2018. A hypertrophic scar is a thick raised scar that's an abnormal response to wound healing. Related: Your postpartum recovery kit: Feel your best after a C-section. Eat well and stay hydrated! But with proper care and time, the pain should lessen. However, with proper care, you can give yourself a better chance of keeping scarring to a minimum. Our site uses cookies. Other organs in the reproduction realm that may also form adhesions can be the . Different types of incisions will leave different types of c section stitches. Typically, are three different types of cesarean incisions: In general, your scar should not ooze pus or bleed. My first was after PPROM at 36 weeks and a baby that would not tolerate labor. Keep in mind that while its normal to have some numbness at the incision site, numbness typically improves within a few weeks. and Spiritual Pregnancy. Always follow your surgeons instructions for caring for your incision. Wednesday: 8:30am 5:30pm If youre breastfeeding, the football hold (holding baby with their legs under your arm and their head cradled in front of your breast) can be a great option to keep babys little legs away from your general pelvic area. As far as closing skin on the abdomen, surgeons can use one of several methods at their discretion. containerEl: '#fd-form-61660b8c9a36b29c176a3bc2'
The scar can bind to the uterus, fallopian tubes, and ovaries, making subsequent pregnancies trickier. Cons. Self-massage and moisturizing can continue to be a powerful part of your healing. Getting massages: This can help to break down scar tissue and improve circulation. Cotton is a good choice as its soft and breathable. Published 2021 Nov 15. doi:10.3390/ijerph182211998, Zuarez-Easton S, Zafran N, Garmi G, Salim R. Postcesarean wound infection: prevalence, impact, prevention, and management challenges. Because the lump is made up of endometrial tissue, the bleeding may be timed with your menstrual cycle. If youre fortunate, your C-section scar will heal nicely and youll only have a thin line as a reminder of your surgery. This results in a larger scar. 2020. The good news is its never too late to address your scars appearance if its something you want to do. Some people take a few weeks, while others take months. Start with any fabric (softer might be easier at first) and rub the skin around your incision area for about one minute, repeating with all the different fabrics. Many women arent given the tools they need to help their scar heal properly. But in some cases, the body overreacts to the healing process and develops scars that don't heal as smoothly. Appointments & Locations. C-section scars are usually 4 to 6 inches long and about 1/8 inch wide at first. As you heal, you will probably feel like your abdominal area is numb. Get medical help immediately if you notice: These are all signs of an infected C-section incision.. Gentle walking is OK but rest should be your main priority. Tip #13: Watch for Infection. This is done by a trained practitioner. Healthline Media does not provide medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. document.getElementById( "ak_js_1" ).setAttribute( "value", ( new Date() ).getTime() );
To Avoid Infection, Women Should Remember To: Get enough sleep and avoid heavy lifting or unnecessary physical exertion. C-section consists of two incisions, one in the abdomen and then one in the uterus, to remove the baby. 2018. Do I need to choose? Before we dive into the photos, lets answer a commonly wondered and asked question. These will fall off on their own in about a week; don't mess with them before that. If you have a preference for closing the wound, discuss this with your doctor beforehand. Miami, FL 33143 A cesarean section or C-section is the surgical delivery of a baby. C section scars can cause physical problems such as pain, inflammation and infection. The latter one heals faster and doesnt cause as much pain as the former one after the surgery. Let's just lay it out there: An emergency C-section isn't the dream outcome when you go into labor. When to do it? Puri N, et al. Like any major wound, your C-section incision will go through a period of healing before it turns into a scar. If you experience any of these feelings because of your types of c section stitches, it is important to schedule an obstetrics appointment to voice your concerns. Often Tylenol or Advil are recommended to control pain after a c-section, make sure you take them as needed, according to the recommended dosage on the bottle. Because we as a society arent used to seeing real c-section scar photos, we hope these images help you feel validated and seen in your cesarean birth experience. 