4 Painful Postpartum Problems

Episiotomies, which are incisions in the perineum (the area between the vagina and anus) to make more room for the baby, aren't routine anymore, says Bruce Shephard, M.D., an ob-gyn in Tampa. But some doctors still do them, especially if you've been pushing for several hours. If you don't get one, tears in the perineum may occur -- usually as the baby's head and shoulders pass through. Whether you're cut or you tear, expect stitches and discomfort around the wound.

How to treat it: The first week, use a squeeze bottle filled with warm water to rinse the area whenever you use the toilet. Pat -- don't wipe -- dry. Sitz baths can also help. Aim for three ten-minute soaks daily. To alleviate soreness, sit on an ice pack for ten minutes at a time. Medication such as ibuprofen can help too.

When to call the doctor: Discomfort should lessen a bit each day. If the perineum becomes more painful or is bleeding, call your doctor. Also check in if you notice discharge, a foul odor, redness, or stinging when you urinate -- all possible signs of an infection.

Long-term care: Most stitches heal with no side effects. Occasionally, women have scar tissue that causes numbness or pain during sex.