C-section recovery - belly flap/pooch tenderness

jenb_99 · May 2014

It seems like I remember this from my first, but remind me... Is it pretty normal for the deflated hangy party of the belly to become sore and maybe even a little puffy? My incision itself looks flawless -- no unusual redness, oozing, or other signs of infection -- so I suspect the tenderness I'm feeling now is just a result of heavy flab (sexy, I know) hanging there without muscle support. This is reinforced by the fact that I feel slightly less discomfort if I wear my maternity belt.

Anybody else know what I'm talking about, or do I sound totally crazy? How do you ease the discomfort?

gypsymystic · May 2014

This can happen even for those who haven't had a section. I highly recommend belly wrapping to get some support, it will help with the tenderness and swelling.

jenb_99 · May 2014

@Azlebella‌ Seriously? I've never heard that. I thought it was something only chubby girls got after c-sections and I've felt pretty embarrassed about it.

So what causes it? Is it really just stress on poorly supported tissue? I'm hoping it eases up soon. I don't remember how long I was sore after DS.

sheriot · May 2014

No idea what causes it, but you're not crazy. And I don't think it is a "chubby girl" thing...just a cs pp thing

I wear the belt. That helps a lot. Like you, my incision is flawless and is healing perfectly (fx it continues). But I have the exact same thing. Delivered on 5/6 I expect to have it/feel it for a few more weeks, at the very least.

ETA. Don't be embarrassed. Your body just grew and then popped out a human. It has been through major surgery and needs time to heal, and then be given the chance to bounce back.

Jennyinheaven · May 2014

I had it, Im like 5 and half weeks pp (c section)and this is the first time starting maybe last weekend that I finally don't hurt, feel sore or see puffiness or bruising after a busy day physically.

gypsymystic · May 2014

I am not sure, but that area of the tummy shrinks fast after birth, so I think that has a lot to do with it. I had a pronounced 'pooch' with my first and lost 50 lbs, toned up to work it off. This time I used the belly bandit compression belt from day 3 and I can tell a huge difference. With both my pregnancies I gained around 50 lb, but I have always been a small girl. Also, never had a section, delivered both my sons vaginally.

jenb_99 · May 2014

Sorry for the late reply. It's been a crazy day.

Thanks for your responses, ladies. Nice to know it's normal and not necessarily a plus size or c-section thing. The nurse at my OB's office recommended looking for a support wrap at a medical supply store, so I think I'll do that tomorrow. Hopefully it helps. This is super painful.

@Azlebella @Jennyinheaven @sheriot

amberlowe08 · May 2014

I have the same thing!!! My belly isn't really too flabby though. (It's certainly not where it used to be either). Right below my belly button though the skin is very tender and sore. I was wondering what it could be from. It feels more tender on the skin, not like it's an internal thing. Curious to know what causes it.

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