Articles
Postpartum care: What to expect after a vaginal birth
Urination problems
Sore breasts and leaking milk
Content
Vaginal soreness
Vaginal discharge
Contractions
Incontinence
Hemorrhoids and bowel movements
Tender breasts
Hair loss and skin changes
Mood changes
Weight loss
The postpartum checkup
Contractions
You might feel occasional contractions, sometimes called afterpains, during the first few days after delivery. These contractions — which often resemble menstrual cramps — help prevent excessive bleeding by compressing the blood vessels in the uterus. Afterpains are common during breast-feeding, due to the release of the hormone oxytocin. Your health care provider might recommend an over-the-counter pain reliever.
