Understanding the Banding Procedure for External Hemorrhoids

If you’re struggling with the discomfort and irritation of external hemorrhoids, you’re not alone. Hemorrhoids are a common condition that affects millions of people, and banding is a proven, minimally invasive treatment to relieve symptoms and improve your quality of life.

What Are External Hemorrhoids?

External hemorrhoids are swollen veins located under the skin around the anus. They can cause itching, pain, and discomfort, especially during bowel movements. Common factors that contribute to the development of hemorrhoids include:

• Chronic constipation or diarrhea
• Straining during bowel movements
• Pregnancy and childbirth
• Sitting for prolonged periods
• Obesity

While lifestyle changes such as a high-fiber diet and increased hydration can help, some cases require medical intervention to resolve persistent symptoms.

What Is Hemorrhoid Banding?

Hemorrhoid banding, also known as rubber band ligation, is a non-surgical treatment for external hemorrhoids. This procedure involves placing a small rubber band around the base of the hemorrhoid to cut off its blood supply. Without blood flow, the hemorrhoid shrinks and eventually falls off, usually within a week.

Why Choose Banding for External Hemorrhoids?

Hemorrhoid banding is a popular treatment option because it is:

1. Minimally Invasive: The procedure is quick, with minimal discomfort and no need for incisions or sutures.
2. Effective: Banding is highly effective for relieving symptoms and reducing the size of hemorrhoids.
3. Fast Recovery: Most patients return to their normal activities within a day or two.
4. Office-Based: The procedure can be performed right in our office at Complete Healthcare for Women, eliminating the need for hospital visits.

What to Expect During the Procedure

The banding procedure is straightforward and typically takes less than 10 minutes. Here’s what you can expect:

1. Preparation: You’ll be positioned comfortably and given a local anesthetic.  Then, your provider will use a specialized instrument to place the rubber band.
2. Band Placement: The band is securely placed around the base of the hemorrhoid. This step is usually painless because the hemorrhoidal tissue has few nerve endings.
3. Post-Procedure Care: You may experience mild discomfort or a sensation of fullness for a day or two, which can be managed with over-the-counter pain relief and sitz baths.

The hemorrhoid will shrink and fall off on its own, and you’ll pass it during a bowel movement, often without even noticing.

When to Seek Treatment

If you’re experiencing ongoing pain, itching, or bleeding due to hemorrhoids, it’s time to seek professional care. At Complete Healthcare for Women, we specialize in providing personalized treatment plans to address your specific needs.

Relief Is Within Reach

Don’t let hemorrhoids disrupt your life. The team at Complete Healthcare for Women in Richland, WA, is here to help you find relief with expert care and advanced treatments like hemorrhoid banding.

Contact us today to schedule your consultation by calling 509-392-6700 or visiting our Complete Healthcare for Women website.

Author

Richard Lorenzo, DO Dr. Lorenzo is a Fellow of the American Congress of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG) and the American College of Osteopathic Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOOG), reflecting his expertise in women’s health. He provides comprehensive gynecological and obstetric services, including prenatal care up to 20 weeks, infertility evaluations, and general gynecology. Dr. Lorenzo specializes in advanced surgical techniques, offering minimally invasive procedures for abnormal uterine bleeding, endometriosis, and hysterectomy, ensuring quicker recovery and minimal discomfort for his patients. He is highly trained in high-risk obstetrics and adept at performing minimally invasive hysterectomies, providing women with effective solutions tailored to their needs. At Complete Healthcare for Women in Richland, WA, Dr. Lorenzo prioritizes personalized, compassionate care, empowering women to make informed health decisions.