Bringing a new life into the world is a remarkable journey, and for some mothers, this journey includes a cesarean delivery, commonly known as a C-section. A c-section is a surgical procedure used to deliver a baby through incisions in the abdomen and uterus.

Whether planned or unexpected, a C-section is a major surgery that requires specialized care and attention during recovery. While every mother's experience is unique, many women find that professional guidance can significantly enhance their healing process and help them regain strength and confidence in their postpartum bodies.

C-Section Recovery Time

The recovery time after a C-section typically lasts around six weeks. During this period, it's crucial to rest and limit household chores. Lifting anything heavier than your baby is not recommended. It is important to safely transition from certain positions, especially when getting out of bed or getting up out of a chair.

However, everyone heals differently, and some mothers may take longer to recover based on their body's healing process.

Returning to Work and Exercise After a C-Section

Your OB-GYN or midwife will assess your scar at your six-week check-up following birth. They will ensure that your scar has healed and give you clearance to return to work and/or exercise. At this time, you can ask your OB-GYN or midwife for a referral to a physical therapist who specializes in pelvic floor physical therapy.

C-Section Physical Therapy

To recover faster and better after a cesarean delivery, it's important to consult with a pelvic floor physical therapist after your 6 week check up with your OB or midwife.

Our team of pelvic floor physical therapists offers tailored support to enhance your C-section recovery. After getting to know you and your goals, and performing of thorough evaluation of your c-section scar and pelvic floor, your treatment sessions with our team may include a combination of:

• C-Section Scar Management: At FemFirstHealth, we specialize in treating scar tissue from your incision. We are experts in mobilizing your scars to promote healing and reduce discomfort. Our techniques can help minimize scar tissue formation and improve overall abdominal function.

• Diastasis Recti Assessment and Treatment: We evaluate and address diastasis recti, a common condition where the abdominal muscles can separate during pregnancy. Our targeted exercises help rejoin these muscles, improving core strength and stability.

• Pelvic Floor Rehabilitation: Contrary to common belief, C-section deliveries can also impact your pelvic floor. We can provide individualized exercises to strengthen and coordinate your pelvic floor muscles, in addition to hands-on therapy.

• Core Strengthening: We guide you through safe, effective exercises to rebuild your core strength, crucial for your recovery and daily activities

• Pain Management: Our therapists employ various techniques to alleviate postpartum pain, improving your comfort and mobility.

• Education: Education on proper posture and body mechanics to help you get back to doing what you love safety

Benefits of Physical Therapy After a C-Section

Pelvic floor physical therapy can significantly enhance your C-section recovery by:

• Accelerating your healing

• Reducing your pain

• Improving your core and pelvic floor strength

• Enhancing your overall mobility and function

• Boosting confidence in your postpartum body

• Preventing potential long-term complications

At FemFirstHealth, we understand that every mother's journey is unique. Our goal is to provide you with the specialized care and support you need to recover confidently and return to the activities you love.

Managing Pain During C-Section Recovery

Experiencing pain following a C-section is a normal part of the recovery process. Most women experience discomfort for several weeks, with significant improvement typically occurring between three to six weeks postpartum.

Here are some pain management strategies that we educate our patients on:

• Take prescribed pain medications as directed by your healthcare provider

• Support your abdomen with a pillow when coughing, sneezing, or laughing

• Wear supportive undergarments or compression garments

• Practice gentle movement and gradually increase activity as tolerated

While you can expect some pain, certain symptoms may signal complications. Contact your healthcare provider immediately if you are experiencing any signs of infection, including a fever over 100.4° F, a severe headache, and sudden onset of pain and/or discharge at the incision site.

Tips for Healing C-Section Scar

• Have a support team such as family or a postpartum doula to help with your baby especially the first 3 weeks postpartum.

• Remember that you just had major surgery and that you need to take it easy and rest as much as possible.

• See a pelvic floor physical therapist at the 6 weeks mark to improve your healing.

• Avoid lifting anything heavier than your baby.

• Drink plenty of fluids or consume warm soups or broths for healing.

• Avoid household chores if possible 

• Avoid exercise and sexual intercourse until after your 6 weeks appointment with your OB/midwife. 

• Limit going up and down stairs and position changes when possible. 

• Short and easy strolls are ok after 3 weeks but if something doesn’t feel right, be sure to return home to rest.

• Be kind to yourself!