So, you had a C-section or are planning to have one and don’t know what to expect during recovery? Let’s chat!
C-sections are incredible medical procedures that ensure the safety of both mom and baby, but it’s important to recognize that they are considered major abdominal surgeries. Understanding the procedure and its impact on your nerves, muscles, and other soft tissues is crucial for a smoother recovery. Beyond the physical aspects, emotional recovery is also important, especially if your C-section was unplanned or done under emergency circumstances. Every C-section experience is unique, so recovery isn’t a one-size-fits-all process. That being said, there are some helpful tips and tools that everyone who’s had a C-section can use to help reduce pain and improve recovery.
What Is a Cesarean Section (C-Section)?
A C-section involves cutting through multiple layers of tissue to safely deliver the baby. First, the skin and subcutaneous tissue are opened up, followed by the fascia that covers the abdominal muscles. The surgeon then cuts through the rectus abdominis fascia, known as the linea alba, before moving on to the aponeurosis of the external oblique, internal oblique, and transverse abdominis muscles. Next, the parietal peritoneum, which protects the internal organs, is opened to access the uterus. Finally, the uterus itself is incised, allowing the baby to be delivered. Once the baby is born, all these layers are carefully stitched back together to facilitate healing.
Surgeons may choose whether or not to sew up the abdominal fascia, which connects the left and right abdominal muscles. While stitching this fascia can help tighten it and decrease the distance between the rectus muscles, potentially reducing the width of any diastasis recti (abdominal muscle separation), it can also lead to increased pain, pulling, and scar tissue restrictions. Finally, the skin is closed, but some of the nerves that provide sensation to the lower belly may have been cut, leading to possible complications like numbness or hypersensitivity in the scar area.
Why Would Someone Get a C-Section and What Are the Complications?
C-sections are typically performed for medical reasons, not just as an elective procedure. Common reasons include labor not progressing, breech position, concerns about the baby’s health, multiple babies (twins, triplets, etc.), hypertension, diabetes, or potential infections. Essentially, if there’s a risk of injury or complications for either mom or baby, a C-section is a great option to avoid those potential problems.
While a C-section can be life-saving, it’s not without risks. Possible complications include excessive bleeding or hemorrhaging, fetal trauma, infection, scar tissue pain or problems, and the need for future C-sections. Additionally, there are risks associated with attempting a vaginal birth after a C-section (VBAC). These risks can sound alarming, but regular follow-ups with your medical provider, pelvic floor therapist, and doula can help catch any issues early and reduce the likelihood of long-term problems.
To be proactive about your recovery, monitor for early signs of complications such as elevated temperature (above 100.4°F), consistent blood pressure readings above your normal range, or any signs of infection around your incision, such as increased swelling, redness, pain, or discharge. If you notice any of these symptoms, contact your healthcare provider immediately.
First 1-2 Weeks Postpartum After C-Section
In the first 1-2 weeks post-C-section, you can expect moderate pain and pulling around your incision. Wearing an abdominal brace or snug-fitting high-waisted underwear, shorts, or pants can provide compression and help manage pain.
Coughing and sneezing can be particularly uncomfortable, so using a pillow to apply gentle pressure against your incision can help reduce intra-abdominal pressure and protect the healing area.
Getting out of bed might be daunting, but learning the “log roll” technique can help minimize strain on your incision. Here’s how: Lie on your back and roll to your side using your arms for support. Swing both legs off the side of the bed and use your arm to push your upper body into a sitting position. Exhale through these movements to avoid increasing intra-abdominal pressure that can cause pain around your incision.
Even though your body may feel fatigued, getting up and moving is essential for reducing the risk of complications like deep vein thrombosis (DVT) or blood pressure issues. A recent study showed that women who took more steps after a C-section had significantly fewer medical complications than those who didn’t. So, it’s crucial to get moving, but start with small bouts of activity and gradually increase as tolerated to protect your pelvic floor health.
Should I Start Touching My Scar? I’m Afraid.
In the first 6 weeks postpartum, it’s important to avoid any direct touching or mobilization of scar tissue to allow the area to heal properly. During this time, the scar tissue is still in the early stages of healing, and any direct manipulation can disrupt the delicate process, potentially leading to complications such as infection, increased pain, or delayed healing. Your body is working hard to repair the incision, so it’s essential to give it time to form a strong foundation of scar tissue before starting any direct mobilization techniques.
How to Gradually Start C-Section Scar Desensitization and Mobilization
Starting with gentle desensitization and mobilization above and below your C-section scar can be incredibly helpful for long-term postpartum recovery before your 6-week check-up. In the early stages, lightly touch the area above and below the scar, gradually increasing pressure as you become more comfortable. Using soft textures, such as a cotton ball or your fingertips, start by gently touching the skin above and below the scar. This can help your body get used to sensation in the area and reduce feelings of numbness or sensitivity over time.
As you progress, you can introduce gentle massage techniques, focusing on the tissue above and below the scar. This can help improve circulation, reduce adhesions, and promote better healing. Remember, it’s important to delay any direct scar tissue touching or mobilization techniques until you have been medically cleared by a healthcare practitioner.
The Importance of Scar Desensitization and Mobilization in Long-Term Recovery
Over time, this gradual approach to scar desensitization and mobilization plays a vital role in your overall recovery. Addressing muscular pulling, sensitivity issues, and scar tissue early can help prevent the formation of restrictive adhesions, which can limit movement and cause discomfort. Proper mobilization above and below the scar can also aid in restoring the normal function of the muscles and tissues around the scar, reducing the risk of long-term issues like pelvic pain or postural imbalances.
By taking these steps, you not only promote better physical healing but also support your body’s ability to regain strength and flexibility. This sets the stage for a smoother, more complete postpartum recovery, allowing you to feel more comfortable and confident as you navigate the journey of motherhood.
Next steps? We have designed a program to help
Recovering from a C-section requires patience and care, but with the right approach, you can support your body’s healing process effectively. Understanding what to expect during your recovery, monitoring for potential complications, and gradually introducing gentle movements and desensitization techniques can make a significant difference in your postpartum experience.
Our 6 Week Early Postpartum Rehab Program offers a gentle approach to healing your core and pelvic floor after birth. We recommend starting this program around 4 weeks post c-section, once your incision is noting good healing. It includes gradual and progressive exercises, as well as guiding you through scar desensitization techniques each week.
Remember, every recovery journey is unique, so listen to your body, seek support when needed, and give yourself grace as you heal. You got this Momma!
