You'll likely feel numbness and some twinges of pain around the incision for several months. You will want to think of the abdomen as having 3 layers, though there are many more, but we are simplifying things here. Keeping your body healthy is the best way to heal from surgery quickly. (And, if you are reading this, you probably do too.) If your numbness doesnt improve, and you have shooting pain in your pelvis or down your legs, this could indicate a peripheral nerve injury. Stay hydrated and eat a healthy diet after your C-section. A C-section is a major surgery that can lead to significant scarring. Do I need to choose? Do your best to keep pressure off of the incision. C-section scars are usually 4 to 6 inches long and about 1/8 inch wide at first. 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. C-section scar recovery. Nerve damage after a C-section may improve in the months following delivery, in which case your doctor can recommend a corticosteroid injection to relieve pain. For a less invasive option, you can apply a silicone sheet to the scar, starting two weeks post C-section. It turned out I had a pulmonary embolism, and the doctors told me I saved my own life coming into the emergency room. Of course, theres no way to know how a scar will heal until it actually does. You can also undergo C-section scar surgery. C-sections are generally safe, but unlike a vaginal delivery, they involve a surgical procedure. It will be red at first but will fade over time. Signs of infection to watch out for after a C-section While the scar is healing, it's normal to experience things like pain, bleeding, numbness and sometimes itching, but it's important to contact your GP straight away if any of the below symptoms crop up as it could be a sign of infection: You have a fever For starters, make sure you keep the area clean. Are There Different Types of C-Section Scars? Isthmoceles can lead to infertility, complications during future pregnancies and other problems. Keep the wound clean and dry: How to keep c section incision dry when overweight? Last medically reviewed on January 28, 2020. As it heals, your scar will narrow to about 1/16 inch wide. Symptoms include mass or lump in the surgical scar that may cause pain and even bleeding. You're tired, you're scared, and you're in pain. The first is a horizontal scar, which is located just above the pubic bone. The method aims to eliminate the scar and improve the overall skin appearance of the lower abdomen and pelvic region. You can take a shower with the strips on and pat your incision dry after with a clean towel. Here's everything you need to know about your C-section, from what to expect after your procedure to some of the most common FAQs about the most common surgical incision around. This is a great time to start some gentle massage of your Cesarean scar. Giving yourself at least six weeks of healing. 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) Treatments include medication, freezing, injections, lasers and surgery. Here is what I wish I knew going into my second C-section: 1. Following recovery, deep c-section scar tissue massage paired with proper exercises can release tissue and encourage proper collagen alignment. Founded by new mom and self-care author Carley Schweet, Hello Postpartum aims to help fill in the gaps in postpartum care and support. Your email address will not be published. How to care for wound treated with skin glue. Flattens raised scars. Top Treatment Tips, Ovulation Tool: Find Your Most Fertile Days, Pain from the incision site getting worse over time, Drainage or pus coming from your incisions, A fever of more than 100.4 degrees Fahrenheit. The scar can bind to the uterus, fallopian tubes, and ovaries, making subsequent pregnancies trickier. Another way to track the healing process is by taking a photo at various intervals so you can compare the progressthis can be especially helpful in those first weeks with a newborn! Keloids can be itchy and painful. "This is a topical silicone treatment that uses patented FDA-approved . Scar tissue desensitization can help reduce sensitivity and bring back sensation to this area. 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. Beginning four to six weeks post-surgery (get your doctor's clearance first), massage the scar, working it with a rubbing motionfirst side to side, then up and down; then diagonal. High-waisted underwear can also be comfortable after a c-section. Learn more about our use of cookies: Cookie Policy, C-Section Wound Care: What to Know After Birth, Birthing Centers vs. This type of scar is harmless, but you may not like the look of it. As with any major surgery, a C-section can affect your health for weeks and months afterward. Book a consultation appointment at (305) 665-1133 or simply call us to address your concerns. All About C-Sections: Before, During, and After. (2009). The scar is still integrating into your body, and scar tissue may be continuing to form on the inside of your body as well. Avoid heavy lifting or straining during those first few months. Picking at the wound can cause it to become infected or