You’ve made it through the incredible challenge of childbirth, but your recovery is far from over. For many new moms, postpartum pain, discomfort, and exhaustion linger longer than expected. Research shows that 69% of women experience pain that impacts their daily lives after birth, with over a third describing it as moderate to severe.
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You’re not alone. Postpartum pain is completely normal, especially after a twin pregnancy or complicated birth, but that doesn’t mean you have to suffer through it. This article will provide you with safe and effective ways to relieve postpartum pain so you can enjoy your journey to motherhood to the fullest.
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Common Types of Postpartum Pain
Postpartum recovery is a challenging journey that requires patience. Typically, postpartum pain can last from a few days to a few weeks, depending on each person’s physical condition and the method of birth. After giving birth, you may have to face pain such as:
Vaginal soreness
You may experience swelling, vaginal tears, or a cut in the vaginal opening (called an episiotomy) during childbirth. If the tear is large, your doctor may stitch it up after you give birth. The vaginal wound will cause pain when you walk, go to the bathroom, or sit for a few days. Vaginal pain usually lasts from a few days to about 2-3 weeks after giving birth.
Vaginal discharge
After giving birth, the mother will also experience a mixture of blood, mucus, and uterine tissue, often called lochia, being expelled from the body. Lochia is usually more abundant in the first days after giving birth, then gradually decreases and stops completely after about 4-6 weeks. Vaginal discharge after giving birth is completely normal, but if you have pain, fever, or foul-smelling lochia, you should contact your doctor.
Uterine cramping
During the first few days of postpartum recovery, you will often experience uterine contractions as your uterus contracts back to its original position. The pain from uterine contractions is similar to menstrual cramps. These pains may be worse when you breastfeed because your body produces the hormone oxytocin at that time, or in women who are giving birth to twins or for the second time. Uterine contractions usually last about 3-7 days after giving birth.
Cesarean incision pain
For mothers who have had a C-section, the area around the incision will often be painful, slightly swollen, and tense for a few weeks. The pain at the incision will be most noticeable in the first 2 weeks, and will be dull until about 6 weeks later. You need to pay attention to keeping the incision clean and contact your doctor if you see the incision red, swollen, oozing, or more painful.
In addition, mothers who have had a C-section need to prepare themselves mentally to face the C-section pouch (also known as the C-section shelf). This condition occurs when the sagging abdominal skin hangs over the incision, causing the abdomen to protrude. Although the C-section pouch does not cause pain, it can be unsightly, so you should take proper care of it.
Back pain
During the postpartum recovery, mothers may also have to deal with persistent back pain. Back pain after childbirth can be caused by many things, such as weak abdominal muscles, the body still having the joint-softening hormone relaxin, or due to incorrect posture when holding the baby.
In addition, mothers may also have pain in the lower back after C-section when the effects of anesthesia wear off. Sore back after C-section may be more severe than in mothers who give birth naturally.
Hemorrhoids
If you notice swelling near your anus or pain when you have a bowel movement, you may have postpartum hemorrhoids. Straining during childbirth can cause or aggravate hemorrhoids. Some mothers are afraid to have a bowel movement because they fear pain or don’t want to aggravate the perineal wound.
Sore breasts
You will also experience pain and tenderness in both breasts after giving birth. This is because your breasts are filled with too much milk, blood, and other fluids. Breast pain can sometimes be a sign of clogged milk ducts or mastitis.
Tips and Remedies for Different Types of Pain
Now that you’re familiar with the common types of postpartum pain, let’s explore some simple tips to help ease the discomfort. These remedies will support you in managing pain effectively and making your postpartum recovery a little smoother.
- Vaginal soreness: To reduce vaginal pain and discomfort after giving birth, you can use a cold compresses. You can also combine pain-relieving sprays or soak in a bath to soothe perineal pain.
- Uterine cramping: If the uterine contractions are causing severe pain, you can contact your doctor to get a prescription for safe painkillers. Usually, your doctor will suggest over-the-counter painkillers such as Paracetamol, Ibuprofen, or Diclofenac.
- Cesarean incision pain: For cesarean section wounds, you should use post-cesarean recovery patches to protect the wound, prevent infection, and effectively reduce pain. You can apply a cold compress when the wound gradually heals and becomes itchy. In addition, limit excessive movement to avoid affecting the wound. You should move slowly and can hug a small pillow when coughing or sneezing.
- Back pain: To deal with the uncomfortable postpartum back pain, you need to pay attention to your posture when standing and when breastfeeding. Gentle exercise also helps reduce back pain. You can combine the use of a postpartum belt to support your back and adjust your posture during the postpartum recovery process.
- Hemorrhoids: For mothers who experience hemorrhoids after giving birth, you can use hemorrhoid creams or suppositories to reduce discomfort. Using a witch hazel pad or pain-relieving spray is also effective. Another tip is to soak the anus in warm water to improve the condition of postpartum hemorrhoids. In addition, keep stools soft by eating plenty of fiber and using laxatives (if necessary).
- Sore breasts: If your breasts are full or painful, you should breastfeed frequently on both sides. You can also use a breast pump to reduce breast pain. Breast pumps often have a gentle massage mode and help limit the condition of breasts being too full of milk. When not breastfeeding, you should wear a supportive or soft bra to reduce discomfort.
When to Seek Medical Advice?
Postpartum pain is completely normal and very common. However, if you experience severe pain or unusual symptoms, you should seek professional medical help immediately. Here are some signs that you need medical attention.
- Vaginal discharge with an unpleasant odor accompanied by high fever
- Vaginal pain that lasts too long
- Incision site swelling, redness, discharge, and increased pain
- Breast pain and lumps
- Severe pain in the lower abdomen
Finally, it is advisable to attend regular postpartum checkups. The American Academy of Obstetricians and Gynecologists recommends that new mothers attend checkups within the first 12 weeks after giving birth. Regular checkups will help your doctor monitor your recovery, your baby’s development, and provide helpful advice.
Final Words
Pain is an inevitable part of postpartum recovery, but it’s something you can manage. Start with small steps – make simple lifestyle changes, apply the right remedies, and always consult your doctor when needed. Each day can feel a little lighter with a little patience, self-care, and the tips we’ve shared above.
