What causes intermittent stomach pain two days after a vaginal delivery?
Oct 13, 2022
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Lv Aiming
Introduction
Abdominal cramping two days after a vaginal delivery may be caused by uterine contractions, wound pain, or improper postpartum care. After childbirth, women experience uterine contractions to expel residual blood and lochia. A large fetus can cause perineal tearing; the incision usually heals within about a week, and the pain gradually subsides. If a woman consumes cold-natured or irritating foods after delivery, she may experience abdominal pain; it is recommended to eat warm, heated foods instead.
Generally, abdominal cramping two days after a vaginal delivery may be caused by uterine contractions, wound pain, or improper postpartum care. Appropriate measures can be taken based on the specific cause.
1. Uterine contractions: After vaginal delivery, the uterus contracts to expel residual blood and gradually return to its pre-pregnancy state. This process may cause intermittent abdominal pain, which is a normal physiological phenomenon. It typically lasts for about 2–3 days and resolves on its own. The mother can get adequate rest or drink herbal remedies such as motherwort granules or warm brown sugar water to help alleviate discomfort.
2. Wound pain: If the baby is large, vaginal delivery may result in perineal tearing, or an episiotomy may have been performed during labor. Both situations can lead to intermittent abdominal pain within two days post-delivery. The mother should rest in bed and clean the area daily with iodophor to prevent infection. Typically, the incision heals within about one week, and the pain gradually subsides.
3. Improper care: Within two days after delivery, consuming cold or irritating foods may stimulate the gastrointestinal mucosa, causing intermittent abdominal pain. Postpartum women should eat warm, nourishing foods and avoid cold or irritating foods.