worse. However, a vertical incision is considered more painful and takes longer to heal.. Your wound will take about 6 weeks to heal. Appearance concerns aside, Lo says a C-section scar massage can help prevent chronic pelvic pain. If you have stitches or staples, youll have them removed about a week later, usually in the doctors office. C-sections are becoming increasingly popular in many countries around the world, because it is seen to be a safer way to give birth. How they heal differs among people and the scar size can vary. C-section scars Post-operative care after a C-section can present big challenges for some women, especially in regards to the aesthetic appearance of their scars. If your scar has been confirmed to be fully healed by your care provider, and you are worried or concerned about your scar or want to decrease the tension, pulling sensations, swelling, or redness, you can start gentle scar massage using a c-section cream or another mild oil. The second type is a vertical scar, which runs down the middle of the stomach. Millions of people have cesarean sections. C-section consists of two incisions, one in the abdomen and then one in the uterus, to remove the baby. Both incisions are about 4 to 6 inchesjust big enough for your babys head and body to fit through. More blood and oxygen to the area is great for overall healing after a C-section. A cesarean section (C-section) is a surgery to deliver a baby and results in a scar across the mother's abdomen. All youll need are fabrics from around your house that have varying textures ranging from soft to rough. Heres what you need to know about how they can affect your health. Before we dive into the photos, lets answer a commonly wondered and asked question. But sometimes, surgery is needed to repair the damage. If you already have a C-section scar, then you have several options to make it less obvious. After about six weeks, your C-section scar will be healedmeaning you'll likely be able to resume all regular activity without disturbing it. Once youre months or years from your surgical birth, your scar will continue to be a part of your body and your motherhood experience. If you experience any of these feelings because of your types of c section stitches, it is important to schedule an. There are two main types of c-section scars. Miami, FL 33143 They're similar to keloid scars, but unlike keloids, they stay within the boundaries of the original wound. Any surgical site can become infected without the appropriate care. Claudia Boyd-Barrett is a longtime journalist based in Southern California and a proud, continually adapting mom of a teenager. Wednesday: 8:30am 5:30pm March of Dimes. This is where your body is constricting the blood vessels and clotting. C-Section Revision Surgery. It may prevent long term redness or bumpiness by hydrating the scar, Dr. Cangello says, "but you need to wear it 24/7." Let's just lay it out there: An emergency C-section isn't the dream outcome when you go into labor. 1 As a result, the rate is rising for cesarean scar defectthe presence of a "niche" at the site of cesarean delivery scarwith the reported prevalence between 24% and 70% in a random population of women with at least one cesarean delivery. It is best to treat a scar when it has just initially formed, and the skin has healed back together. However, I was pleasantly surprised. Getting plenty of rest: Healing takes a lot of energy, so make sure to get plenty of rest. towel first. Published 2017 Feb 17. doi:10.2147/IJWH.S98876. If youve often wondered why does my c section scar itch, this will help to reduce itching and discomfort. It requires a sizable incision in the area as doctors must reconnect the muscle, fascia, and skin with sutures, and occasionally staples. I was so sad after my first c-section, but now almost four years later, Im proud and embrace my story and journey.. There are no proven methods of removing keloid scars naturally. Let's discuss the c-section scar healing stages. You can use these products after the c-section wound is healed completely. Attached is a picture of my c-section scar four weeks postpartum with my 3rd c-section. Give yourself grace, be patient, and know that time heals all woundsin this case, literally! You can also use silicone scar removal sheets to facilitate wound healing and prevent hypertrophic or keloid (aka thick, raised scars). Call your doctor if you have warmth, redness, swelling, or oozing at the incision site. Massages can reduce C-section scar tissue formation and can help ensure a smooth, flat, pain-free, and supple scar, says Leslie Lo, DPT, a women's health physical therapist at Northwestern Memorial Physicians Group in Chicago. Its completely normal to have emotions around your childs birth and there is nothing wrong with you if you feel nervous about touching or looking at your scar, thinking about it, or if you still need time to process the birth itself and/or how your body has changed. As you heal, you will probably feel like your abdominal area is numb. If you're prone to either, talk to your doctor about prevention and treatment options. I planned for a