C-Section Scar Care and Recovery Tips Every Mom Should Know

Cesarean deliveries are one of the most common surgeries performed in the U.S. with an average of 1.3 million procedures per year. To put this into perspective, this is almost double the amount of knee and hip replacements performed annually. Yet for those recovering from this procedure, many are sent home without a rehab evaluation or recovery plan of care. And the biomechanical impact of scar tissue on healing is significant, especially during those long weeks of waiting for the next follow- up appointment. Scar tissue isn’t just skin-deep—it impacts how your entire body moves and heals. Understanding these tips can help maximize your recovery.

Scar tissue can affect:

• Core stability

• Pelvic floor function

• Abdominal pressure regulation (for lifting, coughing, laughing, toileting)

• Posture and comfort with daily activities

The good news? Even simple scar recovery techniques can make a big difference in your recovery.

Tools That Help with C-Section Recovery:

1. Silicone Gel Patches

• Brands like Elastoplast or Cica-Care are examples that provide gentle pressure that aids healing and often more effective than ointments.

• Always check with your provider before applying them.

2. Abdominal Binder

• Ask your hospital for one (many provide them free).

• Wear it snug (not overly tight) while walking or lifting, but remove it when lying down. You heal in the positions you recover.

• Adjust it to sit over your incision—not riding up into your abdomen or placing pressure down on incision or pelvic floor..

3. Pillows & Props

• Place pillows under your baby to bring them closer to you during feeding.

• Support your incision during coughing or laughing by hugging a pillow against your abdomen.

4. Squatty Potty or Step Stool

• Elevating your feet helps relax your pelvic floor during bowel movements.

• Always exhale gently instead of straining.

5. Soft Silicone Cups

When your provider clears you (this can vary), gentle scar mobilization with balanced pressure can:

• Improve tissue mobility

• Reduce tightness or sensitivity

• Support abdominal wall function

* A pelvic floor physical therapist with manual skills can teach you safe, effective techniques for your body based on your stage of healing and when silicone cups are appropriate to use. Often best to have manual palpation first to observe the tissue restrictions.

6. Returning to Exercise Safely Guidelines

Your scar is one piece of the puzzle—recovery also includes rebuilding your deep core and pelvic floor. Work with your physical therapist on:

• Deep breathing and pressure management

• Gentle pelvic floor strengthening

• Balancing of Core re-activation

• Gradual progression to lifting and exercise

*Skipping these steps can increase risk of pain, incontinence, or pelvic floor dysfunction later.

Your C-section incision is more than just a mark—it’s part of your body’s healing journey. With the right care, tools, and support, you can regain comfort, strength, and confidence.

✅ At District Physical Therapy in Capitol Hill, we guide moms through scar incision care, core recovery, and safe return to exercise. Book your visit today at districtpt.com.