It’s normal to feel a range of pain levels as your body readjusts after a vaginal birth. Afterpains are the most common cause of this discomfort, and usually feel like menstrual cramps or labor contractions. They are caused by your uterus shrinking down to its non-pregnant size. Afterpains are the strongest around days two and three postpartum, and may last for up to ten days. This pain could be mild, moderate, or severe—everyone is different.
To help manage the pain, you can use a heating pad or take medication according to your healthcare provider’s instructions. A tender uterus is very common after giving birth, but it could also be a symptom of postpartum endometritis, an infection in the uterus. Symptoms usually begin within a few days of delivery and include lower abdominal pain, fever, bleeding, chills, and foul-smelling discharge.
You’re at a much higher risk for postpartum endometritis if you had a C-section. Oral antibiotics can treat it within a few days, so if you notice odd symptoms or your pain is severe, talk to your doctor.