vaginal birth all along; however, my dear daughter was breech at the 36-week growth scan, and I was scheduled for a c-section. It is important to keep an eye on your scar and see a specialist such as Dr. Miranda in Miami if you think you might have an infection. That was my only option, so I wasnt disappointed or shocked that things went that way like some mothers can be. I took this photo about four months postpartum. If you have metal staples, your doctor will remove them three to seven days after surgery. Doula vs. Midwife: Whats the Difference? If you have a classic abdominal incision, youll have either a classic uterine incision, or a low vertical incision if your baby is in an awkward position. Try to keep everything that you and your baby might need within reach. C-section scars are a form of cosmetic surgery, and as such they come with the same risks, benefits and side effects that any other form of cosmetic surgery does. You should clean the wound with soap and water every day to prevent infection. This type of incision is made in the skin above the pubic bone, and it curves up towards the belly button. Get medical help immediately if you notice: These are all signs of an infected C-section incision.. Infection not only puts your health at risk, but it can also make scarring worse. Silicone treatments. But you'll also be recovering from major abdominal surgery while dealing with typical postpartum issues such as engorged breasts, mood swings, and postpartum bleeding. Applying pressure to the wound: This helps to promote blood flow and prevent the formation of scar tissue. 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. Pregnancy After C-Section: How Long Should You Wait to Conceive? If you continue to use this site we will assume that you are happy with it. What should my c-section scar look like? You can find a STREAM practitioner, pelvic floor therapist, or even a massage therapist (especially if they specialize in abdominal massage) who can assist you with physical therapy and healing of your scar. C-section pain is caused by an overgrowth of scar tissue or irritation to the wound as it heals. 2018. Zoe Etkin, a motherhood coach and somatic bodyworker/scar tissue practitioner based in Memphis, TN and nationally online, explains: Scars are an incredibly smart thing the body does when it experiences trauma. In this case, our expertise is making things look beautiful." To Avoid Infection, Women Should Remember To: Get enough sleep and avoid heavy lifting or unnecessary physical exertion. In fact, according to March of Dimes, nearly 32% of all live births in the United States are delivered via this method each year. Keeping your incision site clean and protected can help you avoid infections. Hemostasis consists of the first 2 days. You can continue doing it until at least 12 weeks or if youre further out already, its truly never too late to start! 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. I have fully recovered and am forever grateful I listened to my body that night., Incision type: low transverseClosure: unknown. C-Section vs. 'Natural Birth': What's the Difference? Medical lasers can help soften old scars and get rid of raised scars. It might be itchy while it's healing. Keep your incision clean, and avoid scrubbing or otherwise irritating it. 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. We also love that the gel can be applied to all types of skin, is suitable for all ages, and is odorless and colorless. But with proper care and time, the pain should lessen. Caring for a C-section scar immediately after birth, Care for a C-section scar 2 weeks after birth, Care for a C-section scar 6 to 8 weeks after birth, Caring for a Cesarean scar the first year and beyond, Your guide to C-section recovery: Timeline, tips and what to expect as you heal, Nikki Hunter-Greenaway, nurse practitioner, lactation consultant and curriculum advisor at Major Care, My C-section scar is evidence that pain can fade, Your postpartum recovery kit: Feel your best after a C-section, 8 natural C-section recovery tips to help you feel better fast, motherhood coach and somatic bodyworker/scar tissue practitioner, 17 C-section recovery products you might not think of (but wont want to live without). If you have a C-section scar that other treatments have not helped, your doctor may recommend scar revision surgery. Other activities, like moderate exercise, may not be possible for up to six weeks after the surgery. Stages of C-section Scar Healing The healing process of any incision site can be broken down into three stages; the inflammatory stage, the proliferative stage, and the remodeling stage. 3. Compression is also amazing for reducing pain and swelling and protecting your incision area. Healing: It can take up to three months for it to fully heal. Some surgeons prefer using surgical staples because its a fast and simple method. A Cesarean scar happens when you deliver a child through a Cesarean section, also known as a C-section. Absorbs quickly. I was lucky. C-section recovery: What to expect. You should apply them for 10-15 minutes at a time, several times a day for a healed c section scar. Its about coming back to the site of something big that happened to our entire system, and giving it the love and care we deserve.. 