After giving birth, it is normal to experience a variety of physical changes. From irregular bowel movements to bloating or hemorrhoids, many postpartum symptoms can feel uncomfortable, but most are temporary and part of your body’s healing process.
However, some of these same symptoms can also signal something more serious, such as colorectal cancer. While that may sound alarming, awareness is key. Knowing what is normal and what is not can help you catch potential warning signs early and protect your long-term health.
What Is Colorectal Cancer?
Colorectal cancer develops in the colon or rectum, parts of the digestive system responsible for processing and eliminating waste. Symptoms often involve changes in digestion or bowel habits, making them easy to confuse with minor or temporary digestive issues.
Because postpartum women already experience a range of digestive and physical changes, it can be easy to overlook symptoms that deserve closer attention. Still, prioritizing your own health is one of the best ways to care for your new baby.
A Growing Concern Among Younger Adults
Colorectal cancer is not just a disease of older adults. While overall rates have declined since the 1980s, diagnoses among younger adults have been steadily increasing.
According to the American Cancer Society, more than 107,000 new cases of colorectal cancer are expected in the United States this year, including nearly 3,500 cases in Tennessee. Between 2012 and 2021, colorectal cancer cases in people under 50 increased by 2.4% per year, and deaths among those under 55 have risen by 1% each year since the mid-2000s.
Because standard screening does not begin until age 45 for most people, many younger adults, including postpartum mothers, may not realize they are at risk until symptoms appear.
Researchers are still studying why this trend is occurring, but known risk factors include:
Being overweight or physically inactive
Smoking or heavy alcohol use
Eating a diet high in red or processed meats and low in fiber or calcium
Postpartum Symptoms vs. Warning Signs
During the weeks after childbirth, your body goes through significant changes as it recovers. Many of these symptoms are harmless, such as:
Abdominal cramps or bloating
Constipation or diarrhea
Hemorrhoids
Gas or irregular bowel movements
Fatigue or mild weight loss
However, some signs may point to something more serious. It is important to pay attention to any new or persistent digestive changes and discuss them with your provider.
Contact your provider if you experience:
Rectal bleeding or blood in your stool
A noticeable change in bowel habits (frequency, urgency, or stool shape)
Persistent abdominal pain or cramping
Unexplained fatigue that feels different from typical “new mom” tiredness
Rapid or unintentional weight loss
While these symptoms do not always mean cancer, they warrant medical attention, especially if they persist beyond the normal postpartum period.
Trust Your Instincts
Your body is constantly communicating with you. If something feels off, do not hesitate to speak up. You know your body better than anyone else.
Even if your symptoms turn out to be related to normal recovery or something minor, it is always worth getting checked. Early detection is one of the most effective ways to treat colorectal cancer successfully.
Comprehensive Care for Every Stage of Life
At West Tennessee Healthcare, our women’s health specialists are here to support you through every phase of life, from pregnancy and postpartum recovery to preventive screenings and long-term wellness. Our team provides comprehensive, compassionate care designed to help you understand your body, identify concerns early, and stay healthy for yourself and your family.
If you are experiencing unusual symptoms or want to discuss colorectal cancer screening, schedule an appointment with your provider today.
