I had the cramping type pains too...and yes, was told it's just the uterus trying to get back to normal.
I thought I was going to die...I had a 3 degree cut. I tore and then the doctor cut me and then I tore a little more...so needless to say, I was a mess down below. Got DH to fix me a sitz bath, just warm water, vinegar and Epson salt...and OH MY, I could not believe the difference it made. I could actually sit and not be in pain. Which I needed tending to a baby.
mandy-I had period type cramps for the first week anytime i breastfed. The health nurse said its 100% normal and a good thing, its your uterus contracting. IE getting Smaller!!
claire- i got 3 stitches and 1 "graze" and the graze hurt way more than the stitches!! thank god its getting better.
i havint got period pains but just a period! and a few painful grazes down there ouch it hurts!