Postpartum compression after a C-section: when and what to wear
Recovering from a caesarean is recovering from major abdominal surgery while also caring for a newborn. Many women look for support for their tummy, pelvis and lower back in the weeks after a C-section, and postpartum compression leggings and shorts are a popular option.
This guide covers when you might start wearing compression after a C-section, what to look for, and how to choose between shorts and leggings. It is general information, not medical advice. Always follow your obstetrician, midwife or women's health physio, who know how your recovery is going.
Why is C-section recovery different?
After a vaginal birth, recovery focuses mostly on the pelvic floor. After a C-section, you are also healing a surgical wound through several layers of the abdominal wall. Your core muscles, pelvic floor and lower back all have to adjust after nine months of pregnancy. Everyday movements like getting out of bed, lifting your baby and feeding can feel hard on your tummy and back.
When can I start wearing compression after a C-section?
There is no single date that suits everyone. Your clinician will consider how your scar is healing, any complications, and your general recovery. Many women begin with gentle support and move to firmer compression once the wound has closed and their clinician is comfortable. If you are unsure, ask at your postnatal check.
What should I look for in postpartum compression after a C-section?
1. A high waist that sits above the scar
A low waistband can sit right on a C-section scar and rub. Look for a high or extra-high waist that sits comfortably above it and supports the lower abdomen.
2. Pelvic and lower back support
Supacore postpartum styles use the patented CORETECH® waistband, designed to support the pelvis and lower back as well as the tummy. Many women find that support helpful for walking, feeding and lifting.
3. Medical-grade, not just shapewear
Shapewear is designed to change how you look. Medical compression is designed to support your body. Supacore's CORETECH® garments are registered with the TGA, and Charlotte and Nina state 25+ mmHg and 25 mmHg compression on their product pages.
4. Easy on and off
In the early weeks you may not be able to bend easily. Shorts are often simpler to put on than full-length leggings. Sit down, roll the garment up from the ankles and ease the waistband up last.
Shorts or leggings after a C-section?
- Mary CORETECH® Shorts: high-waisted shorts with pelvic and core support, quick to put on and cool to wear.
- Nina Extra High Waisted Shorts: an extra-high waist for more tummy coverage, 25 mmHg as stated on the product page.
- Olivia Postpartum Compression Leggings: our bestselling postpartum leggings for walks and everyday wear.
- Amelia Postpartum Compression Leggings: full-length postpartum support for the abdomen, pelvis and legs.
- Charlotte CORETECH® Leggings: body-mapped 25+ mmHg compression targeting the pelvis and core.
See the full postpartum compression collection.
C-section and abdominal separation
Abdominal separation (diastasis recti, or DRAM) is common after pregnancy, whether you had a C-section or a vaginal birth. If you notice a ridge or gap down the middle of your tummy, ask your physio to check it. Our articles on recovering from abdominal separation explain more.
How do I get the right size after birth?
Your body changes quickly in the weeks after birth. Supacore garments are sized by height and weight, so use your current measurements and the women's size guide. If you are between sizes, choose the smaller size. Shipping and returns details are on our shipping and returns page, and you can check rebates on our health fund rebate page.
Had a vaginal birth, or wondering how many weeks to keep going? Read our guide to how long to wear postpartum compression, and when to start.
Still pregnant? Read our guide to compression during pregnancy. Questions? Call us on +61 468 072 885.
Frequently asked questions
When can I wear compression leggings after a C-section?
Follow the advice of your obstetrician, midwife or women's health physio. Timing depends on how your scar is healing and how you are recovering. Many women wait until their clinician is happy with the wound before moving to firm compression.
Are postpartum compression shorts better than a belly band after a C-section?
A belly band only wraps the tummy. High-waisted compression shorts or leggings support the lower abdomen, pelvis and lower back together and are less likely to ride up. Your physio can advise which suits your recovery.
Will compression leggings rub on my C-section scar?
Supacore postpartum styles have a high waistband that sits above a typical low transverse C-section scar, with smooth fabric over the area. Check the scar is fully closed and comfortable before wearing firm compression, and stop if it becomes sore.
Should I choose shorts or leggings after a C-section?
Shorts such as Mary and Nina are cooler and quick to put on, which helps in the early weeks. Leggings such as Olivia and Amelia add support down the legs and suit walks and return to exercise.
Can I claim postpartum compression on my health fund?
Supacore CORETECH® garments are registered with the TGA. Many Australian private health funds offer a rebate under Extras cover when your practitioner completes our Health Fund Rebate Form. Check your level of cover with your fund.
What if I also have abdominal separation?
Abdominal separation (DRAM) is common after pregnancy and can occur alongside a C-section. Read our abdominal separation articles and ask your physio to check your tummy muscles.