Postpartum Painaccording to TCM

What is Postpartum Pain?

Postpartum pain refers to the physical discomfort experienced by many women after childbirth. This encompasses a variety of pains including abdominal, back, perineal, and uterine discomfort. Commonly experienced by new mothers, this pain varies in intensity and can affect different parts of the body. It's a natural response of the body adjusting back to its pre-pregnancy state and healing from the labor and delivery process.

How does TCM View Postpartum Pain?

Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) approaches postpartum pain with a holistic perspective, recognizing it as a symptom of imbalance within the body. TCM asserts that childbirth disrupts the body's Qi (vital energy) and blood flow, leading to pain if not properly balanced post-delivery.

TCM emphasizes understanding the underlying patterns of disharmony causing the pain. It is believed that proper identification of these patterns is vital for effective treatment and restoration of balance in the body.

Causes of Postpartum Pain According to TCM

In TCM, postpartum pain is often attributed to two primary causes: 'Qi And Blood Stagnation' and 'Yin and Yang Imbalance.' Qi And Blood Stagnation occur when the flow of energy and blood is obstructed in the body, leading to pain and discomfort. This can result from the physical strain of childbirth.

Yin and Yang Imbalance, another common cause, refers to the disruption of the body's natural balance of Yin (cool, passive energy) and Yang (warm, active energy). This imbalance can lead to a range of symptoms, including pain, fatigue, and mood swings. Understanding these patterns is essential in TCM for providing effective relief and promoting recovery.

TCM Herbs for Postpartum Pain

In TCM, specific herbs are prescribed based on the identified patterns causing postpartum pain. For conditions related to 'Heat and Toxicity,' Patrinia (Bai Jiang Cao) is often recommended. This herb, known for its bitter, pungent, and cold properties, targets the stomach, large intestine, and liver to alleviate toxic heat.

For 'Blood Stagnation,' Sappan Woods (Su Mu) is commonly used. It has salty, sweet, and neutral properties, influencing the spleen, heart, and liver. It helps in treating Blood Stagnation, promoting blood circulation, and relieving pain. The choice of herbs depends on the individual's specific TCM diagnosis and pattern of disharmony.