tushlab Provided to you by:

The 7-day hemorrhoid relief routine

A calm, practical week of gentle care. The rhythm is the same every day; consistency matters more than intensity. General information, not medical advice.

Morning

Warm sitz bath, 10 to 15 minutes. A few inches of comfortably warm (not hot) water, in a tub or a basin that sits over the toilet. Warm water boosts circulation and relaxes the muscle, which eases the ache.
Pat dry gently with a soft towel, or air-dry. No rubbing.
Hydrate early. Water now means softer, easier bowel movements later.

After each bathroom visit

Witch hazel instead of dry paper. Cleanse with an alcohol-free witch hazel pad or cloth. Dry paper adds friction; witch hazel is a gentle drug-free astringent that soothes itch and minor swelling. Chilled pads feel even better.
Don't linger or strain. If nothing is happening, get up and come back later. A small footstool that raises the knees helps.

Through the day

Fiber and fluids for softer stools and less straining.
Move every hour. Long sitting adds pressure; a cushion helps.
Cool compress for a few minutes to calm a flare.

Evening

A second sitz bath on the harder days. Ten minutes is plenty.
Set up for tomorrow: footstool by the toilet, water by the bed.

What to expect: mild flare-ups often settle within a few days to about two weeks of consistent care. Medicated OTC creams can ease symptoms quickly and work best alongside these basics; follow the label. Pregnant or breastfeeding: the drug-free steps above are widely used and supportive (keep bath water warm, not hot), and any medicated product is a conversation with your OB, midwife, or doctor first.

Stop self-care and contact a healthcare professional if you notice: more than trace bleeding or bleeding that doesn't stop · severe or worsening pain, or a hard, purple, very painful lump · no improvement after about a week · any change in bowel habits or blood mixed in stool · you're pregnant or postpartum and unsure what's safe · anything that simply worries you. Rectal bleeding should always be checked, especially a first episode.

This handout is general information and does not replace professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Guidance reflects widely published self-care measures (sources include NIDDK and the FDA OTC anorectal monograph, 21 CFR 346). The full routine, with references, lives at tushlab.com/relief. Tushlab makes hemorrhoid care designed for women. © 2026 Tushlab.