Postpartum coccydynia, or tailbone pain, is a common discomfort after childbirth. It affects the coccyx, the small, triangular bone at the bottom of the spinal column. While often unsettling, it is a common occurrence for new mothers.
Understanding Postpartum Coccyx Pain
The body undergoes significant changes during pregnancy and childbirth, and several factors can contribute to tailbone pain postpartum. The hormone relaxin, produced during pregnancy, relaxes muscles, ligaments, and joints. This makes the pelvis more flexible for childbirth, but the increased laxity can affect ligaments supporting the coccyx, leading to instability.
Pressure on the coccyx during labor and delivery is a primary cause. The baby’s descent through the birth canal can strain or injure the coccyx or its ligaments. This is particularly true for prolonged labors, births involving a larger baby, or instrumental deliveries. Pressure can result in bruising, misalignment, or fracture of the coccyx.
Changes to pelvic floor muscles and tissues also contribute to tailbone pain. The pelvic floor is a group of muscles and connective tissues that stretch from the pubic bone to the tailbone, supporting the bladder, uterus, and rectum. These muscles undergo stretching and trauma during delivery. Since pelvic floor muscles attach to the coccyx, dysfunction, tension, or imbalance can pull on the tailbone, contributing to pain.
Less common, direct injury like a fracture or dislocation of the coccyx can occur during childbirth. While these are more severe injuries, strain or inflammation are more frequent reasons for tailbone discomfort after delivery.
Finding Relief for Tailbone Discomfort
Managing postpartum tailbone pain involves practical, non-invasive approaches. Modifying how you sit provides immediate relief by reducing direct pressure. A donut pillow or wedge-shaped cushion, with a cutout to offload weight, is beneficial. Proper sitting posture, like leaning slightly forward, shifts pressure away from the tailbone.
Over-the-counter pain relievers manage pain and inflammation. NSAIDs like ibuprofen or acetaminophen reduce swelling and discomfort. If breastfeeding, consult a doctor or pharmacist to ensure medication suitability. Hot or cold therapy is effective; ice packs reduce acute inflammation, while heat packs or warm baths relax muscles and ease chronic pain.
Gentle movement and stretching alleviate tension in the pelvic area and surrounding muscles. Stretches targeting glutes, hip flexors, and pelvic floor muscles are beneficial, but avoid movements that worsen pain. Deep breathing exercises focusing on relaxing the pelvic floor release tension pulling on the tailbone.
Physical therapy, especially with a pelvic floor physical therapist, provides assessment and treatment. Specialists offer specific exercises and manual therapy techniques for coccyx pain and pelvic floor dysfunction. They also guide posture, body mechanics, and lifestyle modifications to minimize discomfort and promote long-term relief.
When to Consult a Healthcare Provider
While many cases of postpartum tailbone pain improve with home remedies, seek professional medical advice when necessary. Consult a healthcare provider if pain persists or worsens despite self-care for a few weeks. Ongoing pain unresponsive to conservative management requires further evaluation.
Severe, debilitating pain interfering with daily activities, like sitting, walking, or caring for a newborn, indicates a need to see a doctor. This discomfort suggests a professional diagnosis and potentially advanced treatment. Watch for accompanying symptoms signaling a more serious issue.
Red flag symptoms include numbness, tingling, or weakness in the legs. Loss of bowel or bladder control requires immediate medical attention. Signs of infection around the coccyx, such as fever, redness, or swelling, also warrant a prompt visit. A doctor conducts a physical examination to assess pain and, if necessary, orders imaging tests like X-rays to rule out fractures or other injuries.