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.



Author: Bets Davis, MFA
Kathe Gallagher, MSW
Ralph Poore
Last Updated: February 26, 2008
Medical Review: Sarah Marshall, MD - Family Medicine
Adam Husney, MD - Family Medicine
Kirtly Jones, MD - Obstetrics and Gynecology
Deborah A. Penava, BA, MD, FRCSC, MPH - Obstetrics and Gynecology

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