How to Use Preparation H on the Stomach

Published: Oct 14, 2010
Updated: Dec 13, 2021
1 minute read

Preparation H is a brand of various creams, ointments and other treatments for hemorrhoids. The McKinley Health Center at the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign describes hemorrhoids as inflamed and swollen veins in the lower rectum and/or anus. Though Preparation H products are intended to treat inflammation in that area, some use the products for different reasons. A common usage, according to Newsweek, is for weight loss in the abdominal region. Consult your physician before applying this product in any off-label usage.

Clean your stomach with body wash and warm water. Gently pat dry with a clean towel.

Wait for the skin on your stomach to dry completely.

Apply approximately 1 tbsp. Preparation H ointment directly to the skin. It's best to put the ointment to the middle of your stomach for even application across the entire abdominal region.

Massage the Preparation H ointment into your stomach until it's absorbed. According to an ABC News article, the ingredients in Preparation H -- namely phenylephrine HCL -- constrict the blood vessels. This, in turn, shrinks the tissue and tightens muscles wherever the Preparation H ointment is applied.

Re-apply the product as needed. According to a Newsweek article, the product's effects lasts for two the three hours.

Wendy Rose Gould

Wendy Rose Gould is a professional journalist who has contributed to "Glamour" magazine and the Huffington Post, among other publications. After internships at the "Indianapolis Business Journal," "Kiwanis International" and "NUVO…

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