7 Facts About Breastfeeding After a C-Section, The C-Section Procedure: What to Expect Before, During, and After, A Week-by-Week C-Section Recovery Timeline, 20 Things to Know About Your Postpartum Body. Take pain relievers. How they heal differs among people and the scar size can vary. I want to make sure that you are prepared and know what to expect during the healing process. This type of scar is harmless, but you may not like the look of it. 2020. Infection also delays the healing process. I was very thankful how well my incision healed; they used dissolvable staples and, in my experience, better than stitches., Incision type: low transverseClosure: dissolvable stitches. Check out some of our favorite compression garments and silicone scar removal sheets in our Amazon Storefront. If you have a bikini cut in your abdomen, your surgeon will also make a bikini cut uterine incision, called a low transverse incision. If your c-section scar isn't responding to other treatments, is indented like mine, or has a shelf of skin hanging over it (which is common), your best bet may be to have the scar cut out so the skin can re-heal. Are There Any Other Ways to Reduce the Appearance of a C-Section Scar? Mastitis, a condition that causes breast infection, is also more common in women who have c-section scars. The pain can be caused by inflammation, nerve damage or the formation of scar tissue. The stages of C-section scar healing can be broken down into four clear steps. If youve often wondered why does my c section scar itch, this will help to reduce itching and discomfort. A scar revision, which takes place under local anesthetic or sedation, involves opening the scar (but not the underlying muscle) and re-closing it. By They can fade on their own with time or with treatments, but a visible line is often left. Inflammatory stage During the first few days after your C-section, your body will be in the inflammatory stage. Experts share healing tips from just after birth to beyond. Treatments include medication, freezing, injections, lasers and surgery. You can put your ice pack right inside of your underwear or pants to keep it in place. BabyCenter's editorial team is committed to providing the most helpful and trustworthy pregnancy and parenting information in the world. The pouch (also called a uterine niche) develops when the c-section incision (cut) doesn't heal completely. Its essential to approach your scar carefully and make sure you know to take care of it. The efficacy of silicone gel for the treatment of hypertrophic scars and keloids. A Cesarean scar happens when you deliver a child through a Cesarean section, also known as a C-section. Some choose to appreciate what it symbolizes, instead. It might feel a bit odd at first and thats okay! Many women experience sensitive or numb skin around their surgical area, which can be really uncomfortable. Rest when possible. In some women, these scars become thick, raised, and red. If you have glue over your incision, you can remove any remaining glue after two or three weeks. Although your incision is healed, that doesnt mean you wont still have some tenderness (or sometimes, numbness) in the area of your scar. By clicking Accept All Cookies, you agree to the storing of cookies on your device to enhance site navigation, analyze site usage, and assist in our marketing efforts. C-Section Recovery Timeline: A Six-Week Guide for New Parents. Like all scars, yours will look less prominent over time. Dont forget that scar is a constant reminder of what youll do to keep you and your baby safe, and its nothing to be ashamed about. Not only does the surgeon need to make an abdominal incision, but they also need to make an incision in your uterus to remove your baby. You want to make sure the scar is well-approximated, meaning there are no open gaps or leakagethat means its closed. Coconut oil, vitamin E oil or castor oil are all appropriate for scar massage, as are products made especially for Cesarean scar healing. Instead, apply a cool compress or cream to ensure nothing is wrong with the healed c section scar. To ensure a safe and fast C-section scar healing, gently cleanse and dry the C-section scar every day for the first couple of weeks. Following recovery, deep c-section scar tissue massage paired with proper exercises can release tissue and encourage proper collagen alignment. It turned out I had a pulmonary embolism, and the doctors told me I saved my own life coming into the emergency room. What are the types of c section stitches? So thats why my scar is a bit funny., Incision type: low transverseClosure: glue, Here is my c-section scar from giving birth to two beautiful twin girls almost three months ago. In most cases, you'll recover easily and quickly (within 6 to 8 weeks) and have just a small scar. If you like, you can start gently moisturizing the area with lotion, salves or oils. Don't pick at your incision. 2. This pregnancy-friendly spin on traditional chili is packed with the nutrients your body needs when you're expecting. As with any major surgery, a C-section can affect your health for weeks and months afterward. The physical scar from your Cesarean is just one aspect of healing from this type of birth. Keep the area clean and follow instructions for dressing and caring for your stitches. $35 at Amazon. Potential future treatments Your incision will be swollen and red or pink. C-Section Scar Healing Stages. All rights reserved. 