Most women experience some pain or discomfort during their pregnancies. Some develop more severe conditions, requiring bed rest, while others are just plain uncomfortable and tired. There are a variety of symptoms pregnancy causes. While pregnancy is a trying time for an expectant mother’s mind and body, many look forward to the light at the end of the tunnel: a brand-new baby and some physical relief. Unfortunately, the pain and discomfort felt during pregnancy can often carry into the first few months postpartum. Check out this guide on how to get relief for postpartum pain.
Foot and leg pain relief
Many pregnant women experience swelling and discomfort of their lower legs and feet. This is a common symptom that can carry over into the first few months postpartum. Women often find that swelling remains an issue that is difficult to manage until about three months after delivery. One way to obtain relief for this is by continuing to wear maternity compression pantyhose after delivery. These will be comfortable and work to relieve or diminish your swelling. If your swelling persists, contact your doctor to discuss your options, as this may be a sign of a more serious condition.
Relief after vaginal delivery
After delivering a baby vaginally, most women experience pain for the first few weeks postpartum. There may be swelling, stitches, and other factors causing pain and discomfort. These typically persist for up to six weeks after delivery. To help minimize your pain, a method you may want to try is icing the sore area for 10 to 15 minutes at a time with half-hour breaks in between to attempt to reduce swelling. Always consult a doctor before treating yourself at home and seek medical attention if swelling persists, pain worsens, or you notice anything abnormal.
Relief after C-section delivery
Delivering a baby through cesarean section causes your body a different kind of trauma than a vaginal delivery does. The incision site may feel painful for a few weeks after the procedure and your ability to move may decrease. To gain relief from incision site pain, consider applying pressure to the incision when you have to cough or sneeze. Pressure is known to help reduce the amount of pain felt. Consult your doctor about safe pain medications to take, if any, and be honest about your pain levels so your medical care team can help you achieve healing and comfort as quickly and safely as possible.
