Common, but not normal
Your caesarean was months, perhaps years, ago. But the scar still reminds you it is there: it pulls when you stretch, the skin around it is numb or overly sensitive, there is an overhang above it, clothes rub. You may also have pain low in your tummy, in your back or during sex, and never have connected it with the scar.
A caesarean is abdominal surgery through several layers: skin, fat, fascia, muscle and uterus. As they heal, these layers can become “stuck” together and lose their ability to glide. It is very common. But it is not something you have to accept as permanent.
What may be at the root
- Adhesions between layers. The internal scar can restrict how the surrounding tissues move — not just the skin you can see.
- Visceral mobility. The bladder and uterus sit right behind the scar; tension here may be linked to pelvic discomfort, urinary urgency or pain during sex.
- Sensitivity of skin nerves. Numbness or hypersensitivity are common and usually improve gradually.
- Abdominal wall and diastasis. The scar influences how your abdomen works and transfers load.
- Posture and breathing. To protect it, many women start curling around the scar, which overloads the back.
How we can help
Once the scar has closed with no signs of infection — and with your obstetrician’s go-ahead if it is recent — we assess the scar, the mobility of your abdomen and pelvis, breathing, posture and, where relevant and with your consent, the pelvic floor.
Visceral osteopathy gently works on the layers of the scar and the mobility of the organs behind it. Pelvic physiotherapy brings together abdomen, pelvic floor and breathing, and teaches you self-massage to do at home. Acupuncture may be a complement. Many women find their scar becomes softer and less sensitive, even when the caesarean was years ago.
What you can do now
- Touch your scar. Once it is fully closed, touch it gently with clean hands to desensitise the area — with a neutral cream if you like.
- Move the skin around it, with slow movements up, down and sideways, without pain.
- Breathe into your belly, letting your abdomen expand gently; it helps the tissues find movement again.
If this sounds like you, get in touch. Your scar is part of your story too.