Medically reviewed by M. Thurairaj, Registered physiotherapist. · Last reviewed June 2026.
Recovery takes time
Healing from a caesarean takes weeks, and the body needs time even as you care for a newborn. Your maternity team will guide you on activity, lifting, wound care and what to watch for. It is important to follow their advice, rest when you can, and not rush back to normal activity. Asking for help with lifting and daily tasks during this time is sensible, not a weakness.
Common aches afterwards
Beyond the surgical site, new mothers often develop a tight neck, shoulders and back from feeding, carrying and broken sleep, the same everyday parent aches anyone gets. These are muscular and common. The abdominal area and scar, however, need to heal fully and are managed by your medical team, not something to work on without their clearance.
Where massage may fit later
Once you have been checked and cleared at your postnatal appointment, a gentle massage focused on the tired neck, shoulders and back, away from the healing abdomen, may help ease the everyday parent aches. We always wait for that clearance, ask about the birth, and keep well away from the surgical area unless and until your doctor specifically advises it is appropriate. Your safety comes first.
Key takeaways
- A C-section is major surgery and recovery takes time
- Follow your medical team on activity, lifting and wound care
- Everyday parent aches in the neck and back are common
- Massage waits for postnatal clearance and avoids the scar
Frequently asked questions
When can I have a massage after a C-section?
After you have been checked and cleared at your postnatal appointment. Even then we keep away from the healing abdomen and work gently on the neck, shoulders and back.
Why is C-section recovery so tiring?
It is major surgery as well as birth, and you are healing while caring for a newborn on broken sleep. Patience, rest and following your medical team advice all matter.