Manual Lymphatic Drainage During Pregnancy & Post C-Section
Pregnancy is beautiful — and demanding. As your body grows and shifts to support a new life, it also takes on new physical challenges. Many moms-to-be experience swelling, fluid retention, heaviness, and discomfort — especially in the legs, feet, and hands.
And for those preparing for a planned C-section, or recovering from one, the recovery process brings its own hurdles: inflammation, soreness, scar sensitivity, and stiffness.
Whether you're in your third trimester or your fourth trimester, Manual Lymphatic Drainage (MLD) can be a game-changing support in your journey. Here's how.
What Is Manual Lymphatic Drainage (MLD)?
Manual Lymphatic Drainage is a light-touch, rhythmic massage technique designed to encourage the flow of lymph — the clear fluid that carries waste and immune cells through your body. When the lymph system is sluggish or overwhelmed (as it often is during pregnancy or after surgery), it can cause swelling, inflammation, and a feeling of “stuckness” in the body.
At our clinic in Edmonton, we use the Dr. Vodder method of MLD, a world-renowned European technique known for its gentle effectiveness, scientific foundation, and use in both medical and wellness settings.
MLD for Pregnancy Swelling and Discomfort
During pregnancy, your body produces more blood and fluids to support the growing baby. This increase—combined with changes in posture and circulation—can result in:
Swollen feet, ankles, and hands
Puffy face or eyes
A feeling of fluid retention or “congestion”
Tingling or numbness from fluid pressing on nerves
MLD is a safe and gentle option for many pregnant clients (with your physician’s clearance), and can help by:
Stimulating lymph flow to reduce swelling
Improving comfort in the limbs
Supporting circulation and light detoxification
Encouraging deep relaxation (which benefits baby, too!)
Many expectant moms describe their MLD sessions as deeply soothing and relaxing—nurturing break from the intensity of day-to-day life.
MLD for C-Section Prep and Postpartum Recovery
Planning a C-section? Manual Lymphatic Drainage can help prepare your body for surgery and enhance your recovery afterwards.
Benefits Before a C-Section
Appropriately applied manual lymphatic drainage may provide the following benefits before a c-section:
Reducing pre-existing fluid retention
Preparing the tissue for a cleaner surgical field
Helping calm the nervous system and reduce pre-op anxiety
We recommend coming in for MLD about 36 hours before your scheduled surgery, with up to 3 treatments spaced 12 hours apart for optimal results.
Benefits After a C-Section
Appropriately applied manual lymphatic drainage may provide the following benefits after a c-section:
Help drain excess fluid from the surgical area
Reducing post-op swelling, bruising, and discomfort
Promoting healthy scar tissue formation
May help prevent adhesions and tightness in the lower abdomen
Encourage a smoother return to movement and comfort
Your MLD sessions will be customized based on where you're at in your recovery — always with gentleness, consent, and your well-being at the center.
Is MLD Safe for Pregnant or Postpartum Clients?
In most cases, yes — but we always recommend checking with your primary care provider first.
MLD is generally not advised for clients with:
Active infections
Cardiac conditions
Deep vein thrombosis
Certain pregnancy complications
Bonus: Supporting Your C-Section Scar
We also offer scar consultation and silicone tape, which is well-supported in clinical studies for improving the appearance and feel of surgical scars. When worn consistently (for 3–6 months), silicone tape can help minimize discoloration, thickening, and tension across the scar.
Your therapist can guide you in how and when to begin scar support — in collaboration with your primary care provider.
Book Your Prenatal or Postpartum MLD in Edmonton
Whether you’re in your third trimester or recovering from birth, your body deserves thoughtful, effective support. Manual Lymphatic Drainage offers a calm, science-informed way to feel better, faster.
Our clinic serves families across Edmonton, including Scona, Millwoods & Meadows, Southeast, Whitemud, and Central Edmonton.
Book your prenatal or post-C-section massage today
Contact us with questions about how MLD can fit into your pregnancy care plan