A C-section scar forms as the body’s natural healing response after a baby is delivered through abdominal and uterine incisions. While most C-section scars heal into a faint line, their appearance can vary. Scar massage is a technique to improve the appearance and function of these scars.
When to Start Scar Massage
Beginning C-section scar massage requires medical clearance from a healthcare provider. Generally, wait until the incision is fully healed and closed, typically six to eight weeks postpartum. Massaging too soon could risk reopening the wound or leading to an infection.
“Closed” does not mean fully “healed” internally. Early on, the scar may be tender, red, or painful, so initial efforts might focus on gently touching skin around the scar, not directly on it. Once the scab is gone and there are no open areas or signs of infection, a regular massage routine can begin.
Even if it has been months or years since the C-section, it’s not too late to begin scar massage, as scars can change.
Benefits of Scar Massage
C-section scar massage offers several benefits for physical comfort and scar appearance. It can help improve the scar’s look by flattening and softening it. Massage also promotes healthier tissue formation by increasing blood flow and aiding collagen development.
A key benefit is the reduction of adhesions, which are bands of scar tissue that can form between tissue layers, causing discomfort or pain. Normal tissue layers glide smoothly, but scar tissue can create “stickiness” that restricts movement. Massaging helps to break up and realign collagen fibers, improving the mobility and elasticity of the scar tissue and surrounding skin. This increased mobility can alleviate pain, reduce tightness, and improve nerve sensitivity around the scar, which may feel numb or tingly.
Additionally, scar massage may help prevent issues like a “shelf belly,” where tissue hangs over the scar, by improving skin tightness and elasticity.
Technique for Scar Massage
Performing C-section scar massage involves a gradual approach, starting gently and increasing intensity as the scar heals. Begin with clean hands and find a comfortable position, such as lying on your back with knees bent to relax abdominal tissues. Applying a lubricant like coconut oil, vitamin E oil, or a fragrance-free lotion can reduce friction, though some prefer to start without oil for better grip.
Initial massage, especially in the first few weeks after clearance, might involve light pressure around the scar. Use fingertips to gently move the skin above and below the scar in circular, up-and-down, and side-to-side motions. As the scar becomes less tender, gradually apply more pressure directly on the scar. Techniques include making small circles, moving across the scar perpendicular to its length (cross-friction), and gently lifting and rolling the skin between your thumb and fingers.
Aim for five to ten minutes of massage, once or twice daily, initially. As the tissue becomes more mobile, frequency can be reduced to weekly.
Precautions and When to Avoid
While C-section scar massage offers benefits, precautions are necessary to ensure safety. Avoid massaging if the incision is still open, has scabs, or shows any signs of infection. Signs of infection include increasing pain, redness, swelling, pus drainage, or fever.
If any of these symptoms appear, stop massage immediately and consult a healthcare provider. Persistent or sharp pain during massage indicates the pressure might be too much or the scar is not ready for direct manipulation. It is normal to feel some pulling or mild discomfort, but pain should not be ignored.
Conditions like a keloid scar (scar tissue extending beyond the original wound) or a hypertrophic scar (thick and raised but within the incision line) may require a healthcare professional’s guidance. Always consult a healthcare provider before starting any scar massage routine, especially if there are concerns or unusual symptoms.