afterpain

afterpain

Etymology: AS, aefter + Gk, poine, penalty

one of many contractions of the uterus common during the first days after childbirth. Afterpains tend to be strongest during breastfeeding, in multiparas, after the birth of large babies, and after overdistention of the uterus. They usually resolve spontaneously but may require analgesia. The nurse reassures the mother that afterpains are normal and are an indication that the uterus is contracting as it should.

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afterpain [af´ter-pān″]

pain that follows expulsion of the placenta, due to contraction of the uterus, seen particularly in multiparas due to vigorous periodic contractions of the puerperal uterus. It is noticeable particularly when the infant nurses, and may be severe; the intensity usually decreases to become mild by the third day postpartum.