Pain, activity limitations, and functioning among women after vaginal birth and Cesarean section: a cross-sectional study

Dor, limitação de atividades e funcionalidade entre mulheres no pós-parto vaginal e cesárea: um estudo transversal

Dolor, limitación de actividades y funcionalidad en mujeres en el posparto vaginal y por cesárea: un estudio transversal

Regardless of the mode of delivery, the postpartum period can be accompanied by pain and discomfort. This study aimed to compare pain, activity limitations, mobility, and functioning between women after vaginal birth and Cesarean section. A cross-sectional study was conducted with postpartum women aged 18 years or older. Pain (Numeric Pain Rating Scale), activity limitations, and mobility (timed up and go) were assessed between 12 and 48 hours postpartum, and functioning (WHODAS 2.0 - 12 items) was assessed 30 days later. The Chi-squared test, Fisher’s exact test, and Student’s t-test (α=0.05) were used. A total of 148 women were evaluated (mean age: 28 years); 53.4% (n=79) had a vaginal birth and 46.6% (n=69) had a Cesarean section. C-section was significantly associated with the presence of pain in the following areas: low back (p=0.03), abdomen (p<0.001), and lower limbs (p=0.01). Vaginal birth was associated with perineal pain (p=0.01). C-section was also associated with the presence of pain and limitations in sitting, standing, walking (p<0.001), lying down (p=0.001), and bathing (p=0.02). We conclude that C-sections are associated with a higher frequency of pain in different body regions, greater pain intensity, and greater activity limitations period. Mobility and functioning did not differ significantly between modes of delivery. Early monitoring is necessary to prevent functional limitations.

Keywords:
Postpartum period; Pain; Activities of daily living; Mobility limitation; International Classification of Functioning, Disability and Health