When I have pain while having a bowel movement and see a little bit of blood, what can I do?

If you are experiencing pain and seeing blood when having a bowel movement, there could be several common reasons for this. It is important to consult a healthcare professional if the bleeding is heavy. Sometimes harder stools can cause pain and blood. Hemorrhoids can also be a cause of these symptoms. Softening the stools with a laxative and staying hydrated can help with the pain and make it easier to pass stools. If you notice itching or a small bump near your anus along with the other symptoms, it could be hemorrhoids. Softening the stools and using over-the-counter products like creams containing analgesics can help with the pain. It is recommended to establish good habits to make passing stools easier, such as going to the bathroom when you feel the urge, avoiding sitting on the toilet for too long, and not straining during bowel movements. If the bleeding worsens or the symptoms persist for more than a week, it is best to see a doctor.