The C-section shelf (overhang): what causes it and what can help

Published by NS Therapy · Last reviewed 17 October 2026

The "C-section shelf" is the soft overhang of tissue some people notice above their caesarean scar. It is common and usually has more than one cause: scar tissue tethering the skin inwards, tummy muscle changes after pregnancy, how fat is distributed, and swelling. Some people find scar mobilisation and gentle core rehabilitation helpful, but results vary. It is not harmful in itself, but see your GP or a women's health physio if you have pain, a bulge or bladder symptoms.

What is the C-section shelf?

The shelf, also called a C-section overhang or "mummy pooch", is a fold or roll of soft tissue that sits over or just above the scar. It is a very common thing to notice after a caesarean, and it can appear weeks, months or years afterwards.

It is a description rather than a diagnosis, and its size and look vary a lot from person to person.

What causes it?

There is rarely a single cause. These are the usual contributors:

Scar tethering: the scar tissue can grip the layers beneath it and pull the skin inwards, creating a fold above the scar.
Tummy muscle changes: pregnancy stretches the abdominal muscles, and a gap between the muscles (diastasis recti) is common afterwards.
Fat distribution and weight changes after pregnancy and birth.
Swelling and fluid around the scar, which can ease over time.
Skin that has stretched and has not fully recovered its tension.

Does it go away?

For some people it softens over time, particularly as swelling settles and the tummy muscles recover. For others a degree of overhang stays. Nobody can promise a particular outcome, so it is worth being wary of anyone who does.

What may help

NS Therapy will be offering C-section scar therapy in Disley & Bramhall. Join the list on our home page to hear when we open.

Scar massage and mobilisation once the wound is fully healed, to help soften scar tissue that is pulling on the skin. See our guide to C-section scar massage.
Core and pelvic floor rehabilitation guided by a women's health physiotherapist, especially if you have a muscle gap or leaking.
Gentle, graded activity and general fitness at your own pace.
Patience. Tissue keeps remodelling for a long time after surgery.

When to get medical advice

Pain, a lump, or a bulge that appears when you cough, strain or sit up (this can be a hernia).
Bladder or bowel symptoms such as leaking or a sense of heaviness.
Redness, heat, swelling or discharge around the scar.
Feeling very low about how your body looks or feels after birth. Your midwife, health visitor or GP can point you to support.

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Frequently asked questions

Can massage get rid of the C-section shelf?

Massage cannot promise to remove it. It may help soften scar tissue that is tethering the skin and contributing to the fold, but the overhang usually has several causes, including muscle, fat and swelling.

Is the C-section shelf just fat?

Not always. It is often a mix of scar tethering, loose skin, fat and changes in the tummy muscles, which is why different people respond to different things.

Will exercise help the C-section overhang?

Gentle, well-guided core and pelvic floor rehabilitation can help the muscles recover. A women's health physiotherapist can advise on safe exercises after pregnancy.

Is it normal to have a C-section shelf years later?

Yes, it is common. Many people notice it long after their surgery, and it is usually not harmful. See your GP if it is painful, bulges when you strain, or comes with bladder symptoms.

When can I start scar massage for the overhang?

Once the wound has fully healed, usually around 6 to 8 weeks after birth, and your midwife or GP is happy with your recovery. There is no upper limit.