Why pain and discomfort after birth are normal
Words by
Clare Bourne, Pelvic Health Physiotherapist
Updated on
14 Oct 2025
Your body has just done something incredible, and intense. Feeling sore, stretched, or just not quite yourself is completely normal in the days and weeks after giving birth. But knowing what kind of pain is expected, and when to check in for help, can make all the difference.
Let’s walk through it together.
Pain that’s common, and usually nothing to worry about
In the first couple of weeks after birth, you might notice:
A heavy or dragging feeling in your pelvis
Sharp pain around your scar (after a C-section)
Soreness or tenderness near stitches or tears
These are normal responses to what your body’s been through. Your tissues, muscles, nerves and skin have all been stretched, strained or cut, and that takes time to heal.
Pain can also come from things like breastfeeding positions, awkward sleeping, or even carrying your baby in a way that tightens your neck or back.
So yes, discomfort is part of the picture. But suffering in silence doesn’t have to be.
Pain that deserves more attention
Here’s when to reach out to your GP, midwife, or a pelvic health physio:
Pain is getting worse instead of better
You’re struggling to pass urine or have a bowel movement
You're scared to move or hold your baby because of the pain
You notice new or intense pain around your scar or stitches
You are taking regular painkillers, but they do not help your pain
Sometimes, what feels like “normal pain” can actually be a sign of an issue, like an infection. Trust yourself. If something doesn’t feel right, it’s reason enough to check in.
You don’t need to tough it out
Pain after birth isn’t just physical. It can chip away at your confidence, slow your recovery, or make bonding with your baby harder.
Asking for support isn’t weakness, it’s smart, and it’s strong. There are options:
Pain relief that’s safe while breastfeeding
Pelvic health physio review and support after 6 weeks postpartum
Emotional support if pain is affecting your mental wellbeing
You’re not being dramatic. You’re being proactive. And that matters.
Every recovery is different
Some people feel fine within a week. Others take months. Both are normal.
What’s not helpful is comparing your healing to someone else’s. Instead, focus on:
How your pain changes day to day
What helps you feel better (position, rest, movement)
When you feel most uncomfortable, and if it’s getting more frequent
Keeping a little note on your phone about your symptoms can help you track patterns.
Gentle things that can help today
Use a peri bottle or pour warm water when you pee (especially if you had a vaginal birth)
Take pressure off your pelvis by lying flat once or twice a day
Use a pillow for support when coughing or laughing (post-C-section)
Try short walks or light stretching if it feels good
Rest, real rest, whenever you can
You don’t have to know what’s normal
Because the truth is, most people don’t. If something feels off, you’re not overreacting. You’re paying attention, and that’s what recovery needs.
Talk to someone. Ask the question. Book the appointment. You deserve support that actually supports you.
You just gave birth. You matter too.