A C-section is major abdominal surgery, and the scar it leaves — outside and inside — needs care. Many moms come to our postpartum massage months later, with a hard, tight or numb area. The sooner it is cared for (with medical clearance), the better.
What happens in the scar
As it heals, the body builds new tissue that sometimes “sticks” to the layers underneath. These are adhesions. They can cause tightness, a block-like feeling in the lower abdomen, discomfort when moving or a fold above the scar.
When can I start?
- Never before the wound is fully closed and dry.
- Always with your doctor’s approval, usually given at the check-up in the weeks after birth.
- Meanwhile, the rest of the body can be worked: back, neck, legs.
How it is worked
We start away from the scar with gentle movements around it and gradually reach it. The goal is for tissues to regain mobility: for the skin to glide over what is underneath. It should never hurt intensely.
Signs to call your doctor
- Redness, heat or discharge.
- Pain that gets worse instead of better.
- Fever.
- An area that opens or bleeds.
Beyond the scar
After birth the whole body needs to recover: reduce swelling, relieve the back from carrying the baby and rest. Postpartum massage combines all three. And if you are still pregnant, read whether prenatal massage is safe.
Part of our guide Pregnancy, postpartum and baby →
The information on this site is general guidance and does not replace your doctor’s assessment.
