Postpartum Pain After Vaginal Delivery: What's Normal?

Question
8 days ago I gave birth.  It was a vaginal birth with no complications.  It is my third chid. I have been havng lower abdomanal pain wich I did not experance with any of my other children.  It hurts most afer I urination.  Is this something to bring up with my OB or is normal?

Answer
I'm sure that you are aware of the normal "after birth" pains that are due to the uterus contracting back to its normal size. These pains will continue for a few weeks after delivery. However, if you are complaining of pain after urination or if you notice that you have frequency of urination or urgency or burning on urination, you should certainly mention it to your doctor and get a urine culture and sensitivity to see if you have developed a UTI.