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 can bring 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.
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, it can cause swelling, inflammation, and pain in the body.
At our clinic in Edmonton, we use the Dr. Vodder method of MLD, a world-renowned technique known for its gentle effectiveness, scientific foundation, and use in both medical and wellness settings.
MLD for Pregnancy Swelling and Discomfort
During pregnancy, the 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 gentle treatment for many pregnant clients, and can help by:
Stimulating lymph flow to reduce swelling
Improving comfort in the limbs
Supporting circulation and light detoxification
Encouraging deep relaxation
Many expectant moms describe their MLD sessions as soothing and relaxing — a 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 support your recovery afterwards.
Benefits Before a C-Section
Manual lymphatic drainage may provide the following benefits before a c-section:
Reducing pre-existing fluid retention
Preparing the tissue and lymphatic pathways for surgery
Helping calm the nervous system and reduce pre-op anxiety
We recommend coming in for MLD about 48 hours before your scheduled surgery, for three treatments spaced 12 hours apart as close as possible to the surgery time.
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, with your recovery 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 can help improve the appearance 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.
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 is a treatment that can help you 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.