C Section Pouch symptoms & causes

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Treatments

Conditions

The symptoms

A bulge above your C-section scar

A protruding abdomen

Excess skin that protrudes even more when sitting or when bending over

Tight or thick feeling of skin around the scar

Feeling insecure in tight clothes because of your lower belly’s shape

When to see a doctor?

Consultation Is The Key

When should you be worried?

There is no reason to rush to the doctor just because you have noticed a C Section pouch. But if your pouch is causing you emotional or physical discomfort, it is definitely worth a chat with a specialist. At our clinic in London we will provide you with a private consultation to discuss the C Section pouch removal that suits you.

Advised treatments

Abdominoplasty

Skin Treatment

Liposuction

Skin Treatment

Mummy-makeover

Skin Treatment

The causes

What causes a c section pouch?

There can be several factors that contribute to a mummy pouch:

Pregnancy pressure: The growing baby pushes on your tummy resulting in intra abdominal pressure, stretching stomach muscles and formation of apron belly, which can make a bulge, especially following a C-section.
Extra weight gain: Pregnancy encourages the abdominal muscles to stretch, and the skin to become padded, producing a pronounced pouch.
Genetics: Weakened core muscles or skin that does not snap back tightly, can make you more prone to a post-baby pouch.
Hormonal Changes: Hormones such as oestrogen relax tissues to help delivery, but they can also make it more difficult for your tummy to recover and tone.

The risk factors

Who is at higher risk of a c section pouch?

Depending on a number of factors, some women are at higher risk of getting a C-section pouch:

Multiple C-sections: Further pregnancies can create excess scar tissue and more separation of muscles.
Poor scar healing process: Your genetics, post-op care and presence of infection can all influence how well your scar heals.
Poor core muscles before or after pregnancy: If your core is less conditioned, it may have a harder time snapping back.
Age: As the years pass, the skin elasticity changes and loses its ability to recover.

The complications

Hidden Dangers

What happens if a C-section pouch is not treated?
A C-section pouch is typically not a health risk, but it can play a role in how you feel about your body. It is more of a cosmetic thing for most, but it can also weaken your core strength, cause skin irritation, and make you self-conscious.

The prevention

Core Strength Routine

Can exercise really help with C Section scar overhang?

It can! Soft core workouts before and after baby keep your tummy muscles strong and supported. A strong core provides added resilience to your belly after a baby. It is all about moderation, and with the right doctor’s approval.

Exercises to try

With easy exercises, such as deep belly breathing, pelvic tilts, and light core contractions. These are mild and safe in the first days. No crunches or planks in the beginning because they can do harm than help while things are healing.

Supportive Postpartum Wear

Does it really work?

Yes! Wearing a postpartum support belt can add some extra support to your incision wound and your lower back. It supports you so you feel more comfortable, keeps you in place and reduces swelling for those first few weeks. This helps the abdominal muscles to knit back together, encourages good posture and prompts the pelvic floor muscle awareness.

How long should you wear one?

Begin with a few hours a day and see how it feels for your body. The majority of mums will find themselves in them for somewhere around 6 to 8 weeks. Make sure it is snug, not tight and always consult with your doctor before you use one.

Healthy Eating Habits

Does it affect the C-section pouch?

Definitely. Eating a healthy, balanced diet can help your body heal and stop extra fat forming around your tummy. Load up on fruits, veggies, lean proteins, and whole grains to stay energized between meals and keep your belly happy and have a healthy lifestyle.

Foods to avoid

Try to reduce sugary snacks and processed foods, they can create bloat and make the pouch look more prominent. When you can, keep things simple, whole and fresh.

Ease Into Motion

Can I walk around after my C-section?

Yes and it is a good thing, actually. Some short walks can do your body good once your doctor says it is ok. Gentle movement helps keep your blood circulating and may reduce swelling of your belly.

Safe movement postpartum

Even just walking around the house is a good place to start. Do not take it too seriously, and listen to your body. Avoid anything that feels like a workout, no heavy lifting, running or core exercise routine until your body is ready.

Massage And Scar Care

Will massaging my scar help with the C Section overhang?

Yes! Once your scar is completely healed, scar massage can help soften up the tissue again and may also help reduce that little pouch, excess scar and muscle restriction some mums experience. It can improve circulation, which can also help everything sit more smoothly.

Do it safely

Apply a little oil or lotion that contains Vitamin A which can improve skin elasticity and it increases blood flow to the area. Use clean hands to rub in a circular motion around, not on, the scar at first. You can start massaging on the scar as soon as 6 to 8 weeks later, but only if your doctor says it is okay.