ARTICLE > caesarean section
Questions and Answers About Cesarean Sections
Is it normal not to feel anything around the scar? How can I avoid excess skin? And when can I start exercising again? The physical therapists at Mammaträning have compiled the most common questions and answers for those of you who are about to undergo or have undergone a C-section.
⚡️ Article summary
- The 10 most common questions from our moms who've had C-sections.
- Aftercare for your scar begins with gentle touch. You should wait about 10–12 weeks before getting a massage
- Exercising After a C-Section— What You Should Keep in Mind.
I have no sensation in that area after the incision—is that normal? What can I do?
Yes, it is normal to experience reduced sensation after the surgery. Nerves have been cut and need time to recover. Sensation may begin to return during the first year, but some loss of sensation may become permanent without causing any problems.
To stimulate the area, you can touch the skin with different materials—cotton swabs or freshly washed fingertips—both on and around the scar.
Should I massage my scar even if it feels strange?
Tightness and a sensation of numbness are normal and are expected to improve with scar massage, but the touch should not hurt. If it does, you need to reduce the pressure and start more gently, then gradually increase it later in the recovery process. Scar massage can begin 10–12 weeks after the incision. You can also use oil at first to reduce friction if you find that it feels better.
Tip! In the " Mammaträning " app, our physical therapist Viveka guides you through scar massage, step by step, in a video tutorial.
When can I start exercising again after a C-section?
You can start with the recovery program New Mom – C-Section right in the maternity ward! Here, we focus on gentle movements to improve circulation, which in turn promotes healing and reduces the risk of blood clots!
A new mom guides you through the first 8 weeks (the recovery period) and gradually increases the intensity as you recover.
Is it dangerous to start exercising too soon after a C-section?
No, not if you start gently and stick to the restrictions. It’s all about your body’s tolerance. Putting maximum strain on your abdominal wall when the scar is only at 20–50% of its strength isn’t the wisest move—there’s a risk of pain or a hernia. Gentle movement early on actually promotes healing. Start with New Mom—Cesarean Section during the first eight weeks and gradually increase the intensity.
💖 Ready to get started at your own pace?
8-Week Recovery Program created by Carolina Jozic, a licensed physical therapist, who coaches you through the workouts.
Is it dangerous that I feel a tightening sensation when I move?
Well, during the first three months, we want to avoid any tightness in the scar area because the scar tissue is still not very strong. After three months, however, tightness is actually a good thing because we want to increase the scar’s mobility!
What are the guidelines for running after a cesarean section?
You should wait at least 3–6 months after giving birth before trying to run, primarily because your body’s structures (pelvic floor, hips, knees, feet, cesarean incision site, etc.) need time to recover before being subjected to the impact of running.
Use New Mom and SStronger Mom to recover, and then run Return to Running to increase your running mileage the smart way!
What should I avoid doing after a C-section?
During the first few weeks, you should avoid heavy lifting, twisting, and straining your abdomen so that the scar can heal undisturbed. But don’t become sedentary! Even while you’re still in the maternity ward, you should get up into a sitting position and move around the room. Movement reduces the risk of blood clots and other complications, and also promotes healing. Don’t be afraid to move—just do so gently!
Why does my stomach bulge above the scar?
It’s very common to have “excess skin” above the incision—that is, for part of the abdomen or skin to bulge out above the incision. This is often because the scar is tighter than the surrounding skin, causing the scar to form a “ledge.” We recommend scar massage to soften the scar and any adhesions!
Are the abdominal muscles affected more during a cesarean section?
Yes and no! Many people mistakenly believe that the abdominal muscles are cut during a C-section, but that’s not true. During the procedure, the rectus abdominis muscles are temporarily separated, and the connective tissue between them is cut. For a woman who has had a cesarean, abdominal function is poorer after six months compared to someone who has had a vaginal birth, but after twelve months, there’s no difference!
Would you like to learn more about cesarean sections?
This is just a selection of the many questions that come up about C-sections. In the app, you’ll find more articles, video lectures with our physical therapists, and exercise programs tailored specifically to where you are in your journey—whether you’re pregnant or a new mom. We’re here to support you throughout your entire journey—not just with this one topic!
Article written by
Viveka Österholm
Physiotherapist
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