Pain is expected after you give birth. Your body was involved in a major physical activity and needs to react to the changes. There are many things you can do for pain relief. Cold packs should be used during the first 12 hours. This helps reduce the swelling. Some maxi pads come with cold packs built in.

If you do not have access to these, ask the nurse to help you make a cold pack using gloves or a baggy and some ice. Be careful not to apply ice directly to the area. The goal is not to cause freezer burn, but to help reduce the swelling in the tissues.

You can also try a sitz bath. This is done by allowing warm water to pass over your perineum. Some hospitals or birth centers have special tubs or chairs designed for this. There is also a portable sitz bath available that you can use at home. If you have access to either, fill your home bathtub with about 6 inches of warm water. You can soak, but not bathe, in this water.

There are also commercial preparations or salves that you can add to your sitz bath. These are usually made from herbs that promote healing to the tissues and help with pain. Talk to your practitioner about using them or get a recommendation from someone who has used one.

There are also many medications that can be used on your bottom after birth. Witch hazel pads are commonly given out to help with pain and swelling. They can also be used for hemorrhoids. There are also a variety of creams and sprays available to use. Many contain numbing agents to anesthetize the area.