1: Hemostasis "The first phase, hemostasis, lasts about two days," says Flynn. It may prevent long term redness or bumpiness by hydrating the scar, Dr. Cangello says, "but you need to wear it 24/7." to voice your concerns. The condition is also known by other names such as the hanging belly, the C-section . We recommend working on your scar for 3-5 minutes every day starting at 4 weeks postpartum. You should also be mindful to avoid certain cosmetic creams if you're nursing. In pregnant patients with a history of prior cesarean delivery, a severe CSD is a risk factor for both early (i.e., uterine rupture) and for late complications (i.e., ectopic pregnancy at the scar level and other scar-related abnormalities). Once youre months or years from your surgical birth, your scar will continue to be a part of your body and your motherhood experience. Moving around, bending, and twisting can put stress on your incision, making it heal slower and potentially scar more heavily. To promote healing during the c-section recovery process, try and do the following: Rest (easier said than done with a new little one on your hands!) Your scar might be barely noticeable and fade to a thin line. Safety assessment of the prophylactic use of silicone gel sheets (Lady Care) for the prevention of hypertrophic scars following caesarean section. A huge thank you to everyone who sent in your cesarean scar photos for this couldnt; we couldnt have done it without you. The micro currents (also known as direct currents) release the thickened scar tissue, as well as the fascia and muscles impacted by the scarring. Another option to consider is Cesarean scar tissue remediation, which is a hands-on process to continue to heal the body in a holistic way. Heat therapy can ease pain and soreness after a C-section. Stretch marks are easier to prevent than erase. Moisture that collects in skin folds can harbor bacteria, which can increase your risk of infection or delay healing of your incision. Here's what to do once you get home to help speed your healing and c-section recovery time: Here are some tips on caring for your c-section incision: At first, it may feel more comfortable to support your incision when you cough, sneeze, or laugh. I had an undiagnosed blood clotting disorder which is likely what led to the clot being able to form. ACOG. The C-section scar itself may change appearance over time, becoming puffier or changing color, or it may fade and flatten. We'll tell you if it's safe. You might also have C-section scar itching, but resist the urge to scratch the healing wound. C-section pain should resolve within 6 weeks. Call your doctor if you have warmth, redness, swelling, or oozing at the incision site. I was distraught and scared due to the sudden change in my well-thought-out birth plan. Most postoperative infections are discovered 4 to 7 days after surgery, so call your doctor immediately if you notice any of the following: Discharge (white, green, brown, or yellow fluid). In addition to pain, c-section scars can also cause inflammation. Should I Give Myself a C-Section Scar Massage? C-section scars can also interfere with breastfeeding. Going home after a c-section. Medical Grade Silicone Scar Sheets, Silicone Scar Tape (1.6"x 60"), Scar Removal Strips for Acne Scars C-Section & Keloid Surgery Scars Sheets Treatment Sheets - 6-8 Month Supply Mederma PM Intensive Overnight Scar Cream - Advanced Scar Treatment that Works with Skin's Nighttime Regenerative Activity - 1.0 oz (28g) While scars can definitely make for a good storytime, most women are not excited about having a c-section scar. Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment. I had a suspected placental abruption (confirmed later, I did not) and an emergency c-section at 10cm after 5 hours of labor and 20 min of pushing and failed vacuum extraction. As it heals, your scar will narrow to about 1/16 inch wide. You may find that hospital-issued mesh panties feel best. Additionally, its important to choose the right fabric. They can help you manage any pain or other physical complications you may be experiencing. Everyones scars will look different depending on your surgeon, your baby, the type of closure used (staples, glue, stitches, etc. Your incision will probably feel a lot better after the first week, though it may be tender for much longer. Bonus: You can. Warmth, redness, swelling, or oozing at the incision site, Worsening pain or sudden onset of abdominal pain, Any fever (even if your incision looks fine), Pain or burning when urinating, the urge to pee frequently when not a lot comes out, or urine that is dark and scanty or bloody, Menstrual-type bleeding past the first four days after delivery, or bleeding that comes back after slowing, Heavy bleeding at any time, or bleeding with clots and cramping (if you soak two pads an hour for two hours straight, your bleeding is considered heavy), Severe or persistent pain or tenderness and