Elimination problems after childbirth


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Elimination problems after childbirth


You may have some difficulty urinating for a day or two after delivery. Your first bowel movement may be quite painful if you have had an incision (episiotomy) or tear in your vagina. You may also have constipation or discomfort with bowel movements for a few days after delivery. Drink plenty of water and juices and take stool softeners to help soften stools and ease pain.

In the days, and sometimes weeks, after delivery, it is common to urinate more than usual. Your body is ridding itself of the extra fluid from pregnancy. Some women also sweat heavily as they lose their extra fluid.

Credits


Author Bets Davis, MFA
Author Kathe Gallagher, MSW
Editor Kathleen M. Ariss, MS
Associate Editor Pat Truman, MATC
Primary Medical Reviewer Sarah Marshall, MD - Family Medicine
Specialist Medical Reviewer Adam Husney, MD - Family Medicine
Specialist Medical Reviewer Kirtly Jones, MD - Obstetrics and Gynecology
Last Updated December 5, 2007

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Last updated: December 05, 2007
Author: Kathe Gallagher, MSW
Reviewed By: Sarah Marshall, MD - Family Medicine, Kirtly Jones, MD - Obstetrics and Gynecology
Editors: Kathleen M. Ariss, MS, Pat Truman, MATC

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