Rubber band ligation is a procedure where the hemorrhoid is tied off at its base with rubber bands, cutting off the blood flow to the hemorrhoid. This treatment is limited to 1 to 2 hemorrhoids at a time if done in the doctor’s office. Additional areas may be treated at 2 to 3 week intervals.

The doctor inserts a viewing instrument into the anus. The hemorrhoid is grasped with an instrument, and a rubber band is placed around the base. The hemorrhoid shrinks and recedes, falling off in about a week. A scar will form in place of the hemorrhoid, holding nearby veins so that they don’t bulge into the anal canal. After the procedure, you may feel pain and a feeling of fullness in your lower abdomen, or you may feel as if you need to have bowel movement.