Recovering from a C-section can take time — physically, emotionally, and mentally. It’s a major surgery that requires thoughtful aftercare. While rest, movement, and good nutrition are essential, one often-overlooked tool in postnatal healing is Manual Lymphatic Drainage (MLD) massage.
At Arco Healthcare Clinic in Widnes, we offer this gentle, effective therapy to help support women as they heal from C-section birth. Here’s how it works and why it may help you feel better, sooner.
What Is Lymphatic Drainage Massage?
Lymphatic drainage massage is a light, rhythmic treatment that stimulates the body’s lymphatic system — the network responsible for clearing waste, reducing inflammation, and supporting immune function.
After a C-section, it’s common to experience:
- Swelling around the incision and abdomen
- Fluid retention in the legs, feet, or hands
- Discomfort and reduced mobility
- Tightness or stiffness around scar tissue
- A general feeling of heaviness or sluggishness
MLD helps to reduce these symptoms naturally by gently encouraging fluid movement and tissue repair.
How Does It Support C-Section Recovery?
Lymphatic drainage massage can:
- Reduce post-surgical swelling and fluid retention
- Improve circulation and oxygen delivery to healing tissues
- Minimise scar tissue build-up over time
- Help ease discomfort or tightness around the abdomen
- Support emotional wellbeing by promoting relaxation
- Encourage a more balanced recovery process
It’s a non-invasive, calming treatment that works with your body’s natural healing rhythms — ideal for the sensitive postnatal period.
When Can You Start?
Every recovery is unique, and it’s important to wait until your doctor or midwife gives you the go-ahead — usually 2 to 6 weeks post-surgery, once your incision has closed and healed properly.
At Arco Healthcare Clinic, we’ll always begin with a consultation to ensure it’s the right time for treatment and tailor the session to your stage of recovery.
What Happens During a Session?
You’ll be made comfortable, usually lying on your back with support pillows as needed. Your therapist will use gentle hand movements to stimulate lymph flow — starting away from the incision site and gradually working toward the area around the abdomen and scar.
The technique is very light, never painful, and adapted to your level of comfort and mobility. Many women find the sessions calming and emotionally restorative as well as physically beneficial.
Long-Term Benefits
With regular sessions, lymphatic drainage may also help with:
- Scar mobility and appearance
- Reducing abdominal bloating
- Easing lower back tension
- Reconnecting with your body post-birth
- Improving sleep and mood through relaxation
While it’s not a substitute for medical care or physical therapy, it’s a valuable complement to your recovery journey.
Safe, Supportive, and Personalised Care
At Arco Healthcare Clinic in Widnes, our trained therapists are experienced in postnatal and post-surgical care. We take time to understand your concerns, answer your questions, and adapt your treatment with care and sensitivity.
Ready to Support Your Recovery?
If you’ve had a C-section and are looking for gentle, natural ways to reduce swelling, ease tension, and support healing, lymphatic drainage massage may help.
Contact Arco Healthcare Clinic today to learn more or book your initial consultation.
For further information regarding treatment contact our experienced reception team or alternatively book here for the next available appointment.
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