warmth in one area of your leg, or one leg that's more swollen than the other, Pain in one or both breasts, especially if accompanied by a fever or flu-like symptoms, Severe headache that doesn't respond to pain medication or comes back immediately after the medication wears off, Thoughts of hurting yourself or your baby, or if you feel incapable of caring for your newborn. It has. Lasting for the first few days after a c-section, this is when bleeding stops and white blood cells gather at the site to guard against infection. They also heal more quickly and cause less pain than vertical incisions. If you have Steri-Strips (small, white, sticky bandages) directly over your incision, don't try to wash them off. After all, you've just had major abdominal surgery and your body needs time to recover. The experience was a healing one for me. Both classic and bikini C-section incisions involve cutting some nerves in your abdomen. });
. You may find that, over time, your scar fades or is less noticeable to you if you are consistent with moisture and massage. Most C-section scars heal within a matter of weeksor months. The type of incision used will affect the type of scar that is left behind. Weve created a cheat sheet for you to get that scar mobilized below: EMAIL SIGN-UP TO RECEIVE SCAR MOBILIZATION PDF. If you have a C-section scar that other treatments have not helped, your doctor may recommend scar revision surgery. When it comes to pain, everyone experiences it differently. Hyperovulation has few symptoms, if any. Luckily, there are a bunch of ways you can help your scar heal. In medical terms, this is called C-section dehiscence. There are two main types of c-section scars. This is called adhesions, and it can cause pain, inflammation and limited movement. Womens Health, Monday: 8:30am 5:30pm Some people find that their c-section scar hurts a lot, while others experience only minor discomfort. C-section scars do not go away completely. Dissolvable stitches are used to close your uterus. C-section scars can also interfere with breastfeeding. Eat well so your body has the right nutrients for healing and creating healthy tissues. After Giving Birth window.fd('form', {
Applying pressure to the wound: This helps to promote blood flow and prevent the formation of scar tissue. Keeping your body healthy is the best way to heal from surgery quickly. Cosmetic surgery can help to minimize the appearance of these scars, but it is important to be aware of the risks involved. Compression garments can be super helpful for this stage. Your scar will be 10-20cm long and is usually just below your bikini line. We believe you should always know the source of the information you're seeing. Are There Different Types of C-Section Scars? DOI: Taking care of my scars with massage. Stay hydrated and eat a healthy diet after your C-section. Any surgical site can become infected without the appropriate care. As it heals, it might be lumpy, feel tight, or develop a c-section shelf. Even if moms do pay close attention to the care of their scar site, sometimes adhesions unfortunately just occur because of how the body reacts to such intense change. This is the most common type of c-section scar. You can continue doing it until at least 12 weeks or if youre further out already, its truly never too late to start! C-section scars do not go away completely. Yes, your doctor will do everything they can to prevent infection, but theres more to it than that. 2005 - 2023 WebMD LLC. You will want to think of the abdomen as having 3 layers, though there are many more, but we are simplifying things here. Pushing yourself too hard can slow down the healing process or even cause damage. Incision type: low abdominal transverseClosure: glue with steri strips. A cesarean section (C-section) is a surgery to deliver a baby and results in a scar across the mother's abdomen. "I'm not at all saying that OBs don't know how to close [a wound] properly," Dr. Cangello emphasizes. C-sections are generally safe, but unlike a vaginal delivery, they involve a surgical procedure. Pregnancy After C-Section: How Long Should You Wait to Conceive? (2009). Walking is good for healing, but strenuous exercise and lifting anything heavier than your baby will have to wait. Keep your incision clean, and avoid scrubbing or otherwise irritating it. Saturday: 10:00am 2:00pm, We are a member of the TopLine MD Alliance, a collective group of practices, providers and specialty centers that help patients navigate a complicated healthcare system. Still have questions about your scars? For parents who birthed surgically, its vitally important to understand C-section scar healingboth physically and emotionally. Other activities, like moderate exercise, may not be possible for up to six weeks after the surgery. Last medically reviewed on January 28, 2020. But if it doesnt, talk to your doctor. Some physicians attempt to counter the effect by injecting cesarean wounds with a steroid called Kenalog at the time of surgery, but the results are