How to Heal a C-Section Scar: A Pelvic Floor Physio’s Guide
Healing After a C-Section
Recovering from a caesarean birth takes time, care, and the right support. One area that often gets overlooked is scar care. Many women ask me, “How can I heal my C-section scar and improve recovery?” As a women’s health physiotherapist, one of the most effective tools I recommend is gentle scar tissue massage — once your body is ready.
Why Scar Massage Helps Heal a C-Section Scar
Your body naturally forms scar tissue as part of the healing process. Sometimes, that tissue can become tight or stuck to the layers underneath, leading to:
Pulling or tugging around your scar
Sensitivity or discomfort
Restriction through your tummy, hips or lower back
Pelvic floor symptoms or difficulty moving comfortably
Scar massage helps by:
Improving blood flow and circulation
Softening and mobilising scar tissue
Supporting tummy muscle and pelvic floor recovery
Reducing sensitivity and discomfort
When Is It Safe to Start Scar Massage?
Before beginning scar massage, ensure that:
The scab has fully come off and your incision is closed.
You have clearance from your physio, obstetrician, midwife or GP.
There are no signs of infection (redness, swelling, discharge, or increasing pain).
⚠️ Always listen to your body. Scar massage should never feel painful — start slow and gentle.
How to Massage a C-Section Scar Safely
Here are some techniques I share with my clients once they’re cleared to begin:
Gentle Touch – Place your fingertips lightly on and around the scar to help desensitise the area.
Skin Rolling – Pinch a small fold of skin near the scar, then gently lift and roll side to side.
Circular Massage – With a drop of nourishing oil, move your fingers in small circles across and around the scar.
Skin Stretching – Place two fingers on either side of the scar and gently move the skin apart, together, or diagonally.
Start with 2–3 minutes a day and increase as you feel comfortable.
Check out @bloomessentialswomen instagram for a complete video on scar tissue massage
Support Healing With the Right Products
The right products can make scar massage easier and more effective. I recommend the Bare Mum Skin & Scar Oil, specifically formulated to hydrate, soften, and support healing.
You can shop this oil individually, or as part of our C-Section Birth Recovery Box — curated with physio-approved, pregnancy-safe essentials designed to comfort, nourish, and support your healing journey after a caesarean.
Explore the Bare Mum Skin & Scar Oil or discover the complete C-Section Birth Recovery Box today.
Final Thoughts
Learning how to heal your C-section scar is an important step in postpartum recovery. With the right timing, gentle massage techniques, and supportive products, you can ease discomfort, restore movement, and feel confident in your body again.
The C-Section Birth Recovery Box