Blood in Stool: Causes and Concerns After Childbirth

There is a bit of blood in the stool?

Hello, I apologize for bothering you, but I would like to ask a question.
This week, I experienced sudden abdominal pain in the morning on two occasions after getting up to use the restroom, similar to diarrhea.
The stools were loose, and there were small red mucous blood clots, with the red appearing pinkish.
I did not feel any abdominal pain while sleeping; it started after using the restroom, followed by diarrhea, but it only happened once in the morning.
For the past few days, I have felt a sense of bloating and discomfort in my abdomen, but it hasn't been particularly severe.
Recently, I gave birth a little over five months ago, and I have just stopped breastfeeding.
I have lost about 1 to 2 kilograms in weight.
Could this be colon cancer or polyps? Or could it be bleeding from my previous hemorrhoids? I have a history of internal and external hemorrhoids, and I have only had the external hemorrhoids banded once.
Thank you for your response.

Mi Mi, 30~39 year old female. Ask Date: 2016/04/06

Dr. Ke Fangxu reply Surgery

In this situation, the likelihood of hemorrhoidal bleeding is higher, while the chances of colorectal cancer or polyps are lower.
As long as there is no further bleeding, it should not be a concern.
It is recommended to avoid constipation during this period and to shorten the time spent on bowel movements.
Warm sitz baths may also help alleviate symptoms.
You can purchase over-the-counter hemorrhoidal suppositories for use, but it is best not to take stool softeners indiscriminately.
At this age, increasing the intake of dietary fiber and fluids should be sufficient.
If bleeding persists, it is advisable to consult a physician for further evaluation.

Reply Date: 2016/04/06

More Info

Experiencing blood in stool can be alarming, especially for someone who has recently given birth. It’s important to understand the potential causes and when to seek medical attention. Given your situation, let's explore the possible reasons for the blood in your stool, particularly in the context of your recent childbirth and history of hemorrhoids.

Firstly, the presence of red blood in the stool can indicate several conditions. The bright red color typically suggests that the bleeding is occurring in the lower gastrointestinal tract, which includes the rectum and anus. Common causes of blood in the stool include:
1. Hemorrhoids: Since you have a history of internal and external hemorrhoids, this is a likely culprit. Hemorrhoids can become aggravated during pregnancy and childbirth due to increased pressure in the pelvic area. Straining during bowel movements can lead to bleeding, especially if you have had a recent episode of diarrhea or constipation.

2. Anal Fissures: These are small tears in the lining of the anus that can occur due to passing hard stools or straining. They can cause sharp pain and bleeding during bowel movements.

3. Diverticular Disease: This condition involves the formation of small pouches in the colon wall, which can become inflamed or infected, leading to diverticulitis. This can cause abdominal pain and bleeding.

4. Infectious Colitis: Given that you experienced diarrhea, it’s possible that an infection could be causing inflammation in the colon, leading to blood in the stool. This could be due to bacterial, viral, or parasitic infections.

5. Polyps or Colorectal Cancer: While less common, especially in younger individuals, polyps can cause bleeding. If you have a family history of colorectal cancer or other risk factors, this should be considered.

6. Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD): Conditions like Crohn's disease or ulcerative colitis can cause inflammation in the gastrointestinal tract, leading to symptoms such as diarrhea, abdominal pain, and blood in the stool.

Given that you mentioned experiencing abdominal discomfort and changes in bowel habits, it is crucial to monitor your symptoms closely. If the blood persists, is accompanied by severe pain, changes in bowel habits, or any other concerning symptoms (such as fever, weight loss, or significant changes in appetite), you should seek medical attention promptly.

In terms of your recent childbirth, hormonal changes and physical stress can affect your gastrointestinal system. The cessation of breastfeeding may also lead to changes in your diet and digestion, which could contribute to gastrointestinal symptoms.

To address your concerns about colorectal cancer or polyps, it is important to note that while these conditions can occur, they are less likely in someone your age without significant risk factors. However, if you have a family history of colorectal cancer or if symptoms persist, a colonoscopy may be warranted for further evaluation.

In summary, while hemorrhoids and anal fissures are the most likely causes of your symptoms, it is essential to consult with a healthcare provider for a thorough evaluation. They may recommend diagnostic tests such as a physical examination, stool tests, or imaging studies to determine the cause of the bleeding and to rule out more serious conditions. Early intervention can lead to better outcomes, so don’t hesitate to reach out to a medical professional for guidance.

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