Afterpains are caused by uterine contractions. They occur when the
hormone oxytocin is released during
breast-feeding. Afterpains tend to be stronger if you
have had more than one child. They usually are felt within the first few days
after delivery. Although they may cause some discomfort, afterpains help reduce
uterine bleeding and help shrink the uterus back to its prepregnancy
size.
If pain interferes with breast-feeding, your health professional may
recommend that you take a mild pain reliever such as ibuprofen (such as Advil
or Motrin) or acetaminophen (such as Tylenol) before breast-feeding.
