You’ve done it. The baby is here. The pushing is over. You finally expect your body to chill out for a minute, and then boom—cramping after birth hits. Wait, what? You might be lying in bed, feeding your baby, and suddenly feel sharp cramps in your lower belly. It feels like menstrual cramps—or even mini contractions. And you think, “Didn’t I already go through labor?”

We get it. It’s confusing. And slightly rude of your uterus, honestly. But don’t worry—postpartum cramping is completely normal. Your body is doing some major behind-the-scenes work to get back to “normal.” Let’s break it all down in plain language, no scary medical terms.

What Is Postpartum cramping?

We all know that uterus dilates during pregnancy to help push the baby out. Afterpains, aka cramping after labor, start when the uterus starts shrinking back to its regular size after birth. Just like a balloon shrinks back to its regular deflated size, the uterus also goes back to its original size, and this shrinkage causes cramping after labor. 

So, if you’re wondering why you’re feeling cramping after labor, it’s not because something is wrong. It’s a sign that your body is healing. It usually feels like:

• Menstrual cramps

• A dull ache in your lower belly

• Sudden sharp twinges, especially during breastfeeding

• A wave-like sensation (like mini contractions)

You want to know about your first period after giving birth? Don’t forget to check our blog on it!

What Causes Postpartum cramping?

Other than uterus shrinking, there can be some reasons for cramping after birth. Let’s break it into simple pieces. Here’s what causes cramping after birth:

• Surprise—breastfeeding triggers cramping. Why? Because when you breastfeed, your body releases a hormone called oxytocin. This hormone helps the uterus contract and shrink. Great for healing, but not so great for comfort.

• Your uterus is also trying to clean itself out—getting rid of leftover blood, tissue, and fluid. That discharge is called lochia. As your uterus contracts to push all that out, you’ll feel cramping.

• With each pregnancy, your uterus stretches more—and it has to work harder to return to normal. So, if you’re on baby number two or three, expect those postpartum cramps to pack more of a punch.

• Sometimes, a full bladder can push on your uterus and make cramps worse. That’s why peeing regularly (yes, even when it hurts!) can ease some discomfort.

How to Treat Postpartum cramping?

Okay, here’s the part you might have been waiting to learn about. How to treat postpartum cramping. We can’t make the cramps disappear completely, but we can help you manage them like a pro. And here is how you do it!

• Warmth helps relax the muscles. Try a heating pad on your lower belly, a warm water bottle, or a gentle bath (if your doctor gives the go-ahead). It’s a simple trick, but it can work wonders.

• A full bladder can make cramping after labor worse. Even if you don’t feel the urge, make a habit of going every couple of hours.

• Try to lie down, nap, or relax between feedings. The less stress you carry in your body, the easier it is to cope with the cramps.