C-Section Prehab and Post-Op Rehab

Although cesarean sections (c-sections) are the most commonly performed surgery in Canada, many women are still unsure about what actually happens during the procedure, how to prepare for it, and how to recover optimally afterward. Read on to learn what you can do before and after your c-section to support a smooth recovery.

C-Section Procedure

A cesarean section, or c-section, is a surgical procedure where a baby is delivered through an incision made in the mother’s abdomen and uterus.

The decision to perform a c-section depends on several factors such as the baby’s position, number of babies, your medical history, and the stage of your pregnancy. Because c-sections are inpatient procedures, you can expect to stay in the hospital for about 2–3 days. The surgery itself is performed by an obstetrician.

During the operation, an incision is made—typically horizontally—across the lower abdomen. The abdominal muscles are separated (not cut), the bladder is moved out of the way, and a second incision is made in the uterus to deliver the baby, followed by the placenta.

It’s important to note that c-sections do not completely “spare the pelvis.” Even without a vaginal delivery, your pelvic floor is still affected by the changes that occur during pregnancy, such as hormonal shifts and altered muscle activity. As a result, pelvic health symptoms like urinary urgency, leakage, constipation, or pain with intercourse can still occur after a c-section.

See the link below for a demonstration of what this looks like:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=utCS5rzNkfU

Prehab

Prehab (prehabilitation) is therapy done before surgery to help prepare your body for recovery and reduce the risk of complications.

If your c-section is planned, consider booking a pelvic floor physiotherapy appointment 2–6 weeks before your surgery. At Ottawa Pelvic Health, we’ll help you understand what to expect and how to prepare physically. During your prehab visit, you can expect:

• A thorough review of your pregnancy, previous deliveries, and birth plan

• Education about the c-section procedure and preparation strategies

• Guidance on post-op care, recovery equipment, wound care, and gentle early exercises

• A physical assessment of your pelvic floor and core strength

• Customized exercises to support your body before and after delivery

• Being proactive before surgery can help ensure a smoother, faster recovery.

Post-Op Recovery and Rehabilitation

After surgery, many new moms are told simply, “Don’t lift anything heavier than your baby for six weeks.” But what does that mean in real life? Pelvic physiotherapy can help guide you through these early weeks and ensure you’re healing safely and confidently.

Telehealth

At Ottawa Pelvic Health, your first postpartum session can be done either virtually or in person:

Telehealth Appointments

Telehealth allows us to provide virtual support during the first 1–4 weeks postpartum via secure video sessions. This is a great way to receive personalized care, recovery advice, and check-ins without leaving home.

In-Person Appointments

Your first in-person pelvic health visit is usually recommended around 6 weeks postpartum. During this appointment, your physiotherapist will assess healing and guide you through early recovery exercises.

Our approach at Ottawa Pelvic Health is personalized—each woman’s health history and goals are unique. Depending on your needs, treatment may include:

• Education about your symptoms and recovery plan

• Bladder and bowel retraining

• Support for sexual health and comfort

• Myofascial and scar tissue manual therapy

• Pelvic floor muscle relaxation, retraining, or strengthening

• Deep core and abdominal muscle reactivation

• Posture and breathing strategies

• Guidance on safe exercise and activity return

• Cesarean scar desensitization and care techniques

• Recommendations for supportive products (e.g., abdominal binders, scar sheets)

• Tips for comfortable baby feeding positions

Get in Touch

If you have questions about pelvic health physiotherapy and post-c-section recovery, we’d love to help. Book a free 15-minute phone consultation with one of our Pelvic Health Physiotherapists today.