C-Section Scar Massage: Why It’s The Missing Piece In Your Post Partum Recovery

Wondering Why You Can’t Get Rid Of Your Mom Pouch?

The scar tissue from your C-section can be unyielding and create a shelf between the scar and the underlying tissue. Whether you are early post partum or years down the road, you can make improvements in scar tissue at any time. Why massage your c-section scar? During a c-section, seven layers of muscle and tissues are cut. Scar tissue forms which is innervated with nerves which means that it can be uncomfortable, numb or just give you the creepy crawly feelings. Scar tissue is also dense irregular and strong, and can create adverse tension across your anterior abdominal wall. This could play a factor in anything from low back or hip pain, urinary frequency and bowel problems. 

How Postpartum Moms Can Do Scar Massage

It’s not uncommon for people to be uncomfortable with beginning scar tissue massage, so many just need to begin with some deep breathing and resting your hand on top of the area, getting comfortable with the pressure and connecting to the area which brought your baby into this world.You can begin some light desensitization typically at 6 weeks, beginning with just rubbing a light washcloth over the area. You can then start to gently creating a light pull above and below the scar.When you are ready to begin the actual scar massage, you can gently make circular movements, up/down, diagonals and then even plucking or skin rolling between your fingers. Keep the pressure light initially and increase asa you feel comfortable. At no point should the massage be painful. Do not do this massage if the incision has not healed, or if there are any signs of infection (hot, streaky, red, swollen). Also in the early stages avoid aggressive massage as this can promote more scar tissue deposition as it’s healing.Ready to start your c-section scar massage journey?

Need More Help On Your Postpartum Journey?

Contact our pelvic floor physical therapy practice in Ventura today to schedule a consultation and learn more about how our postpartum physical therapy services can help you get your body back and living the life you dreamed of.