ABSTRACT
Many women will experience some pain and/or discomfort in the days following childbirth. Conditions for which treatment may be necessary include perineal pain, uterine pain, constipation, nipple pain, uterine infection, breast pain and nipple and/or breast infection. Paracetamol is the analgesic of choice in breastfeeding. The amounts that pass into breast milk are considered too small to be harmful. Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), such as ibuprofen and diclofenac, may be used for more severe pain and for conditions associated with inflammation, such as mastitis. Topical applications may be useful for perineal pain. The use of lignocaine has been assessed in the context of clinical trials. Glycerin suppositories have a local action and therefore pose no problem for the breastfed infant. Stimulant laxatives, such as senna and bisacodyl, may cause colic and/or diarrhoea in the infant and should be avoided. Faecal softeners, such as liquid paraffin, should also be avoided.
