Case Study on patient with hemorrhoids and pregnancy symptoms
Acupuncture is a gentle and effective therapy for managing a variety of pregnancy-related conditions, including digestive discomfort, fatigue, and even hemorrhoids. In this case study, we explore the journey of a 36-year-old woman who sought acupuncture treatment during her 11th week of pregnancy. Her main concern was lingering hemorrhoids, which she feared would worsen as her pregnancy progressed.
BACKGROUND AND HEALTH HISTORY
The patient reported a history of hemorrhoids beginning in 2017, with the last significant flare-up occurring in late 2018, during the holiday season. Although the more intense pain had subsided since then, she continued to experience sensitivity in the anal area and occasional bleeding during defecation—especially when constipated.
In addition to the hemorrhoids, she described her bowels as dry, and noted that she tends toward constipation, a condition that often aggravates hemorrhoid symptoms. She also experienced bloating, slight acid reflux, and nausea—typical discomforts in early pregnancy. Fatigue and water retention were also part of her ongoing symptoms.
Her goals were clear: manage her hemorrhoid discomfort, improve digestion and elimination, and support her overall well-being during pregnancy using natural and safe approaches.
INITIAL CONSULTATION AND TREATMENT APPROACH
Here is a summary of the patient’s progress over several follow-up visits:
August 28, 2019: After just one treatment, the patient reported 4–5 days of reduced discomfort and no bleeding. She rated her hemorrhoid discomfort at 3.5 out of 10, a significant improvement.
September 9, 2019: The patient experienced some acid reflux, but overall hemorrhoid discomfort had dropped to 3/10.
September 16, 2019: She reported continued improvement in her hemorrhoid symptoms, with less discomfort overall.
September 25, 2019: After an episode of constipation, the patient experienced minor bleeding and rated her discomfort at 4/10. However, both acid reflux and nausea were well managed.
September 30, 2019: Another bout of constipation caused slight bleeding, but the episode resolved quickly, and she felt much better the next day. Acid reflux and nausea continued to be under control.
October 4, 2019: A milestone moment—no bleeding and no pain for one full day, along with improved bowel movements.
October 7, 2019: The patient celebrated three consecutive days without bleeding or pain—a strong indicator that the acupuncture treatments were supporting both circulatory health and digestive function.
ON-GOING CARE AND NEXT STEPS
The patient plans to continue weekly acupuncture treatments throughout her second trimester. By maintaining regular care, we aim to:
Prevent further hemorrhoid flare-ups
Improve digestion and ease constipation
Manage any new pregnancy-related symptoms as they arise
Support her energy, circulation, and emotional well-being during pregnancy
This integrative approach focuses not only on symptom relief but also on supporting the whole body through the dynamic changes of pregnancy.
WHY ACUPUNCTURE WORKS FOR PREGNANCY AND HEMMORRHOIDS
From a Traditional Chinese Medicine perspective, hemorrhoids are often linked to Qi stagnation and blood stasis, often exacerbated by digestive weakness or heat accumulation in the lower body. Pregnancy can worsen these patterns due to increased blood volume, hormonal changes, and pressure on pelvic veins.
Acupuncture works by stimulating the body’s own healing mechanisms. In this case, it helped improve blood circulation, reduce inflammation, and regulate bowel movements—all while being safe and supportive for both mother and baby. Click here to read more about the correlation between hemorrhoids and pregnancy.
FINAL THOUGHTS
This case shows that acupuncture can be an effective, gentle way to manage hemorrhoids and pregnancy-related symptoms without invasive treatments or medications. If you’re pregnant and experiencing similar concerns—whether it’s constipation, bloating, hemorrhoids, or fatigue—acupuncture may offer you much-needed relief.
Interested in learning more about how acupuncture can support your pregnancy? Contact us today to schedule a consultation. We’re here to help you feel your best, naturally.
MORE INFORMATION ON BALANCE METHOD
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Written by Zen Tuan, Licensed Balance Method Acupuncturist at Healing with Zen in Pasadena, CA.