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What I Wish I’d Known Before I Had My C-Section

Writer's picture: Sabrina ThorpeSabrina Thorpe

Having a C-section can be a life-saving procedure, but it comes with its own set of challenges and surprises. If you’re preparing for a C-section or recovering from one, here are three things I wish someone had told me before my surgery—and how physical therapy can help address these issues.


1. A C-Section Does Not “Spare” Your Pelvic Floor

One common misconception is that a C-section protects your pelvic floor from issues like pelvic organ prolapse (POP). While a C-section may reduce certain risks compared to vaginal delivery, it doesn’t eliminate them. Pregnancy itself—with the weight of a growing baby and hormonal changes—places significant strain on the pelvic floor. Additionally, if you labored for any length of time prior to your C-section, you likely experienced shifting of your pelvic bones which can place your pelvic floor muscles at a disadvantage for proper function.


How Physical Therapy Can Help: A pelvic floor physical therapist can assess the strength and function of your pelvic floor muscles postpartum. Through guided exercises, hands-on techniques, and education, physical therapy can:

  • Improve muscle strength and coordination.

  • Address symptoms of prolapse, such as a heaviness or dragging sensation.

  • Help you regain confidence and prevent future complications.


Starting physical therapy early can make a significant difference in your recovery. You can start as early as two to three weeks postpartum, depending on how your recovery is going. An early start can help prevent the development of bad habits that can cause damage and take an extended time to undo.


2. Looking at Your Scar Can Be Emotionally Challenging

The scar from a C-section is more than just a physical mark; it can carry emotional weight. For some, it may serve as a reminder of a difficult birth experience or unmet expectations. Others may feel disconnected from their body because of it. These emotions are valid and can be overwhelming.


How Physical Therapy Can Help: Physical therapy goes beyond just physical recovery. Therapists trained in postpartum care can:

  • Provide gentle techniques to desensitize the scar area, making it less physically and emotionally triggering.

  • Guide you through movements and exercises that help you reconnect with your body.

  • Offer support and resources to address the emotional aspects of recovery.


If looking at or touching your scar feels too difficult, your physical therapist can help you work through these feelings in a safe and supportive way.


3. C-Sections Can Increase Feelings of Bladder Urgency

Many people don’t realize that C-section scar tissue and adhesions can affect bladder function. Scar tissue can restrict movement in surrounding tissues, leading to increased sensations of urgency, even when your bladder isn’t full. This can be frustrating and disruptive to daily life.


How Physical Therapy Can Help: A pelvic floor physical therapist can use techniques to:

  • Release scar tissue and adhesions, restoring mobility to the abdominal and pelvic areas.

  • Train your pelvic floor muscles to coordinate better with your bladder.

  • Provide bladder retraining strategies to reduce urgency and improve your quality of life.


These approaches are most effective when started early, but they can still provide relief even years after your surgery.


Conclusion

While a C-section is sometimes necessary, it’s important to understand its potential impacts on your body and mind. The good news? Physical therapy can address many of these challenges, helping you recover more fully and confidently. If you’ve had a C-section or are preparing for one, consider scheduling a consultation with a pelvic floor physical therapist. Early intervention can make all the difference in your journey to healing.


If you’re a mom in Waukesha, WI, Foundation Physical Therapy is here to help you with your C-section recovery. Schedule an appointment today to get personalized care and support as you navigate this stage of motherhood. Let us help you rock your pregnancy, postpartum, and motherhood journey!




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