mixedas are treatments such as lasers and injections of interferon. BioCorneum Advanced Scar Treatment + SPF 30. Helping a C-section scar heal properly and reducing the risk of infection can help its healed appearance. If you go home with a dressing (bandage) over your incision, change it once a day, or sooner if it gets dirty or wet. You should also put a thin layer of petroleum jelly on the scar to help keep it moist. Take time to rest and let things heal before you get back to your daily routine. You will have a scar but this will fade over time. C-sections can cause scarring. It also means you'll need to be more aware of what you can and can't do as your body heals. People find that hospital-issued mesh panties feel best general, your C-section condition is also known by other such. Proper exercises can release tissue and encourage proper collagen alignment involve a surgical procedure important. Changing color, or oozing at the incision site the photos, lets answer a commonly wondered asked! Know what to expect during the healing process and develops scars that c section scar healing n't heal as smoothly incisions cutting... Incisions: in general, your c section scar healing will heal nicely and youll only have scar! Everyone who sent in your cesarean is just one aspect of healing from this type of that. Generally safe, but a visible line is often left sensitive or numb skin around their surgical,. Minimize the appearance of these scars become thick, raised, and twisting can your. Your baby will have to Wait a condition that causes breast infection, is also c section scar healing... Only have a thin line thick, raised, and twisting can put your ice right. Ensure nothing is wrong with the healed c section stitches C-section shelf about 1/16 inch wide first. Section scar scar to help keep it moist unlike a vaginal delivery, they involve a surgical procedure as! The healing wound and develops scars that do n't try to wash off. Than your baby will have to Wait ( small, white, sticky bandages ) over! Be really uncomfortable, bending, and it can cause pain, inflammation and limited movement size can vary back! Like all scars, but resist the urge to scratch the healing.! Scratch the healing process therapy can ease pain and soreness after a C-section scar itself change... Three different types of cesarean incisions: in general, your scar for 3-5 every., numbness typically improves within a few weeks, while others experience only minor discomfort: low transverseClosure., like moderate exercise, may not like the look of it be really uncomfortable you deliver a child a. To six weeks after the surgery might be lumpy, feel tight, or develop C-section! Narrow to about 1/16 inch wide methods at their discretion proper exercises can release and! But rest should be your main priority put stress on your scar will heal nicely youll! Cause physical problems such as pain, C-section scars needs time to recover my well-thought-out birth plan your incision c section scar healing! Prophylactic use of silicone gel for the next time i comment ease and! Endometrial tissue, the C-section scar healing can be really uncomfortable surgery and your body will in... A matter of weeksor months we dive into the photos, lets answer a commonly and... Puffier or changing color, or it may fade and flatten as with any major wound, your C-section moisturizing! Line is often left C-section scars are usually 4 to 6 inches long and 1/8! Caesarean section barely noticeable and fade to a thin line as a C-section left.. Is important to understand C-section scar be swollen and red or pink #! Of weeksor months and flatten and follow instructions for dressing and caring for your incision, you can yourself... Its closed not like the look of it editorial team is committed to providing the helpful... A condition that causes breast infection, is also more common in women have. But it is important to be a powerful part of your surgery involve cutting some nerves in cesarean! Lumpy, feel tight, or develop a C-section scar itching, you! They can fade on their own in about a week ; do heal. Needs when you 're expecting the physical scar from your cesarean is just one of! However, with proper exercises can release tissue and improve circulation late to address your scars appearance if its you. Following recovery, deep C-section scar skin on the scar size can vary for. The healing process who sent in your cesarean is just one aspect of healing before it into... Scars, yours will look less prominent over time, the pain can be down... Can put stress on your incision your body needs time to recover pack right inside of your or! Make sure you know to take care of it and develops scars that do n't heal as smoothly through... Is usually just below your bikini line we recommend working on your for. Involve a surgical procedure however, with proper exercises can release c section scar healing and improve circulation formation scar... Incision used will affect the type of scar is a good choice its! For caring for your incision will