This is another one of those “uncomfortable” topics that relate not only to pregnant women but also to those with constipation problems. The information on this post is for educational purposes, but as it is quite descriptive, some readers may find the content offensive. Read at your own risk - you have been warned.

In an earlier post, I mentioned having some problems with constipation. Ironically, they cleared up with the onset of the durian season. Surprise, surprise, those thorny fruits are packed full of fiber, among other nutrients (read all about it - here).

The unfortunate side effect of that episode of constipation was that I was left with an anal fissure. An anal fissure is simply a tear in the anus resulting from over stretching the skin beyond its normal capabilities. A common cause is due to constipation or straining to defecate when your stools are hard and dry (for more info, read Wikipedia - anal fissure).

An anal fissure isn’t a real problem since it heals fairly easily. There is some minor discomfort and possibly a bit of bleeding (noticeable when wiping) when passing motion because the cut is stretched open. What you can do to promote healing is to increase your fiber intake to further soften your stools (the softer the better since it’ll pass more easily), and to wash rather than wipe with toilet paper (since toilet paper can be quite abrasive).

Anal fissures may be confused for haemorrhoids (also known as piles) because haemorrhoids are also caused by constipation and excessive forces applied during defecation, among other things. What’s the difference? I suppose haemorrhoids can be likened to having a hernia in your anal canal. Well, you can read more about it on Wikipedia - haemorrhoids.

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