Postpartum & C-Section Scar Therapy

A scar is the connective tissue the body forms to close a caesarean incision, an episiotomy, or a perineal tear. This tissue is durable, but it is laid down in dense, less-organized layers that can adhere to the skin, muscle, and fascia beneath — a process known as adhesion. Scar tissue from caesarean, episiotomy, or perineal tear, including obstetric anal sphincter injuries (OASIS third- and fourth-degree tears), can restrict mobility and cause pain even after the surface has healed. Physiotherapy directed at the scar and surrounding tissue helps address these restrictions once healing is complete.

How scar tissue affects the tissue around it

When scar layers bind to the tissue underneath, the area can feel tight, numb, hypersensitive, or disconnected from surrounding movement. Scar mobilization applies graded, hands-on techniques to improve how the tissue glides and stretches. This is associated with reduced pulling and discomfort, decreased local sensitivity, and improved mobility of the region. Physiotherapy of this kind supports recovery alongside the care provided by your physician and does not replace their assessment of the incision.

The overhang, altered sensation, and pulling above a C-section scar

A firm ridge is often noticeable above a caesarean scar, where the skin appears tethered to the deeper layers. This tethering is frequently scar-related rather than residual tissue volume, and it can accompany a band of altered sensation above the incision and a sensation of tugging with standing or reaching. Releasing these adhesions supports softening of the ridge, reduced numbness, and freer movement as the scar becomes more mobile.

Episiotomy and perineal scar therapy

Scars from vaginal birth respond to the same approach. A tight episiotomy or perineal scar can remain tender for months, and OASIS injuries may involve deeper structures that benefit from careful, staged treatment. Sitting, exercise, and intimacy can stay uncomfortable well after the surface appears healed. Targeted scar mobilization helps reduce sensitivity and restore comfortable movement, always progressed at a pace you direct.

When scar mobilization begins

Scar mobilization is commenced once the tissue has fully healed — typically several weeks or more after birth — and can still be effective on older scars. Your registered physiotherapist begins with a subjective history and a consent-based examination of the area, explains the findings in plain language, and proceeds only with your agreement. Treatment combines hands-on scar work with techniques you can continue at home, integrated into your wider postpartum pelvic-floor care.