RE: [ozmidwifery] after birth pains

[Megan & Larry]

I had excrutiaiting after-pains with my fourth baby, 2hr spont waterbirth at home, I was in such agony it was almost unbearable, this was after the placenta had come away and before I had breastfed. I don't know how long they lasted, but as soon as I passed a heap of bloody clots etc they instantly calmed to a tolerable period pain feeling. Even with the feeding it never came close to the intensity of the pain I had experienced earlier. I wondered lots at the time why I experienced this and I settled with something at a higher level I didn't fully understand but was part of that particular birth. Not to mention I was completely exhausted after a very busy pregnancy, oldest child not yet 6, my uterus had a lot of work to do and ovbiously cleaning out any remaining matter that wasn't needed.   A friend having her 5th baby had absolutely no after-pains, quite unexpected and obviously enjoyed.   Not particulalry helpful I guess but maybe discussing it with her, exploring ways of dealing with it as far as pain relief eg, heat, touch etc. Maybe by being prepared for the worse, she may have dealt with it already and not need to experience it.   Interesting to hear what others think,   cheers Megan From: [EMAIL PROTECTED] [mailto:[EMAIL PROTECTED] On Behalf Of lyn lyn Sent: Sunday, 2 April 2006 10:32 AM To: ozmidwifery@acegraphics.com.au Subject: [ozmidwifery] after birth pains Hi all   I am seeing a mother G4P3 now at 36 weeks who has asked me if there is anything she can do about after birth pains.  She had severe suffering after her last two and would like to avoid if possible.   Can they actually be avoided.  and if so could that mean that there is a risk that her uterus will not contract down strongly and therefore she may bleed heavily.   A midwife I know talked about using coosh (not sure if blue or black, i have no experience with either).  Supposed to be an antispasmodic, which may not be ideal if we want a contacted uterus.   Thanks in advance for any help you may provide   lyn