After Labour Pains / After Birth Pains / Uterus Pains
In the days following the birth, you may experience cramp-like pains. The good news is that these after pains – caused by the contraction, relaxation, and contraction of the uterus and as uncomfortable as they may be – are perfectly normal and a sign that your uterus and stomach are returning back to their pre-pregnancy size. Known as involution, it starts immediately after birth and takes four to six weeks to complete.
During the first 24 to 48 hours after giving birth, the cramping will be at its most intense, but the discomfort should start to wear off within two to three days, then naturally subside within seven days of giving birth.
Medical Note: If the cramping lasts for longer than a week with no signs of letting up, you should notify your practitioner, as it could be a sign of infection.
Home remedies for after pains from the Maternity network:
- Try to urinate as regularly as possible, as a full bladder can cause the uterus to not contract as effectively, which can cause more afterpains and increased bleeding.
- You may find it helpful to lie on your stomach with a pillow under the lower abdomen. Gentle massage of the lower abdomen can also assist with the contractions of the uterus.
- Your doctor can also prescribe painkillers for you to take at home – although over-the-counter ibuprofen taken every four to six hours usually does the trick.
Birth story: A natural breech birth