An interview with Dr. Rieke Hermann, gynecologist, mother of three, and experienced with C-sections
You’ve just had a C-section and want to keep your baby as close as possible – but you're unsure if a baby carrier is even an option after surgery? Many new moms ask themselves this question. And the answers they receive are often contradictory.
That's why we spoke with Dr. Rieke Hermann from MamAcademy – a gynecologist, mother of three, and an enthusiastic babywearer herself after a C-section. She provides answers that are medically sound and also come from real-life motherhood.
"Am I even allowed to use a baby carrier after a C-section?"
Yes – and that's the most important message of this article.
"Wearing is possible even after a C-section. It's important to wait for the incision to heal – the scar should be completely closed and no longer painful. This can take varying amounts of time, so it's crucial to listen to your own body. Carrying can make everyday life easier and at the same time promote closeness and bonding with the baby."
"Many mothers hear: no carrying for 6 weeks – what's behind that?"
Most people are familiar with this recommendation – but where does it actually come from?
"This recommendation is rather generalized and dates back to a time when women were severely restricted after operations in general. Medically, it's less about a strict prohibition and more about waiting for wound healing and protecting the pelvic floor. Today we know: adapted movement is sensible, not complete rest."
And everyday life can't always be planned that way anyway: "Sometimes it's not possible to completely avoid carrying. Babies have different needs – and with multiple children at home, it's not always possible to delegate carrying."
When is a baby carrier medically safe after a C-section?
"This depends heavily on the individual healing process. In many cases, gentle carrying is possible after just a few weeks" – provided three conditions are met:
The scar is well-healed, there is no pain, and you feel physically stable.
What happens to the scar if the hip belt presses on it?
A valid thought – especially when considering the hip belt of a baby carrier.
"Constant pressure on the fresh scar can be uncomfortable and irritate healing. Therefore, it's important to position the hip belt so that it does not lie directly on the scar, but above it."
An important note for everyone using the Rookie Premium Elite: With newborns, the hip belt automatically sits higher – closer to the waist than the hips, and thus well above the C-section scar. This allows for a comfortable position from the start.
What should I pay attention to when carrying after a C-section?
"When carrying after a C-section, it is particularly important that no direct pressure is exerted on the scar – and the internal scars should not hurt either. Maintain an upright posture, without arching your back or making evasive movements with your back. Avoid consciously or unconsciously building up pressure in the abdominal cavity."
And above all: "Start with short carrying times and see how you feel during and after. Don't overdo it by starting with hours of carrying right away."
Which carrying position do you recommend immediately after a C-section?
"Initially, carrying in front of the body is particularly suitable, as you can feel your baby well and control their head. When carrying in front of your body, you have your baby in view the entire time. An close, stable, yet comfortable position is important."
A practical guideline: "You should be able to comfortably kiss your baby's head – this ensures the carrier is sitting high enough."
How should the hip belt sit correctly – so it doesn't press on the scar?
"The hip belt should sit above the C-section scar – often more towards the waist than at hip height. The key is: no pressure on sensitive tissue."
When should I wait longer?
There are signals you should definitely listen to. Dr. Rieke Hermann recommends planning more time if you have pain in the scar area, feel a pulling or pressure sensation in your abdomen, feel unstable, or have prolapse symptoms.
"Targeted training of the pelvic floor and core muscles will help you gain the stability needed for healthy carrying."
What role does carrying play for bonding after a C-section?
"A very big one. Especially after a C-section, where bonding is sometimes experienced with a delay, carrying can help to build closeness, security, and connection. Close skin contact, gentle movement, and rhythm have a regulating and calming effect on the nervous system – for both mother and baby."
Dr. Rieke Hermann's personal experience: Rookie after a C-section
"For me personally, carrying was a real game-changer. Especially in the phase when you still feel physically insecure, it helped me regain confidence in my body – and at the same time be very close to my baby."
"The Rookie was particularly comfortable because it adapts softly, is easy to wear above the scar, and I could adjust it well to my needs. Especially in everyday life with three children, it was particularly helpful for me to meet the needs of the older children as well."
What would you say to mothers who feel guilty after a C-section?
"That they did absolutely nothing wrong and there's no reason to feel that way. A C-section is not a 'worse birth,' but often a necessary and safe decision. Bonding with our baby doesn't happen at the moment of birth, but is a process that is shaped primarily in the first three years. The many small moments after birth are significantly more decisive. And that's exactly where carrying can provide incredible support."
The Rookie Premium Elite: Thoughtful, even for after a C-section
If you want to carry your baby after a C-section, you need a carrier that adapts to your body – not the other way around. The Rookie Premium Elite was developed precisely for this.
The soft, certified organic fabrics adapt snugly without exerting harsh pressure on sensitive tissue. The integrated UV50 protection makes it the ideal companion for the first outings after the postpartum period, without extra sun protection for your baby. The breathable material ensures that neither mom nor baby overheat. For newborns, the hip belt automatically sits higher, significantly above the C-section scar. And because it's continuously adjustable from birth, it adapts to your body at every stage.
Rookie
Premium Elite
Baby Carrier
Color: Beige
- Soft organic cotton — certified & low-pollutant
- Easy to put on by yourself — even for beginners
- Padded head support for newborns
- UV Protection 50 — ideal for outdoor excursions
- C-section friendly — high waist belt
- Durable — will last for your 2nd child too
"From my perspective, a truly thoughtful, body-friendly carrier – especially after a C-section." — Dr. Rieke Hermann, Gynecologist & Rookie Mom
Your body after a C-section: Finding your center again
Carrying is a valuable first step. But the journey back to your own center after a C-section is a process – physically, emotionally, and mentally.
Dr. Rieke Hermann and the MamAcademy team will support you in the Postpartum Power – Pelvic Floor Intensive Course.
Say goodbye to discomfort, strengthen your core, and truly find yourself again after birth.
👉 To the MamAcademy Postpartum Power Course
The most important things at a glance
Can I use a baby carrier after a C-section? Yes – as soon as the scar has healed and there is no pain. Listen to your body.
When can I carry after a C-section? Often after just a few weeks, varies individually. Start with short sessions.
Does the hip belt press on the C-section scar? No, if it sits correctly: above the scar, more towards the waist. With newborns, this happens automatically with the Rookie.
Which carrying position is best after a C-section? Carrying in front of the body – you have your baby in view and can easily control their head and position.
What if I feel guilty about the C-section? Bonding doesn't happen at the moment of birth – but in the many small moments afterward. Carrying is one of them.
About Dr. Rieke Hermann: Gynecologist, mother of three, and co-founder of MamAcademy – the online platform for women surrounding pregnancy, birth, and the postpartum phase. More at diemamacademy.de
