Women's Health

Postpartum Pain Control
No matter how labor and delivery go, the body will need time to heal after delivery. The type, severity, and duration of postpartum pain symptoms vary from person to person. Some symptoms may last a few days, while others may last several weeks.

Symptoms of postpartum pain:
  • Pain in the back, neck or joints
  • Pain in the perineum (the area between the vagina and anus)
  • Pain around the wound (if delivery is by caesarean section)
  • Swollen breasts
  • Bladder problems
  • Bowel problems
  • Hemorrhoids

When to see a doctor:
  • Pain in chest
  • Difficulty breathing.
  • Having thoughts of harming oneself or the child
  • Severe pain in the lower abdomen
  • Pain and swelling in the legs
  • A headache that does not improve after taking the medicine, or a severe headache with vision changes
  • High body temperature.
  • Constant nausea and vomiting
  • Severe pain or burning during urination or that lasts more than a few days after delivery
  • Heavy bleeding.
  • Red lines on the breast or painful lumps in the breast
  • Redness or secretions from the vagina, perineal tearing, or abdominal incision
  • Foul-smelling vaginal secretions
  • Feeling of despair that lasts more than 10 days after giving birth



Uterine contractions or 'afterpains':
After childbirth, the contraction of the uterus is felt as it shrinks and returns to its normal size. These contractions also occur during the first days of starting breastfeeding. Placing a heating pad on the abdomen can help relieve this discomfort, and a pain reliever can also be taken after consulting a doctor.

Back, neck or joint pain:
You should talk to your doctor when you feel pain. This pain may be caused by strained back muscles, weak abdominal muscles, and hormonal changes during and after pregnancy. These tips can improve or prevent pain:
  • - Use a heating pad on the neck or back to relieve discomfort.
  • - Take the medicine after the doctor's advice.
  • - Follow the health care providers' instructions on the best breastfeeding positions.
  • - Use a pillow to support the arms and back.
  • - Avoid looking down for a long time while breastfeeding.

Perineal or vaginal pain:
A woman is likely to notice swelling and pain for a few weeks in the perineum (the area between the vagina and anus). To reduce anxiety:
  • Apply an ice pack or cold gel pack to the perineum for 10 to 20 minutes at a time. This is most effective in the first 24 to 72 hours after birth.
  • If sitting is uncomfortable, it is preferable to sit on a pillow.
  • A doctor can be advised about using an anesthetic spray or cream to relieve pain and also about using laxatives to avoid constipation.

Pain after cesarean section:
  • Take pain relievers as prescribed by your doctor.
  • Use warm compresses or a belt to flatten the abdomen.
  • Choose a breastfeeding position that relieves pressure on the wound.


Swollen breasts:
Women may feel breast pain and fullness (breast engorgement). Breastfeeding can often help relieve this pain. Cold compresses may also provide relief. Some women experience nipple pain, which is normal and improves by following the correct natural care guidelines. Provided by health care providers at the center.

Pain when urinating:
In the first days after a vaginal delivery, a woman may feel the urge to urinate but not be able to urinate. When urinating, she may feel pain and burning. Here are some ways to help reduce the pain of urinating:
  • Try sitting in warm water to reduce swelling and pain.
  • Turn on the tap while in the bathroom; to stimulate the flow of urine.
  • Drink plenty of fluids.

Constipation or painful gas:
It may be difficult to defecate for a few days after giving birth, or the woman may be afraid of defecation due to pain resulting from hemorrhoids or pain in the perineal area. These tips can be followed:
  • Drink plenty of fluids
  • Take short brisk walks.
  • Eat foods rich in fiber
  • Consult your doctor about a laxative if necessary





Last Update : 05 June 2023 09:59 AM
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