Gas and Bloating

Gas and Bloating After Childbirth: Causes and What Helps

After the baby is born, many women expect their belly to become flat immediately, but often encounter a feeling of bloating, distension, and increased gas production. This can cause both physical discomfort and psychological distress, as you may still look "a little pregnant." This is a completely normal phenomenon related to the recovery of your digestive system.

Why does bloating occur?

• Slowed bowel activity. During pregnancy, the hormone progesterone relaxed the muscles of the intestine. After delivery it takes several days or even weeks for it to return to its normal tone. Slowed peristalsis promotes gas accumulation.
• Recovery after a cesarean section. Any abdominal surgery temporarily "paralyzes" bowel function, leading to severe bloating in the first days after the operation.
• Weakened abdominal muscles. Stretched and weakened abdominal wall muscles provide poorer support for internal organs, which can also contribute to bloating.
• Constipation. This is one of the main causes. When stool masses linger in the intestine, it leads to increased fermentation and gas production.
• Changes in diet. The diet in the maternity ward, and later at home, may differ from usual, also affecting digestion.

Relief can be helped by light physical activity (walking), clockwise abdominal massage, adequate water intake, and adjusting nutrition. It is important to avoid foods that provoke gas (cabbage, legumes, carbonated drinks), especially in the first weeks.