After giving birth, your body is going through a lot of changes—one of them being increased gas and bloating. If you’re feeling extra gassy, uncomfortable, or even experiencing trapped air that won’t seem to budge, you’re not alone! Gas after childbirth is completely normal, and it happens for a variety of reasons, whether you delivered vaginally or via C-section.
If you’re wondering why this is happening and how to ease the discomfort, here’s what you need to know.
Why Am I So Gassy After Giving Birth?
Gas buildup after birth is common and can be caused by several factors:
1. Hormonal Changes
After delivery, your digestive system slows down, thanks to hormonal shifts. This can lead to bloating, constipation, and more frequent gas.
2. Constipation
Many new moms experience constipation after birth due to hormones, reduced movement, dehydration, or pain medications. When stool stays in the intestines longer, gas builds up and can cause bloating and discomfort.
3. C-Section Effects
If you had a C-section, gas pain can be even more noticeable because air can become trapped in the abdomen during surgery. Post-surgery pain medications and limited movement can also slow digestion, making bloating worse.
4. Air Swallowed During Labor
If you pushed for a long time during vaginal delivery, you may have swallowed a lot of air without realizing it. This air needs to work its way out of your system, which can result in extra gas.
5. Changes in Diet and Hydration
If you’re not drinking enough water or eating a fiber-rich diet after birth, digestion can slow down, leading to more bloating and gas.
How to Relieve Gas and Bloating After Birth
The good news? Gas discomfort doesn’t last forever, and there are ways to ease it while your body adjusts.
1. Get Moving
Even gentle movement helps your digestive system get back on track. Try walking around your home, standing up more frequently, or doing light stretches to encourage gas to pass.
2. Stay Hydrated
Drinking plenty of water helps keep digestion running smoothly and prevents constipation. If you’re breastfeeding, staying hydrated is even more important.
3. Eat Fiber-Rich Foods
Fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and legumes can help get things moving. Just be mindful that too much fiber all at once can increase bloating initially, so introduce fiber gradually.
4. Try a Warm Compress
Applying gentle heat to your abdomen (like a warm towel or heating pad) can help relax muscles and ease gas pains.
5. Take Deep Breaths
Slow, deep breaths can help your abdominal muscles relax, which may make it easier to release trapped gas.
6. Use Gas-Relief Positions
Some positions can help release gas faster:
- Lying on your side with your knees slightly bent
- Kneeling on all fours and gently rocking back and forth
- Lying on your back and bringing your knees toward your chest
7. Consider Over-the-Counter Gas Relief
If gas pains are really uncomfortable, talk to your doctor about using simethicone-based gas relief medications, which are generally safe while breastfeeding.
When to Call Your Doctor
Gas after birth is common, but if you experience severe abdominal pain, bloating that doesn’t improve, or an inability to pass gas or stool, contact your healthcare provider. These could be signs of an intestinal blockage or other medical issue that needs attention.
Easing Your Postpartum Recovery
Postpartum gas and bloating are a normal part of recovery, but that doesn’t mean you have to suffer through it. By staying hydrated, moving gently, and making small diet adjustments, you can help your body get back to feeling more comfortable.
Be patient with yourself—your body is still adjusting, and this phase won’t last forever. In the meantime, don’t be afraid to laugh at the extra gas—it’s just another part of the wild and wonderful postpartum journey!
