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Ask A Childbirth Educator
Questions and Answer

Q. What exactly does postpartum pains mean?

A. Postpartum pains (also known as afterpains) are menstrual-like cramps that some women have after the birth of the baby. They are intermittent and usually last for the first day or two, and range from being mild to being more severe. Women often find that they feel them more often while nursing, because nursing releases oxytocin which helps the uterus to contract--this is normal and is a good thing. The contractions of the uterus help prevent excess bleeding after the birth. Afterpains are the result of the uterus going back into its prepregnancy shape. They usually are not too apparent with the first pregnancy, though they may increase with each subsequent pregnancy. Like menstrual cramps, some women have them very bad, some have them but they are not too painful, and some women don't have them. You may find some relief by laying a pillow over your abdomen and bending over it to put pressure on your uterus, or using a hot water bottle.

Afterpains should be intermittent: if they are continuous, if you begin to run a fever as well, or if you are soaking two pads every half hour call your caregiver immediately.

Karen Klimsak-Ungar, CCE has been a certified childbirth educator for Birth Works® since 1996. She is currently Managing Editor for the Birth Works newsletter, sits on the Birth Works Board of Directors, and serves on their National Trainee Review Committee. A happily married mother of two, she also continues to teach Birth Works classes as well as private classes.

Karen will answer your questions on fertility, pregnancy, birth, breastfeeding and babies. Her advice does not take the place of your practitioner. Personal answers will not always be possible.