There are so many things no one tells you about postpartum recovery.

You expect to feel sore in your lower belly, maybe in your back or hips… 

…but then there’s this strange discomfort high up in your abdomen. 

Maybe it’s a dull ache under your ribs. Maybe it’s sharp or catches you off guard when you laugh, twist, or feed your baby.

And you think, “Wait… is this normal?” “Shouldn’t postpartum pain be lower down?”

If you’ve been wondering why you’re feeling upper abdominal pain postpartum, you’re absolutely not alone. It’s not something that gets talked about much, but that doesn’t mean it’s rare. And it definitely doesn’t mean you have to figure it out on your own.

Let’s take a look at what might be going on, what’s part of normal healing, and when it’s time to seek extra support.

Is It Normal to Have Upper Abdominal Pain Postpartum?

Yes, upper abdominal pain postpartum is normal.

Your body has gone through enormous changes during pregnancy, labor, and delivery. Muscles stretch, organs shift, your diaphragm, ribs, and abdominal wall all move to make space for your growing baby. After birth, these systems are adjusting back, but not always smoothly.

Upper abdominal pain postpartum can stem from:

• Muscular soreness or strain
  
• Digestive upset
  
• Shifts in posture and movement patterns
  
• C-section healing or scar tension
  
• Internal inflammation or pressure buildup
  
• Less commonly: medical issues like gallbladder problems, infections, or postpartum preeclampsia

Let’s walk through the most common causes and how to know if what you’re feeling is part of your healing, or a reason to seek help.

What Are Common Causes of Upper Abdominal Pain After Birth?

1. Muscle Strain and Core Weakness

Your upper abs and rib cage take on a lot of pressure during pregnancy, especially in the third trimester. 

After birth, every woman’s core is weakened. Movements like sitting up, feeding your baby, carrying car seats, or twisting awkwardly can easily strain the upper abdominal wall.

During this time you may feel:

• A dull ache or soreness when moving
  
• Pain when laughing, coughing, or rolling over
  
• Tenderness around your ribs or diaphragm
  

2. C-Section Recovery (Even if Pain Is Higher Up)

You might expect pain to stay near your incision, but what you’re likely not told is that tension and scar tissue can affect higher areas too. Tightness in the fascia and abdominal layers can create pulling sensations up near your ribs or chest.

You may feel:

• A tight or tugging sensation in the upper belly
  
• Discomfort when stretching upright
  
• Pain radiating from the incision area upward
  

3. Gas, Bloating, and Digestive Shifts

After birth, your digestive system needs time to readjust. Hormonal changes, medications, decreased movement, and dietary changes can all cause trapped gas or constipation which often shows up as sharp, crampy upper belly pain.

You may feel:

• Burping, pressure, or bloating
  
• Sharp gas pains that move around
  
• Discomfort after eating or lying down
  

4. Postural Changes

Holding and feeding your baby (especially during long breastfeeding sessions), lack of core support, and exhaustion can all lead to hunched posture. This puts pressure on your upper abdomen and diaphragm, causing tightness, pain, or shortness of breath.

You may feel:

• Pain that worsens the longer you sit
  
• Soreness across the upper belly or under the ribs
  
• A sense of “compressed” breathing
  

5. Gallbladder Issues

Pregnancy affects how your gallbladder processes fats. Some women develop gallstones postpartum, which can cause upper right abdominal pain that radiates to the back or shoulder.

You may feel:

• Sharp pain in the upper right belly after eating
  
• Nausea or vomiting
  
• Bloating or indigestion that won’t ease
  

*If this sounds familiar, reach out to your provider—gallbladder issues can escalate quickly and need medical evaluation.

6. Postpartum Preeclampsia

This rare but this serious condition can develop even after delivery. It usually occurs within 6 weeks postpartum and involves high blood pressure and organ strain.

You may feel:

• Severe pain in the upper right abdomen
  
• Headache, vision changes, swelling
  
• Shortness of breath or feeling “off”
  

*This is a red flag. If you feel this way, seek immediate medical attention.

What Does Upper Abdominal Pain Feel Like?

It can show up in different ways for different women, but most describe it as a dull, sore ache just under the ribs. 

Sometimes it feels like tightness or pulling in the upper belly, especially when moving, reaching, or twisting. You might notice sharp or pinching sensations when you cough, sneeze, or laugh, or feel tender to the touch in certain areas. For some, it’s paired with digestive pressure or bloating that seems to linger.

The pain might come and go, or feel like it’s always there in the background. It often gets more noticeable at the end of the day, after meals, or when you’re stuck in one position for too long.

However it shows up for you, just know that your body is speaking and there’s a reason behind it.

When Should I Be Concerned?

​​Most upper abdominal pain postpartum is harmless and part of your body’s natural healing, but there are times when it’s important to listen closely and seek medical attention.

If you notice any of the following signs, it’s best to reach out to your provider:

• Pain that’s severe or getting worse, not easing with rest
  
• Pain paired with nausea, vomiting, or fever
  
• Sharp pain in the upper right belly, especially if it comes with bloating or pain in your shoulder
  
• Blurry vision, swelling, or headaches – these could be signs of postpartum preeclampsia
  
• Pain that makes it hard to breathe, eat, or sleep comfortably

Even if the cause turns out to be something simple, like trapped gas or muscle tension, your peace of mind matters. You deserve to feel safe and supported in your healing. If something feels off, trust your instincts, it’s always okay to ask for help!

How Can I Ease Mild Upper Abdominal Pain Postpartum?

If red flags have been ruled out and your pain seems related to healing, digestion, or muscle strain, here are gentle ways to support your body:

1. Rebuild Core Awareness Gently

• Try diaphragmatic breathing (belly breathing) to restore connection
  
• Avoid sit-ups or crunches early on – they can worsen tension and are too much in the early phases of postpartum
  
• Use pillows to support yourself during feeding or rest
  

2. Ease Digestive Pressure

• Walk gently throughout the day to promote movement
  
• Sip warm water or ginger tea
  
• Avoid carbonated drinks, greasy foods, or excessive dairy if bloating is an issue
  

3. Support Scar Tissue (if applicable)

• Work with a pelvic floor therapist to assess C-section scar mobility
  
• Try gentle belly massage under the guidance of a professional
  

4. Be Kind with Movement

• When rolling over in bed, log roll rather than twisting sharply
  
• Use your arms to help push up from sitting
  
• Avoid straining during bowel movements – use a stool under your feet

A Gentle Reminder

Your body has done something incredible. It’s recovering and healing – even if it feels like it’s falling apart some days.

Upper abdominal pain postpartum can feel surprising or unsettling, but often, it’s simply your body’s way of saying: slow down, support me, and stay curious.

Frequently Asked Questions

If You’re Experiencing Pain, I’m Here For You

If something feels “off,” you’ve been dealing with upper abdominal pain postpartum and you’re unsure what’s normal, what’s healing, or what’s holding you back – I’m here for you.

Reach out here to tell me more about what’s going on. You don’t have to navigate this alone.