C-section Recovery

A cesarian birth is major abdominal surgery and the recovery after this surgery is not something to be taken lightly.

During a c-section, 7 layers of tissue are cut through and abdominal muscles are stretched in order to get the baby out. This takes some time to recover from and also scar tissue can form after this surgery.

Often we focus on the scar that we can visibly see, but we also need to address scar tissue at the deeper layers of tissue. Which is where pelvic PT can really help. Scar tissue can form at the facial layer, muscle layer and around organs as well. Which can impact core strength, pelvic floor strength and mobility in the low back and the hips as well.

Here are some of my tips when initially recovering from a c-section. This is the first 4-6 weeks post-operatively.

1.) Use a pillow to support your incision when getting out of bed and going from sitting to standing.

2.) Focus on abdominal breathing to allow the pelvic floor and deep core to start to engage

3.) Pay attention to a pocket of swelling above the scar. If you notice this area getting more swollen, then it means you probably did too much. So slow down a bit and take more time to rest.

4.) Around 4-6 weeks postpartum, make an appointment with a pelvic PT.

We can still notice pelvic floor dysfunction after a c section. And can lead to things like incontinence, prolapse and pain with intercourse. So even if you think your recovery is going well, it is important to get some individualized guidance and exercise/recovery recommendations to allow you to recover to your full potential. Everyone is different, so just saying take it easy and easing back into exercise means so many different things for different people. An individualize approach is key!