Why Does My Tailbone Hurt After Childbirth? Causes and Treatment

Tailbone pain is one of the common complications associated with pregnancy and childbirth. The tailbone is also called the coccyx. It forms the base of the backbone.



The main cause of this pain is increased pressure from the baby’s head while passing through the birth canal. It often intensifies during the later stages of active labour. Such pressure may result in bruising, dislocation, or even fracture of the tailbone.



Severe impacts may cause chronic pain and significant issues in moving your body. Therefore, it may become difficult for new mothers to care for their newborns.



What Is The Tailbone?The tailbone, also called the coccyx, is a small bone located at the bottom of your spine.



It helps:

• Support your body when sitting
• Provide attachment for the pelvic muscles and ligaments
• Maintain balance while seated

During childbirth, this area may stretch or move slightly to allow the baby to pass through the birth canal.





What Are The Common Causes of Tailbone Pain After ChildbirthThe following are the common reasons that may cause tailbone pain after childbirth:

Cause	Possible Effect
Increased pressure during birth	Coccyx strain or inflammation
Prolonged labour	Pelvic and tailbone soreness
Assisted delivery	Extra stress on the tailbone
Ligament and muscle changes	Ongoing sensitivity and discomfort

What Does Tailbone Pain Feel Like?You may notice:

• Pain when sitting on hard surfaces
• Discomfort while standing up from a chair
• Pain during bowel movements
• Tenderness at the base of the spine
• Pain that worsens after prolonged sitting

When Should You Consult Your Doctor?If your symptoms don't improve gradually within a few weeks, you should consult your healthcare professional. You need urgent medical care for the following:

• Severe pain
• Symptoms that continue for several weeks
• Sitting becomes extremely difficult
• Worsening pain
• Numbness or weakness in your legs
• Difficulty controlling your bladder or bowel movements

What May Help During Recovery?The following are simple measures to reduce discomfort:

• Do not sit for long periods
• Keep changing your positions
• Maintain good posture
• Start postpartum exercises (only if approved by your doctor)

The following exercises may help you:

Exercise/Yoga Posture	Effect
Pelvic tilts	For improving pelvic mobility
Kegel exercises	For strengthening pelvic floor muscles
Cat-Cow stretch	For reducing lower back stiffness
Child's Pose	For gently stretching of the pelvic muscles
Walking	For overall recovery

But you should always make a slow start and stop if pain worsens. Also, get medical help if you experience a sudden increase in pain.



Most women experience gradual recovery from tailbone pain after childbirth. You should consult your doctor if symptoms don't improve or worsen with time.




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FAQs on Why Does My Tailbone Hurt After Childbirth? Causes and Treatment

Is tailbone pain normal after childbirth?

Many women experience temporary tailbone discomfort after vaginal delivery because of pressure on the pelvic structures during labour.

How long does postpartum tailbone pain last?

Mild pain often improves within a few weeks. Recovery may take longer if the tailbone has been significantly strained or bruised.

Can a tailbone injury occur during childbirth?

In some cases, the tailbone may become bruised, displaced, or injured during delivery, particularly after a prolonged or difficult labour.