How to reduce swelling after a C-section

After a caesarean, pregnancy-related fluid and fluids given during labour or surgery can leave the body through urine and sweating. Swelling is often noticed in the feet, ankles, hands or face and may change during the day. The incision area can also feel tight as tissues heal, but it should not be treated like general ankle swelling. A Caesarean Section recovery plan can clarify what is expected for your wound and mobility.

Take short, gentle walks as advised, change position regularly and rest with your legs raised on pillows. Avoid standing still for long periods and drink normally unless your clinician has given different advice. Wear loose clothing and keep the wound clean and dry according to your discharge instructions. Do not start compression garments, supplements or new medicines without checking first. Postnatal Physiotherapy can support safe movement and pelvic-floor recovery when your maternity team recommends it.

Contact urgent maternity or emergency services for sudden breathlessness, chest pain, coughing blood, faintness, or swelling and pain mainly in one leg. Seek prompt review for severe headache, vision changes, sudden swelling of the face or hands, upper-abdominal pain, high blood pressure, fever, worsening wound redness, pus or heavy bleeding. These symptoms can signal a complication, including Pre-eclampsia, infection or a blood clot, and should not be managed at home.

Is the location and pattern of my swelling expected? How much walking is suitable today? Should I check my blood pressure? Which wound changes need review, and when can I begin physiotherapy or compression support?