You can physically get pregnant again as soon as you start ovulating after a C‑section, which for many people can be as early as a few weeks after birth if they are not exclusively breastfeeding and are not using contraception. The bigger question is not “can” but “when is it safest,” because your uterus and abdominal wall need time to heal.

Recommended waiting time

Many professional guidelines and hospitals suggest waiting at least 12–18 months after a C‑section before conceiving again, to lower the risk of complications like uterine rupture, placenta problems, and preterm birth. Some organizations and specialists consider 18–24 months between births (not just between pregnancies) to be the “ideal” spacing, especially if you hope for a vaginal birth after caesarean (VBAC).

Minimum safe interval

Some sources describe 6 months as an absolute minimum interval before becoming pregnant again, but also note that this is shorter than what is generally recommended for the best safety margin. Even though the skin incision may look healed in a few weeks, the uterine scar can take around 6 months or more to regain strength, so earlier pregnancies may carry higher risks and usually need closer monitoring.

If pregnancy happens sooner

Many people do have healthy pregnancies even when they conceive earlier than 12 months after a C‑section, but the pregnancy is usually considered higher risk and watched more closely with scans and specialist care. If you get pregnant sooner than planned, contact your obstetrician or midwife promptly so they can check your scar, discuss birth options, and set up a monitoring plan.

What to do now

• Talk with the doctor or midwife who did your C‑section about your specific situation, including how your surgery and recovery went, your age, and any other health issues.

• Use effective contraception until you and your clinician decide on a safe timeframe to start trying again.

• If you have pain at your scar, heavy periods, or other concerning symptoms, get checked before trying to conceive, as these can affect the advice about timing.

This is general information only; a personalised recommendation has to come from your own maternity or gynecology team.