C-Section recovery looks different for everyone. However, the c-section scar massage is the one universal thing that every c-section mama should be doing to prevent many painful problems in the future.
C-Section Scar Massage
Once you have come through the weeds in your c-section recovery and your body is on the mend, massaging your c-section scar is the next phase that you need to give attention to. This very simple and quick exercise will save you many painful problems down the road.
At my six weeks follow-up appointment I asked my doctor why the scar area was still swollen. She nonchalantly said, “oh, that’s scar tissue” and moved on to the next topic at hand.
Later that evening I did my own research on c-section scar tissue and learned why it is important to massage your scar.
RELATED: Emotional Healing After C-section: Tips to Help Your Recovery
What is Scar Tissue?
Scar tissue is the fibrous tissue that forms after normal tissue is damaged by significant injury or surgery.
Normal, undamaged fibers are naturally smooth and straight. Once damaged, the scar tissue grows back in all directions like a tree root or spider web, forming adhesions. Adhesions are fibrous bands that form between tissues and organs connecting tissues that are not normally connected. This latching can cause pain and disrupt the normal movement of muscles and the proper functioning of organs.
Why Should You Massage Your C-Section Scar?
The painful impacts of scar tissue can vary and develop over time, sometimes years later. C-section scar massage therapy decreases the tension in the area and realigns the scar tissue, preventing unwanted adhesions.
Not all adhesions cause problems, but some prevent muscles and other tissues and organs from functioning and moving properly. After a c-section, it is common for abdominal adhesions to develop on your bladder, uterus, ovary, and colon causing a number of issues. Some women don’t start experiencing issues until years down the line as the scar tissue becomes more severe.
Low back pain
One of the most common issues that can arise is low back pain. Scar tissue adheres to the tissues in front of and around the sacrum. When this happens, movements such as bending over and twisting become restricted creating lasting low back pain.
Pelvic pain
happens when adhesions bind one organ in the pelvic area to another, such as the bladder, uterus, ovary, and colon. This binding limits mobility creating pain in the region.
Pain during intercourse
occurs when the uterus and surrounding tissues in the pelvic region are restricted, deep thrusting can be extremely painful.
Bladder frequency
Frequent urination occurs when the scar tissue surrounds the bladder preventing the bladder from fully expanding. Your body thinks your bladder is full and the result is feeling like you need to pee every 15-20 minutes.
Poor posture
Over time poor posture can sneak up on you as the adhesions create tightness, tension, and reduced mobility around the scar. To relieve and counter the tension, you may begin to slightly lean and hunch forward to alleviate the pulling feeling.
When Can You Start Massaging Your C-Section Scar?
Once your c-section wound is fully healed and you get the okay from your doctor, usually around 6-8 weeks postpartum, you can begin the massage technique. Note that it is never too late to gain benefits from massaging your scar, even if it has been years since the procedure.
After a c-section it is common for some women to feel disconnected to this part of your body, or afraid to touch the scar. Massage therapy is a great way for you to get back in sync with your body while at the same time aiding the healing process.
How to Massage C-Section Scar?
C-section massage is a quick and simple technique you can incorporate into your daily routine. I do mine when I lay down at night for bed, but you can do it anytime in the day.
Everyday I use this Skin & Scar Balm to do the c-section scar massage that I learned from these two great resources:
1| Two Strategies for Massaging Abdominal Scar:
SOURCE: Foundational Concepts
1: Skin stretching involves stretching the skin around the scar
2: Scar massage involves the skin directly on the scar
Scar Massage: Skin Stretching
Begin about 3-6 weeks after surgery, as long as the incision is well healed. This can be done on your own, at home, for 5 minutes/day.
- Place fingers 2-3 inches from scar.
- Stretch the skin by moving the fingers up and down around the entire scar.
- Repeat step 2 by stretching side to side and clockwise/counterclockwise.
- Massage completely around the scar, repeating each movement 5-10 times.
It is normal to experience a pulling or burning feeling when you initially are stretching the scar. If you feel an area that does not move as easily, spend a little extra time in this area stretching the scar.
Direct Scar Massage
Begin as soon as the incision is closed and well healed.
- Hold the pads of two or three fingers together. The fingers should be slightly arched.
- Place pads of fingers on the edge of the scar.
- Stretch the scar by pushing fingers ½ inch in one direction (indicated by arrows). Hold scar stretch for 10-15 seconds.
- Repeat step 3 by stretching the scar in the opposite direction
- Move along the scar every ½ inch-1 inch and repeat over the entire length of the scar, stretching in all directions (up/down, side to side, and diagonal).
Scar Lift and Roll
- Lift scar away using index finger and thumb.
- Roll the scar between fingers for 10-15 seconds
- Move along the entire length of the scar repeating every ½ inch-1 inch.
The c-section incision is deep, so you will want to work up to doing a deep massage around the area.
2| Video on How to Massage Your Scar
Take Good Care of Your C-Section Scar
When I left the hospital I was given instructions on the initial care of my c-section scar to get me to my 6-week appointment. But the long-term care is what was missing. I am so thankful that I came to learn about c-section scar massage. After a few weeks of doing the massage on myself for 5 minutes a day, with this Skin & Scar Balm, I have felt a lot more ease of movement, less tightness, and pulling in the abdominal area.
Our recovery, as c-section mamas, takes a different kind of time and a different kind of care. The more we can do early on, the better we will feel and heal in the long run. Along with the massage we can aid our recovery with a good diet and drinking lots of water.
RELATED: Emotional Healing After C-section: Tips to Help Your Recovery
A c-section scar massage takes 5 minutes. The benefits out weigh the time! Do it and you will feel better 🙂
I hope this information is helpful to you. As always, do not hesitate to contact your doctor or a pelvic physical therapist if you feel your scar is not healing properly or have long-lasting pain and weakness.
Drop a line below if this has helped you or if there is something that you do for your c-section scar. Share your whispers below- I’d love to know!