There are more than a million cesarean deliveries performed annually in the US, accounting for nearly one-third of all births. Most women recovering from a cesarean section receive general recommendations, including avoiding lifting anything heavier than their baby, following pelvic rest precautions, and gradually returning to exercise. But beyond those initial recommendations, many women are left trying to figure out the rest on their own.
For women recovering from a C-section, it can be difficult to know what they are supposed to do. We are often told to “work on your scar,” but not many people actually know what that means. Likewise, we often hear about “getting your core stronger,” but, once again, it can be tough to know what is safe and where to start.
Research has identified a variety of issues that can occur following a cesarean, including back pain, abdominal discomfort, bowel and bladder symptoms, and scar-related restrictions. Some studies have also found that low back and pelvic girdle pain can be more common following a cesarean compared with a vaginal delivery. Although recovery looks different for everyone, research suggests that physical therapy in addition to standard postoperative care may improve recovery and patient satisfaction following a C-section.
Physical therapy is a routine part of recovery after many major surgeries, such as joint replacements and ligament repairs, so why isn't it more routinely discussed as an option for new moms? A C-section is major abdominal surgery, and recovery deserves more than simply being told to rest and wait for things to get better!
What other major surgery would we undergo with instructions to “work on your strength and prevent scar tissue formation” without additional guidance on how to do so? Between the abdominal incision, changes in core and pelvic floor function, and the musculoskeletal changes that occur throughout pregnancy, there is a lot for the body to recover from.
Physical therapy can help address areas that may be affecting your recovery, including:
Scar mobility: Once your incision has healed sufficiently, a physical therapist can help you understand how to safely care for your scar and address restrictions or sensitivity when appropriate.
Core strength and coordination: Rebuilding abdominal strength involves more than simply doing crunches or traditional core exercises. Learning how to coordinate your breathing, abdominal muscles, and pelvic floor can help you gradually return to daily activities and exercise.
Back and pelvic pain: Pregnancy and postpartum recovery can affect how you move, lift, and tolerate everyday activities. Physical therapy can help identify contributing factors and develop strategies to improve comfort and function.
Returning to daily activities: Rolling over in bed, getting up from a chair, lifting your baby, and even having a bowel movement can feel surprisingly difficult after surgery. A physical therapist can help you work toward these activities with greater comfort and confidence.
Returning to exercise: Rather than avoiding exercise indefinitely or jumping back into your previous routine too quickly, you can work toward rebuilding strength and endurance at a pace that fits your recovery.
If you have been struggling with daily tasks or feel like your body needs extra support recovering after a C-section, consider reaching out to a provider who can help!
A pelvic health physical therapist can assess your individual needs, help you establish meaningful goals, and develop a personalized plan to support your recovery. You do not have to wait until something feels significantly wrong to ask questions or seek guidance.
At Solstice Physical Therapy + Wellness, I provide individualized physical therapy to help women navigate pregnancy, postpartum recovery, and the many changes that come with different seasons of life.
If you have questions about your recovery after a cesarean or want to learn more about how physical therapy may help, visit solsticeptwellness.com to get in touch.
References
Stone J, Skibiski K, Hwang S, Barnes C. Physical therapy in addition to standard of care improves patient satisfaction and recovery post-Cesarean section. J Womens Health Phys Ther. 2021;45(1):10–19. doi:10.1097/JWH.0000000000000187.
