Dr. Aruna Kalra – Blog

Post Delivery Tummy, Nipple Pain, and Episiotomy Pain Care

• March 28, 2025March 28, 2025
• 0

Motherhood is a beautiful journey, but it also brings several physical challenges, especially in the postpartum period. Many new mothers experience tummy bulging, nipple pain, and discomfort from an episiotomy. Proper postpartum care can help ease the discomfort and promote faster healing.

In this guide, we will cover essential care tips for your post-delivery tummy, nipple pain relief, and episiotomy recovery, ensuring a smoother transition into motherhood.

Postpartum Tummy Care

Why Does the Tummy Stay Big After Delivery?

After delivery, the uterus remains enlarged and gradually shrinks back to its original size. However, it may take weeks or even months for your tummy to return to normal, depending on factors like:

• The type of delivery (normal or C-section)
• Abdominal muscle strength
• Postpartum exercise routine
• Diet and hydration

How to Reduce Postpartum Belly?

1. Sleep on Your Stomach:
   • Sleeping on your stomach helps the uterus bend forward, aiding in its natural contraction.
   • If you have had a C-section, tie a belt around your abdomen while sleeping to provide extra support.
   • Try to sleep on your stomach as much as possible for at least three weeks.
2. Avoid Sitting Cross-Legged:
   • Avoid cross-legged sitting for the first week postpartum to prevent additional strain on your abdominal muscles.
3. Perform Postpartum Sit-Ups:
   • Start with gentle sit-ups three times a day for three weeks.
   • This helps strengthen the abdominal muscles and reduces belly fat.
   • Initially, it may be painful, but the discomfort will gradually subside.
4. Wear a Postpartum Belt:
   • A belly wrap or postpartum girdle can help support your abdominal muscles and aid in recovery.

Breast Care After Delivery

Breastfeeding is a crucial part of postpartum recovery, but it often comes with challenges like nipple pain, cracking, and engorgement.

Tips for Healthy Nipples and Pain-Free Breastfeeding

1. Use Breast Milk for Healing:
   • Your breast milk has natural antiseptic properties. After each feeding, squeeze a few drops of milk and apply it to your nipples.
   • This helps heal cracked nipples and prevents infections.
2. Apply Desi Ghee:
   • After feeding, mix desi ghee with breast milk and apply it to your nipples.
   • Desi ghee acts as a natural moisturizer, preventing dryness and cracks.
3. Avoid the Tug-of-War with the Baby:
   • If your baby is tightly holding onto your nipple, do not pull it out forcefully.
   • Instead, insert your little finger into their mouth to break the suction gently before removing the nipple.
4. Massage Your Breasts:
   • Regular breast massage helps prevent engorgement and improves milk flow.
   • Use warm compresses to ease pain and discomfort.
5. Maintain a Proper Latch:
   • Ensure the baby latches onto the entire areola and not just the nipple.
   • A proper latch prevents nipple pain and promotes efficient feeding.

Episiotomy Pain Care

An episiotomy is a surgical cut made in the perineum during vaginal delivery to help ease childbirth. The recovery process can be uncomfortable, but with proper care, the healing can be faster.

How to Take Care of an Episiotomy Wound?

1. Keep the Area Clean and Dry:
   • Wash the area with lukewarm water after using the toilet.
   • Pat dry gently instead of rubbing.
2. Use Warm Sitz Baths:
   • Soak your lower body in warm water for 10-15 minutes twice a day.
   • This helps relieve pain and reduces swelling.
3. Avoid Sitting for Long Hours:
   • Sitting for prolonged periods can increase pressure on the stitches.
   • Use a donut-shaped cushion to sit comfortably.
4. Do Pelvic Floor Exercises:
   • Start with gentle Kegel exercises to improve blood circulation and speed up healing.
5. Wear Loose Cotton Clothing:
   • Tight clothes can cause irritation and delay healing. Opt for loose-fitting cotton garments.
6. Apply Cold Compress:
   • A cold pack can help numb the area and reduce swelling.
7. Pain Management:
   • If the pain is severe, consult your doctor for pain-relief medications.

Final Thoughts

Postpartum recovery requires patience, care, and consistency. By following these simple yet effective tips, new mothers can experience relief from common post-delivery discomforts. Remember to listen to your body, take adequate rest, and reach out to your doctor if you notice any unusual symptoms.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. How long does it take for the postpartum belly to shrink?
   The uterus takes about six weeks to shrink back to its pre-pregnancy size, but belly fat and loose skin may take several months to tone up.
2. How can I prevent nipple pain while breastfeeding?
   Ensure a proper latch, apply breast milk and desi ghee after feeding, and avoid pulling out the nipple forcefully.
3. Can I do sit-ups after a C-section?
   Wait for at least six to eight weeks before starting sit-ups after a C-section. Always consult your doctor before beginning any exercise.
4. How do I know if my episiotomy stitches are healing properly?
   If there is minimal swelling, no excessive pain, and no signs of infection (like foul odor or pus), the stitches are healing well.
5. Can I sleep on my stomach after delivery?
   Yes, sleeping on your stomach helps the uterus shrink back to its normal size. However, C-section mothers should use a belt for support.