How to Massage Your C-Section Scar: 4 Simple Techniques
If you have had a caesarean birth, you might notice that your scar feels tight, tender, numb or different from the surrounding skin. Once it has completely healed, gentle C-section scar massage can be a helpful part of your postpartum recovery.
Scar massage does not need to be complicated or painful. In this guide, I’ll explain when you can begin and take you through four simple techniques you can try at home.
When can I start C-section scar massage?
You can usually begin gentle scar massage from around six weeks postpartum, but timing is individual. Before starting, your incision should be fully closed and healed, with no scabs, open areas, weeping or signs of infection.
If you are unsure whether your scar is ready, check with your GP, obstetrician or pelvic health physiotherapist first. You may initially feel more comfortable working on the skin above and below the scar before progressing to massage directly over it.
Scar massage should not be painful. Start with light pressure and gradually increase it as the area becomes more comfortable.
Is it too late to massage an old C-section scar?
No. C-section scar massage can also be performed on older, fully healed scars. It is not only for the early postpartum months.
Even if your caesarean was years ago, you can gently explore how the skin and tissue around your scar move. If the scar is persistently painful, very sensitive or affecting your movement, it is worth seeing a pelvic health physiotherapist for an individual assessment.
How to prepare for C-section scar massage
Find a comfortable position where your abdominal muscles can relax. You might lie on your back with your knees supported, recline with pillows or sit comfortably. I personally prefer to massage standing in the shower, or just afterwards whilst standing and using one of the below products.
Make sure your hands and the scar area are clean. You can massage over dry skin or use a small amount of cream or oil to help your fingers glide, depending on the technique and what feels most comfortable.
My favourite products for C-section scar massage include Nokori, Yung Bod and Pure Mama.
Four C-section scar massage techniques
1. Long sweeping movements below the scar
Place your fingers on the lower abdomen, below your scar. Use long, gentle sweeping movements across the area.
This can be a comfortable place to begin if the scar itself still feels sensitive or if you are not ready to touch it directly.
2. Move the skin from side to side
Place one finger above the scar and another below it. Gently move or drag the skin from left to right, working along the length of the scar.
Notice whether some areas move more easily than others, but do not force movement or push through pain.
3. Try a zig-zag movement
Place your fingers on the fully healed scar. Gently move the skin in a small zig-zag pattern as you work from one end of the scar to the other.
Keep the movement slow and controlled, adjusting your pressure to what feels comfortable.
4. Move the scar up and down
With your fingers resting on the scar, gently move the skin upwards and downwards. Repeat along the length of the scar.
You may notice that the movement feels different in different sections. This is common, particularly when you are first starting.
What should C-section scar massage feel like?
It is common for a caesarean scar to feel numb, tender, sensitive, itchy or tight. During massage, you may notice gentle pulling or stretching, but it should remain tolerable and should not cause pain.
Begin with light pressure and short sessions. You can gradually build up the pressure and duration as the area becomes more comfortable. There is no benefit in aggressively pushing through pain.
Stop and seek advice if you notice increasing pain, redness, heat, swelling, discharge, bleeding, the wound opening or if you feel unwell.
How often should I massage my C-section scar?
Consistency is more useful than trying to do a long or intense session. Start with 1-2 minutes per massage technique and see how the area responds. You might practise a few techniques several times per week, or incorporate them into your usual skincare routine.
There is no single schedule that suits everyone. I would recommend doing for at least 3 months, but you can do for longer. I have continued to massage my scar daily at 9 months postpartum.
When should I see a pelvic health physiotherapist?
You can see a pelvic health physiotherapist at any stage of your C-section recovery. We can assess your scar, demonstrate massage techniques and help you feel confident performing them at home.
If needed, we may also use other treatment options, such as hands-on scar mobilisation, dry needling or cupping, depending on your individual assessment, symptoms and stage of healing.
We can assess your scar alongside your abdominal wall, breathing, pelvic floor and return to movement or exercise. If we notice changes that require further medical assessment, we can also recommend when to return to your GP for a referral to a dermatologist or another appropriate specialist.
C-section recovery involves much more than how your scar looks. Support should be tailored to how your body feels and functions.
The key takeaway
C-section scar massage can usually begin from around six weeks postpartum once the incision is completely healed. Start gently, work around the scar before moving directly onto it if needed, and remember that it is not too late to begin with an older scar.
Try the four techniques in my instagram carousel and save it so you can follow along during your next massage.
For more guided support after birth, explore the Early Postpartum Program inside MOVE with The Mama Physio, designed for the first six weeks after both vaginal and caesarean birth.
This information is general and does not replace individual medical advice. If you have concerns about your wound or recovery, speak with your healthcare provider.