C-section pain can linger for years

Persistent pain after caesarean delivery can disrupt women’s daily lives, sleep, mood and even sexual wellbeing for months or years after childbirth, according to a major review published in Anaesthesia.

Researchers analysed 30 studies involving 28,295 women across 22 countries. Chronic postsurgical pain after caesarean delivery was linked with difficulties in general activity, walking, work and sleep, as well as fatigue and poorer mental health.

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In the early months after childbirth, more than half of women with chronic pain reported interference with general activity and mood, while 43% said it affected sleep. Some effects persisted at six and 12 months, and chronic pain was also associated with higher rates of depressive symptoms.

The findings are particularly relevant to Bangladesh, where caesarean delivery has become increasingly common. The Bangladesh Multiple Indicator Cluster Survey 2025 found that 51.8% of women with a recent live birth delivered by caesarean section.

Researchers say post-caesarean care should therefore extend beyond wound healing. Women with persistent pain need early assessment and, where necessary, multidisciplinary support addressing physical function, sleep and psychological wellbeing.