Pain During the Perinatal Period

Physical pain in the perinatal period results from series of bodily changes in the birthing person, and the changes in demand on the body for childcare for both the birthing person and birth partner.

To address physical pain, here are some management strategies:

How can pain developed in the perinatal period become chronic?

We learned from our persistent pain education that there can be many contributing factors on our pain experience. To review them, click here (link to P factors).

With the perinatal period, we can expand upon these factors, as seen below:

It is important to be honest with ourselves about how we are feeling along our journey. Sometimes, these flags do not present themselves until much later on. The sooner they are identified and addressed, the better the pain outcomes will be. Of course, we have to understand that some of these factors are not in our control, whereas others we can influence. Having a mindset of changing what you can change, and accepting what you cannot, is critical for peace of mind.

Management strategies should pain persist may include:

increasing physical activity
reaching out for physical and emotional support
talking to friends, family, and other parents (if a positive influence)
joining support groups and organized activities for parents with babies
open communication with partner about needs
discuss any mental health issues with doctor or other qualified healthcare professional
consider what works best for everyone’s health with regards to feeding baby and caring for baby overnight
if financially available, hiring support as you require (e.g., night doula so you can sleep, nanny so you can take care of other priorities, meal kits so you do not have to worry about meals while still eating healthy)