Post partum cramping: How long?

[MariposaMami]

How long is post partum cramping supposed to last for women who are on their 2nd, 3rd, or more child? I read on the forums here that a woman was having cramping 12 days after and it turned out to be an infection. What kind of infections could result post partum and how would they even start in the first place?

[cchrissyy]

I had severe afterpains for a few days (3?) after #2 and #3. I don't recall any logner term or lighter cramping.

As for postpartum infections, I think the main cause is something retained in the uterus, such as a bit of placenta, or an open/unhealed wound. Postpartum infections can be very serious - if youhave pain or fever or such, call a Dr. In the old days, many women died from postpartum issues. I have it on death cetificates in some of my family history records - they called it "purperal fever"

[MsBlack]

I think for most, the worst of the afterpains occurs from about 24hrs to 72hrs...with lots of variation. I've heard women report afterpains for days longer, and it was normal for them--but that is more unusual. Mind you, the contractions that are shrinking the uterus do go on for weeks, it takes time for the uterus to shrink all the way down to normal again. It's just that after the 3rd-4th day, the pains most often subside--they are not as intense or as frequent. Some women don't notice them at all anymore, others notice but it's not so painful as it was at first. I would definitely be concerned about strong pains that persisted for several days--infection is one possible problem that could be going on.

[Kidzaplenty]

Yeah, I think generally my afterbirth cramping last for about three days.

[nadia105]

I think they were worst the first day, but just about gone by day 2 or so.

[phathui5]

With my fourth baby, it lasted 4-5 days.