C-section scar therapy · Dublin
Your C-section scar, cared for
Gentle hands-on treatment for caesarean scars that feel tight, numb, itchy or sore, whether your baby is three months or thirty years old.
40.6%
of babies in Ireland were born by caesarean in 2024. You're far from alone.
HSE Irish Maternity Indicator System, 2024
Up to 1 in 4
women develop adhesions (layers that stick together) after one C-section, rising to more than half after three or more.
Cited in González-Muñoz & Navarro-Ledesma, Biomedicines, 2025
What mums tell me they notice
Numb skin above the scar that never quite came back
A "shelf" or overhang, with the scar tucked in underneath
Pulling when standing tall, lifting the baby or the car seat
Itching, burning or a sharp twinge along the scar
Discomfort low in the tummy, back or pelvis
Feeling disconnected from your tummy, or not wanting to touch it
These are common, and they're not something you just have to put up with. Scar therapy aims to soften the scar, help the layers underneath move again and bring back comfortable feeling.
When can I start?
Once your wound has fully closed, with no scabs, weeping or signs of infection, and your GP, midwife or consultant is happy. For most mums that's from around 6 to 8 weeks.
Earlier is ideal, because your scar is still remodelling for up to two years. But it's never too late: scars from 10, 20 or 30 years ago can still become softer and more comfortable.
Pregnant again? I don't treat the tummy during pregnancy. Come and see me after your baby arrives.
Your C-section session
Your story first
Your birth, your recovery, and how your scar feels now. Planned or emergency, first or fourth: it all matters.
Gentle assessment
I'll feel how the scar and the tissue around it move, and map any numb, tight or sensitive areas.
Hands-on treatment
Light scar massage and fascial release, with gentle suction (cupping) and supportive taping where they suit. Never forced.
Home care
A few minutes a day of self-massage, plus moisturising and silicone if you need it.
The research, plainly
One 15-minute session of gentle suction improved C-section scar elasticity in 30 women, with no side effects.
González-Muñoz & Navarro-Ledesma, Biomedicines, 2025 (no comparison group)
A review of nine studies found early evidence that soft-tissue mobilisation eases symptoms linked to tummy adhesions after surgery.
Wasserman et al., Journal of Bodywork and Movement Therapies, 2019
Promising, but early. Studies are small, so I'll give you an honest view of what to expect after your first session.
Caring for your scar at home
Moisturise
Once every scab has gone, a plain cream, oil or gel two to three times a day.
Massage gently
Three to five minutes, twice a day, once your skin is ready. It should never hurt.
Protect from sun
High SPF on any exposed scar until it's fully mature, which can take up to two years.
Raised or widening?
Start silicone sheets or gel early and keep going for months. Ask me which.
See your GP first if…
- your scar is red, hot, swollen, weeping or smells
- it's opening, or you have a fever or feel unwell
- you find a new lump, or pain that's getting worse
- you have pain around your scar that comes with your period
C-section questions
Will it get rid of my overhang?
It won't remove skin or fat. When a scar is stuck down, though, it can make the overhang more pronounced. Many mums find that once the scar softens and moves more freely, the area looks and feels different. I'll be honest about what I think is realistic for you.
Does it hurt?
It shouldn't. The touch is gentle and you decide the pressure. Some people feel a brief, sharp twinge in numb areas as feeling starts to come back; it passes quickly.
How many sessions will I need?
Some mums notice a change after one session; most benefit from a short course. We'll review together after a few sessions.
My C-section was years ago. Is it worth it?
Yes. Older scars can still respond, especially if they pull, feel numb or ache. It's one of the most common reasons people come to see me.
Take the first step
Book a C-section session, or message me first if you'd like to chat it through.