Hemorrhoids in the puerperium

This code describes the presence of hemorrhoids that develop or persist during the postpartum period, which is the six-week interval following childbirth. These are typically varicose veins in the rectum or anus, often exacerbated by the pressure and straining associated with labor and delivery.

Use this code when a patient presents with symptomatic hemorrhoids (e.g., pain, bleeding, itching) that are documented as occurring specifically during the puerperium. Documentation should clearly link the hemorrhoids to the postpartum state, even if they were pre-existing and worsened.

• Ensure documentation specifies the hemorrhoids are present in the puerperium to differentiate from hemorrhoids at other times.
• Do not confuse with hemorrhoids occurring during pregnancy (O22.4-) or those unrelated to pregnancy/puerperium (I84.-).
• Code any associated complications of the hemorrhoids (e.g., thrombosis, ulceration) as additional diagnoses.