Suggest Treatment For Hemorrhoids During Pregnancy

Posted on Sat, 6 Dec 2014

Medically reviewed by Ask A Doctor - 24x7 Medical Review Team

Sat, 6 Dec 2014 Answered on

Tue, 30 Dec 2014 Last reviewed on

Question : I am 22 weeks pregnant. A hemorrhoid recently developed. I don't know if it's related or unrelated, but there is also a dark patch of skin near the anal opening. It is not raised, itchy, or painful. It is approximately the size of a silver dollar. I only noticed it because I was trying to apply a topical cream to treat the hemorrhoid nearby. Could the dark patch be melanoma, or is it likely related to the hemorrhoid?

Answered by Dr. Muhammed Aslam (1 hour later)

Brief Answer:
Unlikely melanoma.

Detailed Answer:
Hello dear, welcome to HCM forum.

This is not related to hemorrhoid, and is unlikely melanoma.
But, since the size is large it will be fine if we can get it examined by a dermatologist.

Most of such lesions are benign nevus. But, to be on the safer side we advise examination and biopsy if the lesion is asymmetrical, with irregular border, diameter > 6mm, or the morphology(color/shape/size/border) is changing with time, or associated with features like itching/pain/bleeding.

In our case, only size is concerning; anyhow, let us get it examined by a dermatologist. If he finds it okay, we can be confident and only need to keep an eye on the morphology(self examination every 1-2 months).

Also, pregnancy itself can cause physiological hyperpigmented lesions due to hormonal changes, which will resolve slowly after delivery.

Hope I have answered your query.
Wishing you good health.
Thank you.

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Shanthi.E