You may have some pain after your delivery because of changes in your
body as it returns to its nonpregnant condition. You may have belly cramps from
passing clots and from your uterus shrinking to its nonpregnant size.
You may have a hard time urinating for a day or two after delivery.
Later, in the days and sometimes weeks after delivery, it
is not unusual to urinate more often than usual. Your body is ridding itself of
the extra fluid from pregnancy. Some women also sweat heavily as they lose
their extra fluid. If you have pelvic or back (flank) pain and symptoms of a
kidney or
bladder infection, call your doctor.
You may also have constipation or discomfort with bowel movements for
a few days after delivery. Your first bowel movement may be painful if you had
an
episiotomy or tear in your vagina. Drink plenty of
water and juices to ease constipation. You may also wish
to try a stool softener, such as Colace. You may have
painful hemorrhoids after delivery.
Use home treatment measures or talk to
your doctor about treating your hemorrhoids.
You may have pain, discomfort, or numbness around your vagina. If you
had a
cesarean delivery (C-section), an episiotomy, or a
tear in your vagina, you may have pain when you sit or walk. It may be uncomfortable to have sex during this
time. If your doctor has
given you special instructions to manage the pain or
discomfort, be sure to follow those
instructions.
