A caesarean section is major abdominal surgery.

Recovery takes longer than after a vaginal birth. Be kind to yourself, and accept every offer of help. If you have concerns about your wound or recovery, contact your midwife or GP. Read more about our approach.

C-section recovery: what to expect after a caesarean

What is a caesarean section?

A caesarean (also called a C-section or CS) is a surgical procedure where your baby is delivered through a cut in your abdomen and uterus, rather than through the vagina.

Around 1 in 4 births in the UK are by caesarean. Some are planned (elective), others are emergencies. Recovery is broadly similar for both, though an emergency caesarean after a long labour can mean more tiredness in the early days. This page pairs with our guides on breastfeeding after a caesarean, the wider postnatal recovery guide, and blood clot prevention after surgery.

The first 24 hours in hospital

  • You will be moved from theatre to a recovery area, then a postnatal ward.
  • A catheter will remain in your bladder for at least 12 hours while the anaesthetic wears off.
  • Your wound will be covered with a dressing.
  • You will be given regular painkillers — take them on schedule rather than waiting for pain to build.
  • You will be encouraged out of bed and moving within 24 hours.
  • You can eat and drink as soon as you feel ready.
  • You can hold and breastfeed your baby. Ask for help with positioning so there is no pressure on your wound.

A rolled blanket or pillow under the baby when feeding reduces pressure on the incision. The catheter is usually removed after 12 to 24 hours.

Going home: day 1 to 2

Most women go home 1 to 2 days after a caesarean if there are no complications. Before discharge you should receive:

  • Advice on wound care
  • A prescription or supply of pain relief (paracetamol and ibuprofen alternated is the usual recommendation; not codeine unless prescribed, especially if breastfeeding)
  • Information on blood clot prevention
  • Compression stockings and low-molecular-weight heparin (blood-thinning injections) for up to 10 days if you are at higher clot risk

You will need someone to drive you home and stay with you for the first few days. You cannot drive yourself.

Week-by-week recovery timeline

Tap a stage to expand the details.

  • Pain and discomfort are normal and expected.
  • Take painkillers regularly as prescribed, rather than waiting for pain to build.
  • Move gently — short walks around the house help prevent blood clots and aid recovery.
  • Keep the wound clean and dry. Pat dry after bathing and do not submerge it.
  • Vaginal bleeding (lochia) may last 4 to 6 weeks.
  • Do not lift anything heavier than your baby.
  • Sleep when baby sleeps, and accept all offers of help.
  • Non-dissolvable stitches or staples are removed by your community midwife at 5 to 7 days.

Caring for your wound

Daily care

  • Wash the wound gently with warm water and mild soap.
  • Pat dry thoroughly — do not rub.
  • Let air reach the wound where practical.
  • Wear loose cotton high-waisted underwear that sits above the wound, not across it.

Scar massage (from 6-8 weeks)

Once the wound is fully closed and dry (no scabs), gently massage the scar with clean fingers for 5 minutes daily. This can prevent internal adhesions and reduce tightness.

  • Move the scar horizontally, vertically and in small circles.
  • Use a plain oil (coconut, vitamin E or pure aloe vera).

Pain management

Recommended: paracetamol 1g every 4 to 6 hours (maximum 4g per day) and ibuprofen 400mg every 6 to 8 hours, alternated, gives good pain control for most people.

Not recommended while breastfeeding: codeine-containing painkillers (e.g. co-codamol) unless specifically prescribed and monitored.

Ask for adequate pain relief in hospital. Do not suffer in silence.

Caesarean scar and body image

Your scar will typically be a horizontal line 10 to 20cm long, just above the pubic hairline (often called a “bikini line” scar). It will be quite visible at first: pink, raised and sometimes numb or itchy.

Over time, usually 1 to 2 years, most scars fade significantly to a thin pale line, often hidden in the pubic hair.

It is normal to feel a mix of emotions about your scar. Some people feel proud of it, others feel distressed by it, and both responses are valid. If you are struggling with your feelings about your caesarean or your scar, talk to your health visitor or GP, and see our mental health support guide.

Future pregnancies after caesarean

Having one caesarean does not automatically mean future babies must be born by caesarean.

VBAC (vaginal birth after caesarean). Most women who have had one uncomplicated caesarean can safely attempt a vaginal birth next time, with appropriate monitoring. Success rates are around 72 to 75%.

Scar rupture. There is a small risk of uterine scar rupture (around 1 in 200 for planned VBAC). Your care team will discuss this with you.

Elective repeat caesarean.You can also choose a repeat caesarean next time if that is your preference. Discuss your options at your booking appointment in your next pregnancy. The RCOG patient information leaflet “Birth after previous caesarean” has detailed guidance.

Related guides and tools

Full postnatal recovery guide→ Planning your birth preferences→ Understanding the stages of labour→ Mental health support after birth→

A note from our team

This guide reflects NHS UK, NICE and RCOG guidance on caesarean recovery. Your obstetric team and GP are the best source of personalised advice. Read more about us.

Frequently asked questions

When can I drive after a caesarean?
Usually from around 6 weeks, as long as you can perform an emergency stop comfortably and without pain. Check with your GP at the 6-week postnatal check, and let your car insurance company know your situation to make sure you are covered. Some insurers require a fit-to-drive note from a GP.
When can I exercise after a caesarean?
Gentle walking and pelvic floor exercises can start from a few days after birth. From 6 weeks, gentle gym and low-impact exercise usually begin. Running and high-impact exercise should wait until at least 12 weeks and ideally until a women's health physiotherapist has reviewed your core and pelvic floor.
How long does caesarean pain last?
Wound soreness and abdominal discomfort typically peak in the first week and ease over the following 2 to 3 weeks. Many women still feel twinges or pulling around the scar for 6 to 12 weeks. Lasting nerve-type sensations (numbness, tingling) can persist longer. If pain worsens rather than improves, contact your midwife or GP.
Can I breastfeed after a caesarean?
Yes. You can breastfeed from the first hour, often during skin-to-skin in theatre or recovery. Ask for help with positioning to protect your wound. The “rugby ball” hold and side-lying feeds both keep pressure off the incision. Most painkillers used after a caesarean are compatible with breastfeeding (usually paracetamol and ibuprofen), but check with your midwife about any opioid prescriptions.
Is it normal for my scar to feel numb or itchy?
Yes, both are very common. Some numbness or altered sensation around the scar can last months or even years because nerves take time to regrow. Itching during healing is normal. If the scar becomes increasingly red, painful, hot or discharges fluid, it may be infected and you should contact your midwife or GP.
When can I have sex after a caesarean?
When you feel ready and comfortable, usually from 6 weeks onwards. There is no medical rule, but most people need at least that long to recover physically and emotionally. Use contraception from day 21 onwards if you are not planning another pregnancy immediately, as ovulation can return quickly.
Can I have a normal birth after a caesarean?
In most cases, yes. A vaginal birth after caesarean (VBAC) has a success rate of around 72 to 75%. There is a small risk of uterine scar rupture (around 1 in 200 for planned VBAC), which will be discussed with your team. You can also choose an elective repeat caesarean. Discuss your options at your booking appointment in any future pregnancy.