Dealing with after birth pain

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Painful breasts

When your milk comes in, around the third or fourth day, you'll know about it! Your breasts become fuller, firm and can feel very 'engorged'. The slightest knock can make you wince. But don't worry, it'll all settle down within a couple of weeks.

If you develop a tender area in a breast and feel 'fluey', you may have mastitis. Try to keep breastfeeding, but contact your midwife or GP as you may need treatment.

Swollen legs

Many mums develop swollen feet and legs after giving birth, even if they didn't during pregnancy. It's due to circulation readjusting. For most, it clears in a few days, but some have it for weeks. Whatever kind of birth you had, it's important to exercise your feet soon after. Try a pedalling action, then stretching and relaxing your feet.

Although swelling is normal, pain isn't, so tell your midwife or GP of any pain or inflammation. It might indicate DVT (deep vein thrombosis) which requires immediate attention.

Toilet trouble

Don't worry if you don't open your bowels for a few days after the birth, as this is normal. Try to avoid constipation, though, otherwise it'll be more uncomfortable when you do go. Eat lots of fibre, veg and fruit, especially prunes and figs, and drink lots of water. Haemorrhoids (piles) are quite common, but are easily treated with a cream. Sometimes they'll disappear on their own, but see your GP if you're worried.

If you've had a tear, it may sting when you wee. Keep a jug of water by the loo and pour it between your legs when you go. If the pain continues, there's blood in your urine or you feel unwell, contact your midwife or GP, as you may have an infection.

Urinary incontinence is also common after birth, so be sure to do your pelvic-floor exercises. Mention it to your GP if it's still an issue at six weeks.

By Anne Richley, midwife