Postpartum breastfeeding and uterine contractions

Many friends have heard rumors that uterine contractions occur during postpartum breastfeeding. There is no relationship between breastfeeding and uterine contractions. The reason why mothers experience postpartum contractions is due to uterine contraction. This type of situation can actually be treated in a variety of ways, such as changing sleeping positions, massaging the lower abdomen, applying hot compresses, etc.

Causes of postpartum uterine contractions

The main cause of postpartum uterine contractions is uterine contractions. After delivery, the uterus gradually returns to its normal size through contraction. The pain is more intense for women who have given birth to multiple babies or those who have given birth multiple times, mainly because the uterus can only return to its normal size through strengthened contractions.

On the first day after delivery, the uterus remains at the level of the navel and then descends one horizontal finger every day. After 10-14 days, the uterus will return to its position in the pelvis and return to its normal size in 4-6 weeks. For breastfeeding women, when the baby sucks milk, oxytocin is released into the body, stimulating uterine contractions and increasing uterine pain. Postpartum abdominal pain may be cramp-like (especially when breastfeeding), which is caused by the contraction of the uterus in order to allow it to descend normally into the pelvis. This pain will disappear naturally after 4-7 days.

What to do if you have postpartum contractions

Generally speaking, postpartum uterine contraction pain will occur within 1-2 days after delivery and disappear naturally after 4-7 days. No special care is required. However, if the mother is in unbearable pain, she can also take the following measures to relieve the pain:

1. Change sleeping position: Let the mother sleep on her side and avoid standing or sitting for long periods of time to reduce pain in this area. It may also be helpful to put a cushion under the mother's buttocks when sitting.

2. Massage the lower abdomen: In the first few days after delivery, you or your family can use your palms to apply a little force to help the mother do circular massage until you feel the area harden, so as to promote the discharge of residual substances in the uterine cavity; when the pain is severe, massage can temporarily relax the uterine muscles and relieve pain.

3. Hot compress: Use a hot water bag to apply hot compress to the lower abdomen for half an hour each time. Be careful not to use too high a temperature to avoid burns.

4. Take painkillers: If the pain from uterine contractions affects your rest and sleep, you should notify your medical staff. If necessary, you can use mild sedatives to relieve the pain. It should be noted that you must follow the doctor's advice and never take medicine at random.

5. Traditional Chinese medicine acupuncture: Acupuncture at Zhongji, Guanyuan, Sanyinjiao, Zusanli and other acupoints can also relieve postpartum uterine contraction pain.

6. Psychological care: Use distraction, massage, and deep breathing to eliminate the mother’s nervousness and improve her tolerance to pain.