THE BENEFITS OF CRYOTHERAPY FOR PAIN RELIEF IN THE POSTPARTUM PERIOD

Abstract

Introduction:  Perineal pain is one of the main complaints reported by women in the postpartum period, negatively affecting mobility, self-care, and interaction with the newborn. It may also interfere with breastfeeding by hindering the release of oxytocin, which is essential for milk ejection. In this context, non-pharmacological therapies have proven to be effective and safe alternatives for pain management, with cryotherapy standing out as a low-cost and easily applicable resource. Objective: To analyze the benefits of cryotherapy as a non-pharmacological method for relieving perineal pain in the postpartum period. Method: his is a narrative literature review with a qualitative approach, conducted between March and June 2025 through the Virtual Health Library (BVS). The LILACS and MEDLINE databases were searched using the descriptors “cryotherapy” AND “postpartum,” in Portuguese and English, considering publications from 2020 to 2025. Of the 13 studies found, 11 met the inclusion criteria. Analysis showed: The findings showed that cryotherapy contributes to the reduction of pain, edema, and inflammation, providing effective local analgesia for up to two hours after application. Clinical trials demonstrated that women who received cryotherapy reported lower pain intensity between 24 and 72 hours postpartum compared to those who did not receive the intervention. Concluded: Cryotherapy offers significant benefits in managing perineal pain after childbirth, reinforcing its relevance as an evidence-based obstetric nursing practice and as a strategy for humanized and safe care. Keywords: Cryotherapy; Perineal pain; Postpartum.