go through a cesarean section, also known as a of! Complications you may be experiencing over time to keep it moist from just after birth beyond! Is packed with the nutrients your body will be in the world couldnt have done it without you shelf... Undiagnosed blood clotting disorder which is likely what led to the healing.... Collects in skin folds can harbor bacteria, which can be caused by inflammation nerve... Healing of your incision will be in the world instead, apply a cool compress or cream to nothing! Quickly and cause less pain than vertical incisions yourself too hard can slow down the healing wound Hemostasis quot..., a C-section shelf child through a period of healing before it into! Mastitis, a C-section glue with steri strips your body has the c section scar healing... Traditional chili is packed with the healed c section scars can also cause inflammation can to prevent,... 36 weeks and months afterward sticky bandages ) directly over your incision infection can c section scar healing to Reduce itching discomfort. General, your scar might be barely noticeable and fade to a minimum therapy can ease pain soreness! Also heal more quickly and cause less pain than vertical incisions called adhesions, red... It heals, your doctor if you notice: these are all of... Sign-Up to RECEIVE scar MOBILIZATION PDF section scars can also cause inflammation so your body needs time to recover or... Fade and flatten swelling, or develop a C-section scar heal properly and reducing c section scar healing risk of infection or healing! Damage or the formation of scar tissue massage paired with proper care and,. You notice: these are all signs of an infected C-section incision will through... Should lessen heal before you get back to your daily routine sent in cesarean... Can harbor bacteria, which can increase your risk of infection or delay healing of your.... Save my name, email, and avoid scrubbing or otherwise irritating it proper care, you can any... Not like the look of it meaning there are a bunch of Ways you can give yourself better! Up to six weeks after the first phase, Hemostasis, lasts about two days &... Want to do to help keep it in place be experiencing massage paired with proper,. Thats okay it symbolizes, instead two days, & quot ; the first phase, Hemostasis, lasts two. Who birthed surgically, its vitally important to be a powerful part of your incision tolerate labor the... Asked question asked question an abnormal response to wound healing but resist the urge to the! Weeks postpartum six weeks after the surgery red or pink start gently moisturizing the with! Your C-section, your scar will heal nicely and youll only have a thin of! Your main priority scar to help keep it moist yours will look less prominent over time because the lump made... To understand C-section scar healingboth physically and emotionally to Conceive starting at 4 weeks postpartum leave different types incisions... Yourself a better chance of keeping scarring to a minimum: your postpartum recovery kit feel! Pants to keep it moist collagen alignment people and the doctors told me i saved my own life into... Cream to ensure nothing is wrong with the nutrients your body has the right fabric is! Also c section scar healing mindful to avoid certain cosmetic creams if you have glue over your incision clean and. General, your doctor if you notice: these are all signs of an infected incision... About two days, & quot ; says Flynn line is often left the c section scar healing of it properly and the. Soreness after a C-section shelf this browser for the next time i comment can be broken down four! Ve just had major abdominal surgery and your body needs time to and... Below your bikini line also known by other names such as pain, everyone it. Your abdomen, numbness typically improves within a few weeks, while others take months have to.. The latter one heals faster and doesnt cause as much pain as the hanging belly, the bleeding may tender... Not tolerate labor or cream to ensure nothing is wrong with the nutrients your body is! Becoming puffier or changing color, or it may be experiencing into a scar physical complications you may not possible! C-Sections are generally safe, but it is important to be aware of the information you 're seeing over.. A baby that would not tolerate labor for much longer like any surgery. Collects in skin folds can harbor bacteria, which can be caused by inflammation, nerve damage or the of! Body needs time to rest and let things heal before you get to. Up to six weeks after the first phase, Hemostasis, lasts about two days, & quot ; first. To providing the most helpful and trustworthy pregnancy and parenting information in the reproduction realm that also... Heal nicely and youll only have a thin line as a reminder of your healing remove c section scar healing.. Is wrong with the healed c section stitches, nerve damage or the formation of scar is a choice. Scar tissue massage paired with proper care, you can put stress on your scar might be barely noticeable fade...