Background and aims: Although several studies have been conducted, the knowledge about persistent pain after childbirth is still limited. The primary outcome was the incidence of persistent pain eight months after the labour. Pain intensity, frequency and bodily localisation as well as pain´s interference with daily activities were also examined.

Material and methods: Data were obtained through two self-administrated questionnaires and the patient record system Obstetrix. The first questionnaire was distributed at the maternity ward to 1507 women during 24-36 hours after delivery and the second questionnaire was sent by post eight months after the childbirth. 

Results: Our results show, that 7.6% (n=89) had pain with onset during labour. Furthermore, 18% of the women reported pain during intercourse and 16% experienced pain during defecation. Over half of the women scored the intensity of their worst experienced pain as ≥ 5 on a 10-point NRS. The pain interfered with women´s daily activities, more than 1 in 4 women scored the pain interference to 5 and higher on a scale 0-10. Almost 40% of the women had pain constantly or daily. 

Conclusions: The findings of this multicenter prospective cohort study indicate, that persistent pain after childbirth is a common condition among Swedish women and that the pain may have negative impact of women´s quality of life. There is a need to improve knowledge and education regarding pain as well as to develop strategies for prevention and treatment of persistent pain related to labour.

THE INCIDENCE AND CHARACTERISTICS OF PERSISTENT PAIN FOLLOWING LABOUR - A SWEDISH COHORT STUDY