especially because any pain is a sign that it’s inflamed and might lead to a longer healing time.

Tips for Enjoying Sex with Hemorrhoids

If you still want to engage in sexual intercourse with hemorrhoids, there are still ways to enjoy it with a willing partner to minimize any discomfort further. Here are some tips to help make it easier:

  • Take your time: Rushing through sex can cause more irritation and discomfort. Take your time and focus on pleasure.
  • Use lube: A water-based lubricant can reduce friction and make the experience more enjoyable.
  • Choose the right positions: Avoid positions that put extra pressure on the rectal area. Instead, try positions that do not require deep penetration, such as spooning or missionary.

Treatments for Hemorrhoids

Fortunately, there are a variety of treatments available to help manage hemorrhoids. For mild cases, over-the-counter creams, ointments, and suppositories can help reduce inflammation and relieve pain. For more severe cases, a doctor may recommend prescription medications or even surgery in some cases.

Regardless of your treatment option, staying hydrated and maintaining a healthy diet are important. Eating fibre and drinking plenty of water can help keep stools soft and reduce straining during bowel movements. It is also important to practice good hygiene. Gently cleaning the area after each bowel movement can help reduce irritation and itching. Be sure to use soft, unscented wipes and avoid scrubbing.

To reduce irritation, wear loose-fitting clothing and avoid sitting for long periods. Taking warm baths or soaking in a bidet can also help provide relief.

 

Hemorrhoids can be painful and embarrassing, but treatments are available to help manage them. It is still possible to enjoy sex with hemorrhoids, but taking the necessary precautions to reduce irritation and discomfort is important. If your symptoms are severe or ongoing, consider seeing a hemorrhoid specialist for more specialized care.

No matter your situation, it is important to remember that you are not alone. With the right treatment and lifestyle changes, you can manage your hemorrhoids and enjoy a healthy, active sex life.