C-Section Recovery with Pelvic Floor Physical Therapy
Recovering from a C-section involves more than just healing the incision site. It requires comprehensive care to address the deep tissue trauma and support overall recovery. Pelvic floor physical therapy has been shown to significantly aid in this process*, improving pelvic floor muscle strength, alleviating urinary symptoms, and enhancing quality of life.
Top Tips for C-Section Recovery:
Try to get plenty of rest while incorporating short bouts of gentle movement into your daily routine to aid in recovery.
Proper care of the C-section incision is key to preventing infection and supporting healing. Gently wash with mild soap in the shower, pat dry, and wear loose, high-waisted clothing to avoid irritation. Skip lotions unless directed, and watch for signs of infection like redness, swelling, or discharge.
Support your incision area with a pillow when you cough, sneeze, laugh or poop - this can reduce stress on the scar and pelvic floor.
It's easy to get caught up in caring for your baby but remember your body needs nourishment and plenty of fluids to heal effectively.
Use prescribed pain medications as directed and consider scar massage techniques to help reduce discomfort. The pain meds might slow your digestion down so ask about stool softeners and remember the water to avoid constipation.
Once it's adequately healed, massage your scar! Learn more here.
Keep in mind, you may feel a wide array of emotions after undergoing a C-section. Perinatal mental health therapists can be a godsend to help in this postpartum recovery period. You can search Pscyhology Today to find a perinatal specialist.
CLICK HERE for the answers to some other common questions we get about C-section. And remember - every birth and recovery journey is different. For personalized support, please reach out to a pelvic floor physical therapist (like us: at info@bostonpelvicpt.com or call/text (813) 303-0416), or connect with a trusted healthcare provider.
*Stone, Jennifer & Skibiski, Katie & Hwang, Sarah & Barnes, Courtney. (2020). Physical Therapy in Addition to Standard of Care Improves Patient Satisfaction and Recovery Post-cesarean Section. Journal of Women's Health Physical Therapy. Publish Ahead of Print. 10.1097/JWH.0000000000000187.T