If you think that all of the pain and discomfort you experience during pregnancy somehow magically disappears once your baby arrives, I've got some bad news for you. You can expect to experience some pain in your nether region after giving birth, as things get back to normal down there. So while you're taking care of your new baby, you're going to need to take care of yourself too. Which is why you may need some DIY ideas to help with postpartum pain.
According to Everyday Health, uterine contractions along with pain and itching in the perineum, while common, can make thing pretty uncomfortable for new mothers. That discomfort can last anywhere between three and six weeks postpartum (or more), depending on how you delivered and whether or not you experienced vaginal tearing, according to What To Expect. Fortunately, there are plenty of natural remedies that can provide you with relief and won't interfere with your ability to nurse or care for your new baby.
Ice packs, warm sitz baths, and black tea are just a few simple things you can do to give your lady parts some relief while you recover from all of the havoc that was inevitably wreaked on your perineum from all of that pushing. Talk with your doctor about which methods are best to help relieve your pain. And while you're in the hospital, be sure to stock up on plenty of pads.
1Ice Ice Baby
Ice can work wonders to help reduce the pain and inflammation many women experience postpartum. As Parents mentioned, placing disposable ice packs in your underwear for 20 minutes every hour can provide pain relief. You can find the ice packs at the hospital, medical supply or drug store.
2Hydrate
Many new mothers suffer from headaches in the first weeks postpartum. According to Everyday Health, these headaches can be the result of dehydration, particularly for breastfeeding moms. While you're taking care of baby, don't forget to drink plenty of water to keep yourself hydrated.
3A Spot Of Tea
As Parents noted, the inflammatory properties of black tea can help relieve pain in the perineum caused by hemorrhoids and tearing. The site suggested you steep tea bags and place them directly against your skin or on a pad to give yourself some comfort. This amazing remedy also works to heal sore nipples.
4Sit In A Sitz Bath
According to What To Expect, a warm sitz bath — where hips and butt are submerged — can help soothe pain. Soak for 20 minutes a few times each day for the best results. The water alone will do the trick, but you can add oatmeal or herbs for relief from the pain and itching often caused by stitches, as Parents suggested.
5Kegel Exercises
You probably already know amazing these secret exercises are for your pelvic muscles. According to Baby Center, Kegel exercises can help speed healing and restore muscle tone to your pelvic floor after childbirth.
6Witch Hazel
According to Pregnancy and Baby, witch hazel is a great natural remedy for postpartum pain and hemorrhoids Apply pads soaked in non-alcoholic witch hazel to your perineum to relieve pain and itching. You can also freeze the pads and wear them for added comfort.
7Spritz It
Pain in the perineum can make peeing uncomfortable. Fill a plastic squirt bottle with warm water and squirt yourself down there while peeing to ease the discomfort, as Parents mentioned. You can also squirt the area after you've finished to prevent irritation from toilet paper. Just be sure to avoid squirting directly into your vagina. Add a few drops of tea tree oil, which has anti-inflammatory properties to provide additional comfort.
