How Long Does It Take for a C-Section Wound to Heal Completely?
Reader asks "I just delivered via c-section. How long would it take for the wound to heal completely, especially for the wound inside? When can I start exercising?"
The skin usually heals in about 5 to 10 days time. While the muscle layers along the abdominal wall takes about 4 to 6 weeks to heal. On the deeper layer, the muscle of the womb, would take about 12 weeks to heal completely. With regards to when can you start exercising, probably about 2-3 weeks after the c-section. If you feel well, you can start to exercise without much exertion so a good exercise to start off with is things like brisk walking, swimming, or light weights.
You can slowly pace yourself and increase intensity to your comfort level. Usually, exercises that involve your core muscles, example, sit ups, things like that, should be delayed for about 8 weeks to 12 weeks after the surgery. This is to allow the muscles to heal nicely before you put any undue pressure on it.
Answered by Dr Beh Suan Tiong
Dr Beh Suan Tiong is a Consultant Obstetrician and Gynaecologist in Thomson Medical Centre. He is also accredited by the Members of Royal College of Obstetricians & Gynaecologists (M.R.C.O.G) in the United Kingdom.