C-section Scar Care

We cannot control birth, but we can certainly help our bodies recover from it. Did you know over 30% of people in the United States give birth via cesarean? Whether you planned your cesarean or not, taking care of your scar during after birth can help to reduce uncomfortable sensations in the scar and surrounding area.

Here are some simple ways you can take care of your scar at home.

Weeks 1-3 postpartum:

Practice belly breathing to help your abdominal muscles relax around the scar. You can do this in any position: laying down, sitting or standing. When standing, make sure you are fully upright with your hips extended, not bent forward at the waist in a protective posture.

Weeks 4-6 postpartum:

Begin gentle desensitization techniques around the scar. Practice this by touching around the belly and scar with soft, clean fabric. You can also begin getting used to touching around scar by placing your hands near the scar while practicing belly breathing.

Weeks 6 and onward:

Assuming your scar has healed and you have been cleared at your 6 week appointment by your provider, begin scar massage. This is important to help the scar and surrounding tissue heal. Use a little lotion and with your fingers move the scar up and down, side to side and in circles to help with tissue flexibility and reduce adhesions.

Disclaimer: If you have increased pain, redness, heat or other signs of infection around your scar, contact your healthcare provider.