What it is
Afterpains, or afterbirth pains, are contractions of the uterus after birth. The uterus is shrinking from the size of a watermelon back to the size of a pear, and it does that by squeezing. Nursing releases oxytocin, the same hormone that drives labor, so the cramps are sharpest while the baby feeds.
What's typical
They are mild with a first baby and often strong with a second or third. The worst is usually days one to three. Most are gone within a week. A warm pack on the lower belly and an empty bladder make a difference for many mothers.
What's known
ACOG and most midwifery texts describe afterpains as a normal part of involution, the uterus returning to size. Many providers offer pain relief that is compatible with breastfeeding; ask what they suggest and when to take it.
What helps
- Empty your bladder before each feed. A full bladder makes the cramps worse.
- Warm pack or heating pad on the lower belly while nursing.
- Slow breaths through the cramp, the way you did in labor. It passes in under a minute.
When to call someone
- Nowcramping with heavy bleeding that soaks a pad in an hour, or large clots.
- Todaycramps that get worse after day three instead of better, or pain with fever.
- At your next visitpain that keeps you from feeding or sleeping.
Who helps
Tools: Postpartum Prep Checklist
Related
- Postpartum bleeding (lochia): what's normal, what's notPostpartum: Your Body
- Signs of infection after birthPostpartum: Your Body
- Colostrum and the first days before milk comes inFeeding Your Baby
What mothers here say
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Sources
- American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists — Postpartum pain management committee opinion
- NHS — Your body after the birth
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