Giving birth is the most beautiful and incredible moment in a mother’s life, but it is also one of the most physically painful experiences to go through.

After delivery, the new mother will experience several types of pain, some of which are normal, while others may be a cause for concern.

Postpartum Pain After Delivery

Postpartum pain is the discomfort that a woman faces after giving birth. The pain may start right after delivery or some days later. Recovery time will depend on several factors, including whether a woman has a vaginal or C-section delivery.

Vaginal Pain and Discomfort

Vaginal soreness is a common complaint after delivering a baby and occurs due to the stretching of the vaginal muscles during delivery.

Vaginal soreness may also occur due to the pressure of the baby’s head on the vagina during the pushing stage of labor. Women may also experience perineal pain, which is the area between the anus and the vagina. This area becomes sore after delivery because it stretches during the delivery process.

The pain is usually mild to moderate and can be managed with over-the-counter pain medications.

Abdominal Pain

After childbirth, most women experience cramps caused by the uterus contracting after delivery. These contractions are known as after-pains and are more common in women who have had multiple pregnancies.

These cramps may be more intense during breastfeeding because it triggers the release of oxytocin hormone that further helps the uterus contract back to its pre-pregnancy size.

Breast Pain and Discomfort

During the first few days after delivery, women experience breast pain and discomfort as their breast start producing milk, and this can make them feel full, lumpy, and hard.

This condition is called engorgement, and it’s your body’s way of increasing milk supply. Engorgement can cause pain, swelling, warmth, and tenderness on the breast. Breastfeeding or pumping frequently can help alleviate the pain caused by engorgement.

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Back Pain

A woman’s back often takes the brunt of the labor. The pressure of the baby’s head during delivery can cause tension or even spasms in the lower back muscles.

Back pain can also be caused by poor posture during breastfeeding, which many new moms spend hours doing. Gentle exercises and stretches can help alleviate the discomfort and tension.

Headaches and Migraines

Headaches and migraines are common after delivery due to hormonal changes. Lack of sleep, stress, dehydration, and poor nutrition can also trigger headaches. Taking pain relievers like acetaminophen can be safe to ease the pain.

However, some medications can affect the breastfeeding process, so it’s best to consult with a healthcare provider before taking any medication.

Perineal Pain and Discomfort

Perineal pain is common after a vaginal delivery, and it usually lasts for 2-3 weeks. Over-the-counter medications can provide relief from this type of pain. Ice packs and warm baths can also help alleviate the discomfort and swelling.

C-Section Incision Pain

C-section incision pain may be felt after the surgery. Women may feel pain in the incision area, and it may be challenging to stand, walk or lift heavy objects. Pain medications and gradually increasing mobility can help alleviate the pain.

Constipation and Hemorrhoids

Constipation and hemorrhoids are common after delivery due to the slowing down of bowel movements. Straining during bowel movements increases the chances of developing hemorrhoids, which are swollen and inflamed veins in the rectal area.

Keeping a high fiber diet, drinking lots of water, and taking stool softeners can help alleviate the discomfort caused by constipation and hemorrhoids.

Conclusion

After childbirth, a woman’s body goes through several changes, and it takes some time to recover properly. Some of these changes cause pain or discomfort, which can be frustrating, but they’re all part of the process.

It’s best to talk to a healthcare provider if the pain is too severe or if the pain level increases instead of subsiding over time. The new mother can take over-the-counter medications, avoid straining, get plenty of rest and hydration, and eventually enjoy motherhood with her bundle of joy.