If you’d told me before I became a mum that I’d have not one, but two C-sections, I’d have laughed and said, “That won’t be me!” But life had other plans—and let me tell you, it taught me a thing or two along the way.

My first C-section? An emergency. My second? Elective. Two very different experiences, but both left their marks on me—physically and emotionally. The first taught me hard lessons about what not to do when recovering from abdominal birth, while the second showed me just how empowering it can be to take control of your recovery.

If you’re reading this and about to face your own C-section journey, I’m here to tell you: don’t make the same mistakes I did the first time around. Recovery can be better, easier, and way less painful. 

What Went Wrong With My First C-Section

Here’s the thing about having your first C-section: nobody really prepares you for the recovery. Sure, they hand you a sheet of instructions and say, “Take it easy, rest when you can,” but beyond that? Nothing...

I followed that vague advice to a T—which is to say, I did absolutely nothing to help myself heal. No steps to prevent infection, no scar care, no thought to how my body would recover or reconnect after being sliced open. Scar massage? Never heard of it. Preventing the dreaded "C-section pouch"? Didn’t even know it was a thing!

And the result? I healed terribly.

• My scar was red, raised, and angry.
• Beneath the surface, it felt like someone had buried marbles under my skin (hello, adhesions!).
• I was constantly in pain—bending to pick up my baby, reaching for a glass, even sitting to breastfeed hurt. Intimacy? Forget it.

When I finally plucked up the courage to see my GP, I was told this was just "what happens" after a C-section. “Get on with it,” they said. Seriously? That’s the best advice they had?

How I Took Back Control With My Second C-Section

By the time I was pregnant with my second child, I was not about to let history repeat itself. When the doctors recommended an elective C-section, I knew I needed a plan.

This time, I dove into research, asked questions, and spoke to experts (yes, even plastic surgeons and dermatologists—desperate times, right?). I refused to let my recovery be an afterthought.

What I found was life-changing. Armed with knowledge and a clear plan, I went into my second C-section feeling confident and prepared.

My Three-Step Recovery Plan

This plan changed everything. It’s now the foundation of my approach to recovery, and if you’re staring down the C-section road, here’s what I’d recommend:

1. Support Your Body Early

From day one, I made sure my incision was protected and my abdomen supported. I used a postpartum compression garment (and trust me, not all are created equal—do your homework!). It made moving around so much easier and helped reduce swelling.

2. Care for Your Scar (Yes, Really!)

If you’re squeamish about touching your scar, I get it—I was too. But scar massage is an absolute game-changer. Once I was ready (and after checking with my doctor), I started gently massaging my scar to break down adhesions and improve healing.

Silicone scar sheets were another lifesaver. They not only reduced redness but also made my scar nearly invisible.

3. Rebuild Strength Slowly

I used to think postpartum recovery meant doing as little as possible, but boy, was I wrong. Movement is so important. I started small—gentle stretches, walking, and eventually core-strengthening exercises designed for postpartum mums.

The Results: Night and Day

The difference between my two recoveries was like night and day. After my second C-section:

• My scar healed beautifully—it’s now nearly invisible.
• No pouch, no overhang, no constant pain.
• I can bend, stretch, run after my kids (and the occasional ice cream van) without a second thought.

And the best part? I feel good in my body again. Do I have the same confidence I had before pregnancy? Maybe not entirely—let’s be real, mum life changes you in ways no one can prepare you for—but I’m miles ahead of where I was.

Lessons for Mums Facing a C-Section

If you’re about to have a C-section, here’s my biggest piece of advice: don’t leave your recovery to chance. Take control. Here’s where to start:

Protect Your Incision: A quality compression garment is worth its weight in gold.

Prioritize Scar Care: Don’t be afraid to get hands-on with your recovery—scar massage and silicone sheets work wonders.

Ease Into Movement: Find exercises tailored to postpartum recovery and take it slow.

Get Support: Whether it’s advice from specialists or just leaning on friends and family, don’t go it alone.

Can You Relate? Let’s Talk

Motherhood isn’t about perfection; it’s about resilience. And sometimes, that resilience starts with putting yourself first—healing, recovering, and finding your confidence again.

Remember, small, regular changes can make a big difference to your recovery. Whether it’s starting with a gentle scar massage, adding short walks into your day, or simply giving yourself permission to rest, these little steps add up. You don’t have to do it all at once—progress is progress.

Can you relate to my story?

 Have you faced challenges with C-section recovery, or found tips that worked wonders for you? 

I’d love to hear from you. 

Let’s share our stories and support one another—because no mum should have to figure this out on her own. 💛