Roughly one in three births in the U.S. is via Cesarean section, yet many moms are sent home with minimal guidance on how to fully recover from this major abdominal surgery. While your incision may heal on the outside in a few weeks, healing internally—and restoring your core strength—takes more intention and care.

At MiraSol Pelvic Health Physical Therapy, we believe that C-section recovery deserves just as much attention as vaginal birth recovery, and we’re here to guide you through it safely and confidently.

What Happens During a C-Section

A C-section involves incisions through multiple layers: skin, fat, fascia, abdominal muscles (which are usually separated, not cut), and finally the uterus. These layers are then stitched closed, forming internal and external scar tissue.

While your body is amazing at healing, that scar tissue can sometimes adhere too tightly to surrounding tissues, leading to:

· Limited mobility or tightness in the lower abdomen

· Pain with certain movements or exercise

· Poor core coordination

· Sensations of numbness or hypersensitivity around the scar

· Disruption of the body’s natural pressure system

Scar Mobilization: Why It Matters

Once your incision has healed and your provider has cleared you, gentle scar mobilization can help restore mobility to the tissues. This reduces tension, improves blood flow, and can minimize long-term restrictions.

Simple techniques may include:

· Circular or vertical massage around and along the scar

· Lifting and gliding the skin to encourage tissue movement

· Desensitization techniques to reduce nerve sensitivity or numbness

· Incorporating breathwork and gentle movement as you work with the scar

Scar work should be pain-free and gentle—and a pelvic floor physical therapist can show you how to safely begin this process at the right time.