How do you get rid of postpartum gas?

Understanding Postpartum Gas
Postpartum gas is a common yet often uncomfortable experience for many new mothers. Following childbirth, many women report increased flatulence and bloating, which can be attributed to a variety of factors. Understanding these causes and exploring effective remedies can help alleviate this discomfort.
Causes of Postpartum Gas
The onset of postpartum gas can be linked to several physiological changes and lifestyle factors. One significant contributor is pelvic floor injury, which can occur during delivery and affect bowel function. Additionally, constipation is prevalent in the postpartum period, often exacerbated by hormonal changes and the physical stress of childbirth. This can lead to a buildup of gas in the intestines.
Dietary choices also play a crucial role. Many new mothers may alter their eating habits, either due to cravings or dietary restrictions while breastfeeding. Foods that are high in fiber, while beneficial for digestion, can sometimes lead to increased gas production. Furthermore, the stress of adjusting to motherhood can impact digestion, leading to bloating and discomfort.
Remedies for Relief
Fortunately, there are several strategies that can help manage and reduce postpartum gas. Here are some effective approaches:
1. Dietary Adjustments: Increasing fiber intake can help alleviate constipation, which is a major contributor to gas. Foods like fruits, vegetables, and whole grains can promote regular bowel movements. However, it’s essential to introduce fiber gradually to avoid further gas production.
2. Hydration: Drinking plenty of water is crucial. Staying hydrated aids digestion and can help prevent constipation, thereby reducing gas.
3. Physical Activity: Gentle exercises, such as walking or postpartum yoga, can stimulate digestion and help move gas through the intestines. Poses like the cat/cow can be particularly effective in relieving bloating.
4. Stress Management: Finding ways to relax and reduce stress can positively impact digestion. Activities such as listening to music, reading, or simply taking quiet moments can help.
5. Over-the-Counter Remedies: Some women find relief using over-the-counter medications designed to reduce gas, such as simethicone. However, it’s advisable to consult with a healthcare provider before starting any new medication.
6. Time: It’s important to remember that postpartum gas typically diminishes as the body heals from childbirth. For many women, this discomfort may last from a few weeks to a couple of months.
Conclusion
While postpartum gas can be an uncomfortable aspect of recovery, understanding its causes and implementing effective remedies can provide significant relief. New mothers should feel empowered to discuss these symptoms with their healthcare providers, ensuring they receive the support and guidance needed during this transitional period. With time, patience, and the right strategies, relief from postpartum gas is achievable.

How do you get rid of trapped gas after giving birth?

Doing things like increasing your fiber intake and avoiding gassy foods like beans and broccoli can help with gas, says Dr. Wu. But the truth is, sometimes the best way to relieve gas symptoms is to take medication, and there’s no shame in that.

How do you release gas after?

Best home remedies for trapped gas

1. Move around. Walk around or exercise.
2. Get a massage. Try gently massaging the painful spot, which can stimulate gas to move downward and out of the body.
3. Do yoga poses.
4. Drink more liquids.
5. Try herbs.
6. Try baking soda.
7. Drink apple cider vinegar.

Does breastfeeding cause gas?

Common causes of gas discomfort in breastfed babies:
An incorrect latch while nursing leads your baby to swallow too much air. Excessive crying fills your baby’s belly with air. Strong let-down or oversupply, causing baby to gulp quickly and swallow air.

Why is my gas so bad postpartum?

Pregnancy and giving birth may stretch and injure muscles and nerves in the pelvic floor. This may reduce the control a person has over passing gas. The back of the pelvic floor controls the anus. It is not unusual for the anal sphincter muscles to tear during birth.

How to remove gas after breastfeeding?

What can I do to help my baby with gas?

1. Make sure your baby has a good latch so he doesn’t swallow too much air.
2. Burp him throughout the feedings to help get rid of the gas.
3. Try not to let your baby overfeed or feed too quickly.
4. Keep track of when your baby is gassy and look back at your diet.

How to make yourself fart to relieve gas fast?

Best home remedies for trapped gas

1. Move around. Walk around or exercise.
2. Get a massage. Try gently massaging the painful spot, which can stimulate gas to move downward and out of the body.
3. Do yoga poses.
4. Drink more liquids.
5. Try herbs.
6. Try baking soda.
7. Drink apple cider vinegar.

How long should postpartum gas last?

Postpartum gas should only last a few days, but if you notice it lasting longer, you have pain with pooping or hemorrhoids, consider scheduling with a pelvic PT to assess what may be the root cause for you.

How to release gas from the stomach?

Here are some quick ways to expel trapped gas, either by burping or passing gas.

1. Move around. Walk around or exercise.
2. Get a massage. Try gently massaging the painful spot, which can stimulate gas to move downward and out of the body.
3. Do yoga poses.
4. Drink more liquids.
5. Try herbs.
6. Try baking soda.
7. Drink apple cider vinegar.

Why am I extremely gassy while breastfeeding?

Anecdotally, some moms say other foods that commonly cause gas in adults, such as broccoli, cabbage, beans, cauliflower, garlic, or spicy foods, make their breastfed babies gassy or irritable. You may find that your baby’s gas improves when you eliminate a suspect food from your diet.