How long will my stomach hurt while breastfeeding?

Understanding Stomach Pain While Breastfeeding
Breastfeeding can be a beautiful yet challenging experience for new mothers, and it’s not uncommon to encounter discomfort during this period. If you’re experiencing stomach pain while breastfeeding, it’s essential to understand the potential causes and how long you might expect this discomfort to last.
Common Causes of Stomach Pain
Stomach pain during breastfeeding can arise from various factors. One common reason is postpartum recovery. After childbirth, your body undergoes significant changes, and the uterus contracts as it returns to its pre-pregnancy size. This process can lead to cramping and discomfort, particularly during breastfeeding, as the hormone oxytocin is released, stimulating uterine contractions.
Another potential cause is dietary choices. What you eat can affect your digestive system and, consequently, your stomach. Certain foods may lead to gas or bloating, which can be uncomfortable while nursing. Additionally, if you experience food poisoning or a stomach virus, this can also contribute to stomach pain, although breastfeeding is still encouraged during such illnesses as it can provide immunity benefits to your baby.
Duration of Discomfort
The duration of stomach pain while breastfeeding can vary widely among mothers. For many, the discomfort associated with postpartum recovery typically subsides within a few days to a couple of weeks as the body heals. However, if the pain is related to dietary issues or gastrointestinal disturbances, it may last longer, depending on the underlying cause and how quickly you can address it.
If the pain persists beyond a few weeks or is severe, it is crucial to consult a healthcare professional. They can help determine if there is an underlying condition that needs to be addressed, such as an infection or digestive issue.
When to Seek Help
While some discomfort is normal, certain symptoms warrant immediate medical attention. If you experience severe pain, fever, or any signs of infection, it’s essential to reach out to your healthcare provider. They can provide guidance tailored to your specific situation and help ensure both you and your baby remain healthy during this important time.
In summary, while stomach pain during breastfeeding can be a common experience, understanding its causes and duration can help you manage it effectively. Always listen to your body and seek support when needed, ensuring a positive breastfeeding journey for both you and your baby.

Can a good latch still hurt?

If the baby is latched correctly, you should not feel pain. Remember, some discomfort may be felt in the first 30-60 seconds. If you’re experiencing pain during the feeding, pull down on the baby’s chin to bring the lower lip out. If pain persists, decrease the suction by placing your clean finger inside baby’s mouth.

How long do breastfeeding cramps last?

These pains usually last for two to three days after the birth. Women who have previously had a baby are more likely to experience after‐birth pains. Breastfeeding stimulates the uterus to contract and increases the severity of the pains.

When should I worry about postpartum abdominal pain?

Cramps that come and go and don’t last longer than about five minutes are normal. But if you’re experiencing pain that’s severe or steady, it’s time to contact your provider. Consistent abdominal pain can be a sign of postpartum endometritis, a bacterial infection in the lining of your uterus.

How long does breastfeeding hurt your stomach?

How Long Do Cramps From Breastfeeding Last? Breastfeeding cramps tend to get better in the early postpartum period. “The worst cramps usually occur in the first days to a week after birth,” Carroll says. “Most people feel some improvement by the time they leave the hospital.”

What is the 5-5-5 rule for postpartum?

The 5-5-5 postpartum rule prescribes 15 days of rest for moms following childbirth – five days in the bed, five days on the bed and five days around the bed. It encourages moms to take a break from housework and caring for older children, and simply spend time with the new baby.

How long does breastfeeding discomfort last?

Any discomfort that a new mom feels during breastfeeding should last only a few days as you learn through trial and error. As you’re learning, it may feel strange at first when your baby latches, but it should only be an initial pinch that goes away. If it’s more painful than that, it’s probably a bad latch.

How long after giving birth does your stomach stop hurting?

The cramping is caused by the uterus shrinking back to its normal, smaller size, explains Dr. Borton. Typically, the process of your uterus shrinking back down to its pre-pregnancy size can take around six weeks, but for some people, it can take even longer than that.

Why am I having stomach pain while breastfeeding?

Is It Normal to Have Cramps While Breastfeeding? Yes. During the first few days to weeks after delivery, you may feel strong, menstrual-like cramps in your uterus when your milk “lets down” (starts to flow). This is your uterus shrinking back to a smaller size.

What is the 3 month breastfeeding crisis?

These increases occur around the same time for all babies, hence the term “3-months breastfeeding crisis”. This crisis is the most well-known because it is the most challenging for mothers. One reason is that this crisis, unlike others you may experience before, can last up to a month.