Vaginal Tearing, Episiotomies, and C-section Scars: What You Need to Know
Written by a pelvic floor physical therapist at Empower Your Pelvis, in Kansas City, Missouri (Lee Summit, MO and Overland Park, KS)
If you’ve experienced vaginal tearing, an episiotomy, or a C-section, you likely have some scar tissue in your pelvic region or lower abdomen. But here’s the good news: with proper care, you can improve the mobility of this tissue, which is essential for your long-term recovery and comfort.
Scar Tissue Needs Movement!
Scars, whether they’re from childbirth or other injuries, need space, blood flow, and movement to heal properly. After 6-8 weeks (or when your healthcare provider gives you the green light), it’s time to start working on your scar tissue. Why? Because, just like other scars on your body, creating mobility in the tissue helps it function more like normal, happy, flexible skin.
If the tissue is tight or restricted, you might experience discomfort or even pain. Don’t worry; gently touching and mobilizing the area can make a big difference. To learn more, check out the video below.
Before You Get the All-Clear from Your Doctor: Desensitizing Techniques
If you’re still waiting for your 6-8 week check-up with your OB-GYN or midwife, you can start by gently touching the tissue around your scar. Here’s how to get started:
For C-Section Scars:
Focus on the area between your belly button and the scar.
Try gentle “stroking” or “petting” motions up and down, side to side, and in circles (both clockwise and counterclockwise).
These movements help increase blood flow and desensitize the tissue, easing any tenderness.
For Vaginal Tears or Episiotomies:
Begin by gently petting the skin from your inner thigh to your outer hip.
Working on the abdomen using the same petting technique can also be beneficial.
Experiment with different fabrics like a soft sheet, washcloth, or cotton ball along the tissue. This helps with desensitization and can reduce discomfort in the surrounding area. However, avoid directly touching the scar itself until your healthcare provider says it's safe to do so.
Once You’re Cleared: Scar Mobilization Techniques
When you’re officially cleared by your healthcare provider, it’s time to start working directly on the scar. Here’s how:
Gentle Touching: Use your hands to move the tissue up and down, side to side, and in circular motions (both directions).
Variety of Fabrics: Continue using different fabrics to touch the scar. This can help the tissue adapt to various sensations and promote healing.
Special Considerations for C-Section Scars
C-section scars can take years to heal fully, depending on factors like the size and depth of the wound and your genetics. So, remember: it’s never too late to work on your scar tissue! Even scars that are decades old can improve with the right techniques.
By mobilizing the scar tissue, many women find relief from symptoms like:
Pain during sex
Hip or lower back pain
Bladder urgency
Abdominal pain or constipation
Working on your scar tissue can also help you connect with your core and strengthen your lower abs, which is especially crucial if you’re struggling to engage those muscles post-delivery. For more tips and exercises, consider joining our C-section Recovery Group, where we cover scar tissue care, core connection, and the best exercises for C-section moms.
Why Scar Mobility Matters
C-section scars can contribute to conditions like diastasis recti, pelvic floor dysfunction, and lower back pain. They may also lead to abdominal cramping, bladder urgency, and bowel issues. The layers of tissue cut through during a C-section need both time to heal and the opportunity to regain mobility.
The Bottom Line: Scar mobility matters! Taking steps to keep your scar moving and gliding not only helps with immediate healing but also supports your future health and comfort. Start working on your scar when your doctor gives you the go-ahead, and keep prioritizing tissue mobility for the long run.
Get back to feeling your best by giving your scar the attention it deserves!
By optimizing your recovery and understanding scar care, you’re setting yourself up for improved comfort, mobility, and overall well-being.
Get Professional Help
If you're looking for “pelvic floor therapy near me”, consider scheduling a consultation at one of our locations in Kansas City-Overland Park, Kansas, or Lees Summit, Missouri. Click here to book your appointment.
Enroll in the C-Section Recovery Program
Ready to reclaim your postpartum wellness and address the hurdles of C-section recovery? Our C-Section Recovery Program delivers the complete guidance you need to restore strength, enhance healing, and truly thrive. Sign up now and take the first step toward feeling empowered and revitalized—mind, body, and spirit!
With wellness in your pelvis-
Amanda Fisher, PT, DPT
Owner, Empower Your Pelvis, a pelvic floor physical therapy clinic in Kansas City (Lee’s Summit, MO and Overland Park, KS)