A New Beginning

Postpartum Pain

MANAGING YOUR PAIN IS IMPORTANT Helping you manage pain is a priority because it makes it easier for you to recover and care for your newborn. Although everyone reacts differently, most women will have some pain or discomfort after childbirth. If your pain is severe or worsens, it may be a sign of another problem. Pay attention to your body — if something doesn’t seem right, it probably isn’t. Let your nurse know immediately. COMMUNICATING YOUR PAIN You can help your nurse by telling her your level of pain. They will ask several times a shift how you are feeling. If you are in pain, you will be asked to rate your pain on a scale of 0-10. Zero means you have no pain and 10 means the worst imaginable pain. Try setting your pain goal at a number at which you feel you need to take pain medication. This pain goal can be raised or lowered at any time during your hospital stay.

01 2345678910

Worst Pain Possible

Severe

No Pain

Mild

Moderate

Very Severe

0 1-3

4-6

7-9 10

Tell your nurse if your pain is: • Persistent • Unusual • Worse than what it was previously • Prevents you from doing things you were able to do earlier • Located in the right upper area of your abdomen or just below your breastbone • A headache with any vision changes or confusion • A severe headache that does not respond to pain medication or rest • Located in the back of either of your legs

Your nurse will support whatever pain goal number you choose to receive pain medication. If you are uncomfortable or in pain, let your nurse know. One hour after you receive pain relief medication, your nurse will ask you to rate your pain. This helps staff to know if your medications are working appropriately or if a different medication is needed. Tell your nurse as soon as you begin to feel uncomfortable. Always be sure to tell your nurse or provider if your pain becomes worse or does not respond to the medication. SCHEDULED PAIN MEDICATIONS Your obstetrical provider may prescribe Tylenol, Motrin, or both depending on your clinical situation. These may be the only pain medications that you need. Both are safe to take while breastfeeding.

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Your Hospital Stay