Days 0–14
Keep incision clean and dry; pat — don't rub. Watch for redness spreading, pus, fever > 100.4°F, or foul smell.
Use a pillow to splint when coughing, laughing, or getting up.
Walk gently every few hours to reduce clot risk, but no lifting heavier than your baby.
Stool softeners and 8+ glasses of water — straining is painful and risky.
Weeks 2–6
No driving until off narcotics and you can brake hard without pain.
No baths, sex, or tampons until cleared (usually 6 weeks).
Scar massage at 6 weeks once fully closed prevents adhesions.
Long-term
Ask for a referral to pelvic floor PT — c-section moms need it too.
Numbness near the scar is normal and may persist for a year or more.