Comprehensive physiotherapy for scars after cesarean section and natural childbirth
Postpartum scar therapy is an advanced physiotherapy procedure that goes far beyond aesthetics. A scar, whether from a cesarean section, episiotomy, or tissue rupture, is a permanent intervention in the fascial, nervous, and muscular systems. If left untreated, it can disrupt pelvic floor function, cause pain, movement limitations, urogynecological problems, and chronic discomfort. At Ambasada Urody Clinic & Spa, postpartum scar therapy is conducted by qualified urogynecological physiotherapists, based on current clinical knowledge and practice in working with postpartum tissues.
WHAT DOES POSTPARTUM SCAR THERAPY INVOLVE?
Scar therapy is a process, not a one-time treatment. Its goal is to restore the physiological elasticity, mobility, and sensation of the tissues altered by the scar and the structures functionally associated with it. In practice, the therapy includes:
- a detailed assessment of the scar – its structure, mobility, tenderness, color, and the reaction of the deep tissues,
- functional diagnostics of the entire pelvic area, abdomen, and diaphragm,
- individually tailored manual techniques working on the surface and in depth,
- work with the fascia, nervous system, and muscular system,
- patient education and self-therapy instruction.
The therapeutic process is conducted in a safe, gradual manner, adapted to the postpartum stage or the time elapsed since childbirth. Therapy can be started both a few weeks after delivery and many years later – tissues respond to therapeutic stimuli regardless of the scar's age.
HOW DOES POSTPARTUM SCAR THERAPY WORK? - PHYSIOLOGICAL MECHANISMS
The effectiveness of postpartum scar therapy results from real processes occurring in the tissues, rather than from a superficial "massage" effect on the skin. During therapy, the following occurs:
- normalization of fascial tension, which often undergoes pathological reorganization after childbirth,
- improvement of microcirculation and oxygenation of the tissues in the scar area,
- stimulation of the sensory and autonomic nervous systems,
- restoration of glide between tissue layers,
- reduction of adhesions and restrictions affecting the function of the pelvic floor muscles and abdominal muscles.
As a result, the scar ceases to be a "block" in the body and begins to function as an integral part of the movement and posture system. This aspect is crucial for lasting improvement in well-being and function.
WHAT SCARS ARE COVERED BY POSTPARTUM THERAPY?
Postpartum scar therapy addresses all types of scars that occur during childbirth and perinatal interventions, including:
- cesarean section scars,
- episiotomy scars,
- perineal tear scars,
- internal and external stitching scars,
- scars complicated by adhesions or chronic pain.
It is worth emphasizing that even a "nice-looking" scar can cause significant functional disturbances. Visual assessment is not a reliable criterion for its impact on the body.
WHO IS POSTPARTUM SCAR THERAPY INTENDED FOR?
Therapy is recommended for women who want to consciously take care of their health after childbirth, regardless of how much time has passed since then.
It is particularly indicated for:
- after a cesarean section, even many years after the procedure,
- after a natural birth with an episiotomy or perineal tear,
- when experiencing pulling, numbness, or pain around the scar,
- in cases of urinary, gas, or stool incontinence,
- in the event of pelvic organ prolapse,
- during painful intercourse,
- when there is diastasis recti (separation of the abdominal muscles),
- for chronic lower back or pelvic pain,
- when experiencing issues with posture and trunk stabilization.
Therapy is not an "optional extra"—in a modern approach to postpartum women's health, it constitutes a standard of prevention and treatment.
EFFECTS OF POSTPARTUM SCAR THERAPY
The effects of therapy are both local and systemic. Their scope depends on the type of scar, the time since birth, and the individual tissue response.
The most commonly observed results are:
- improvement in the elasticity and softness of the scar,
- reduction of pain and hypersensitivity in the scar area,
- reduction of the feeling of pulling and "stiffness" in the abdomen or perineum,
- improvement in pelvic floor muscle function,
- reduction of urogynaecological complaints,
- improvement in trunk stabilization and deep muscle function,
- better body awareness and sensation,
- improvement in comfort in daily and intimate life.
Importantly, the effects of therapy increase with subsequent sessions and are reinforced by the patient's cooperation in the recommended self-therapy.
CONTRAINDICATIONS FOR POSTPARTUM SCAR THERAPY
Patient safety is paramount, which is why a qualification is always conducted before starting therapy.
The main contraindications include:
- an incompletely healed wound,
- active inflammatory conditions,
- skin and soft tissue infections,
- bleeding of unknown cause,
- cancers in the active phase,
- lack of doctor’s consent during the early postpartum period after complications.
Each case is assessed individually, taking into account the patient's health condition and medical documentation.
POST-OPERATIVE RECOMMENDATIONS
To achieve lasting and predictable effects from therapy, it is essential to follow the physiotherapist's recommendations.
After therapy, it is advised to:
- perform individually tailored exercises and self-therapy techniques,
- avoid overexertion in the first days after the session,
- monitor the body's reactions and report any concerning symptoms,
- maintain regularity of visits according to the established therapeutic plan.
Scar therapy is a partnership process – the best results are achieved with the patient's conscious involvement.
HOLISTIC THERAPEUTIC APPROACH
In working with postpartum scars, we use a comprehensive approach that considers the interconnections between the scar, fascial system, pelvic floor muscles, diaphragm, and body posture. The scar is treated as part of a larger functional system rather than an isolated change in the skin.
Therapy can be a standalone procedure or part of an individually planned urogynaecological physiotherapy program, which includes:
- manual therapy of the scar and adjacent tissues,
- work with pelvic floor muscles,
- normalization of tensions within the abdomen and diaphragm,
- re-education of movement and postural patterns,
- preparation for a safe return to physical activity.
This approach allows for achieving lasting therapeutic effects, improving function and patient comfort, and reducing the risk of entrenched compensatory disorders in the future.