Whether your Cesarean delivery was planned or unplanned, it’s important to remember that a C-section is major abdominal surgery, and recovery can look different for everyone. One concern many women have is pelvic pain after a C-section. Is it normal? How long should it last? And when is it time to seek help?
At Cherokee Women’s Health, we help guide women through every stage of postpartum healing, including what to expect physically and how to know when something doesn’t feel quite right.
Is Pelvic Pain Normal After a C-Section?
Yes. Some pelvic pain after a Cesarean delivery is common, especially in the first few weeks after birth. As your body begins to heal, it’s normal to feel:
- Soreness or tightness near the incision
- Uterine cramping, also called “afterpains”
- Deep aching in the lower abdomen or pelvic floor
- Sensitivity from internal sutures
Even though you didn’t deliver vaginally, your body still carried the weight of pregnancy, which affects your entire pelvic region.
How Long Does the Pain Last?
Most women feel significantly better within 6 to 8 weeks postpartum. However, for some, pelvic pain can persist longer, especially if there is scar tissue, nerve irritation, or pelvic floor dysfunction involved. The important thing to remember is that healing isn’t one-size-fits-all.
What Causes Pelvic Pain After a C-Section?
There are several reasons women may experience pelvic pain after a C-section, including:
- Surgical Healing – Your incision and the surrounding tissues need time to heal, which can lead to soreness and tightness.
- Nerve Sensitivity – Nerves that were affected during the procedure may cause lingering pain or tingling sensations.
- Pelvic Floor Dysfunction – Even without a vaginal birth, the pelvic floor muscles may have weakened or become tight from carrying the baby during pregnancy.
- Adhesions or Scar Tissue – Internal scarring can cause tissues and organs to stick together, sometimes resulting in discomfort or pain during movement.
When Should I Be Concerned?
Mild pain is common during the early weeks, but if it worsens or continues long after delivery, it may be a sign that something more is going on. Contact us if you experience:
- Sharp or increasing pain that doesn’t improve
- Pain during sex
- Discomfort while using the bathroom
- A heavy or bulging feeling in your pelvic area
- Pain that starts or returns weeks or months later
These symptoms could indicate a more serious concern such as nerve damage, pelvic floor dysfunction, or internal adhesions, which can all be treated with the right care.
Treatment Options for Lasting Pelvic Pain
At Cherokee Women’s Health, we take pelvic pain seriously. Our specialists are experienced in advanced pelvic care and can offer several treatment options based on your unique symptoms.
We may recommend pelvic floor therapy, which gently strengthens or relaxes the muscles to reduce pain and improve function. In more complex cases, we also offer pelvic and vaginal rejuvenation procedures performed by our board-certified urogynecologists to restore comfort and quality of life. In every case, our approach is compassionate and comprehensive, because you deserve to feel like yourself again.
You Don’t Have to Live With Pain
Postpartum recovery isn’t just about healing from birth; it’s about reclaiming your health and well-being. If you’re dealing with pelvic pain after a C-section, don’t wait to get the help you need. Relief is possible, and support is here.
Call us today at 770-720-7733 or book an appointment online to speak with one of our pelvic health specialists.
