It is common for new moms to develop nursing cramps in the abdomen  a few days after delivery. This is because breastfeeding releases hormones that help shrink the uterus to its normal size.You should however know the benefits of breastfeeding outweighs the cramps associated with nursing so you do not have to stop nursing. Breastfeeding reduces blood loss after delivery, reduces the mother’s risk of ovarian cancer and is the best nutrition for your baby.

How to ease nursing cramps.

Here are ways to help you ease cramps associated with nursing

• Empty your bladder before you start breastfeeding. A full bladder makes cramps intense
• You should also avoid laying flat on your back.  Instead sit up “pretzel style ” with your legs folded in front   of you. This will help bring your uterus forward and relieve the pressure
• You can ask for prescription pain medication.

NOTE

This pain may continue for about 4 to 6 weeks at which point the uterus will have returned to its pre-pregnancy state.