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. Keep in mind that while its normal to have some numbness at the incision site, numbness typically improves within a few weeks. Your incision will be closed with either glue, stitches or staples. Physical therapy is another potential treatment. I did get golden staph in my c-section wound at five weeks postpartum, and it took three lots of antibiotics, three trips to ED, and about five weeks to heal. So you can expect some scarring after the incision heals. . 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. You may find that hospital-issued mesh panties feel best. The zen nutrients c section scar healing cream is ideal for accelerating surgery recovery time after acl, shoulder, knee, back, postpartum, c section, hysterectomy, liposuction, mastectomy, bariatric, breast augmentation, liposuction, plastic surgery, rhinoplasty and helps minimize scarring. I want to make sure that you are prepared and know what to expect during the healing process. What Are the Signs of Infection After a C-Section? How Should You Take Care of Your C-Section Scar? Take time to rest and let things heal before you get back to your daily routine. Int J Environ Res Public Health. 7300 SW 62nd PL, 3rd Floor This frittata is high in protein and rich in essential nutrients your body needs to support a growing baby. Some scars may appear bigger, thicker, or more raised than others, of course; however, they're rarely very obvious. All rights reserved. The second type is a vertical scar, which runs down the middle of the stomach. Both classic and bikini C-section incisions involve cutting some nerves in your abdomen. If youve had a C-section, your incision will go through a period of initial healing before it turns into a scar. In the first few weeks after the procedure, you may experience pain, bleeding, numbness, and cramping. Typically, a C-section incision is about 4 to 5 inches long and performed right at the bikini line. (1) Inflammatory Stage: The first stage is called the inflammatory stage and it lasts for the first few days after the c-section. Our priority is to provide you with top-of-the-line care, through a network of dedicated people you can trust, while making your experience simple and convenient. If you must go outside, be sure to use sunscreen and cover the scar with clothing. A C-section is necessary when youre unable to deliver vaginally. C-section scars are usually low on the abdomen, below the waistband of your underwear. As it heals, it might be lumpy, feel tight, or develop a c-section shelf. "But an OB's concern is delivering a healthy babythat's their expertise. Continue daily until normal sensation returns. Among late cesarean delivery complications, cesarean scar defect (CSD) is the most common but also the most neglected. After 4 weeks postpartum, you can move over the scar itself with the textures, repeating the process. They can help you manage any pain or other physical complications you may be experiencing. After your C-section, you should watch for problems like: Infection. Your c-section scar might be painful at first. For example, you could use cotton, silk, felt and something rougher like a paper towel or sandpaper. After about six weeks, your C-section scar will be healedmeaning you'll likely be able to resume all regular activity without disturbing it. to voice your concerns. You may lose feeling in the area of your wound . Pat your incision dry with a clean towel when you're done. Some women feel self-conscious about their scars and may feel like they are not as beautiful as they used to be. But if it doesnt, talk to your doctor. As a c-section mama, I often feel alone when looking at my scar or feeling the sensitivity and being reminded of the terrifying surgery I endured awake to birth my baby so thank you. Pushing yourself too hard can slow down the healing process or even cause damage. Take pain relievers. Scar revision. How New Parents Can Ease Wrist Pain From Holding Their Baby, Pregnancy After C-Section: How Long to Wait for Conception, Testing for Ectopic Pregnancy: How Doctors Make a Diagnosis, What to Do When You're 40 Weeks Pregnant With No Signs of Labor. Thursday: 8:30am 5:30pm A, Cesarean deliveries (C-sections) are sometimes medically necessary, but the recovery time is slightly longer than a vaginal birth. Your C-section scar will be covered with a paper tape-like product known as Steri-Strips. If you have Steri-Strips (small, white, sticky bandages) directly over your incision, don't try to wash them off. As it heals, your scar will narrow to about 1/16 inch wide. Most C-section scars heal within a matter of weeksor months. Usually, your scar will become thinner and flatter and will turn either white or the color of your skin. These are your battle scars, Warrior Mom. Heres everything you need to know about caring for your C-section scar, from immediate care to more advanced postpartum care. As tempting as it may be to try to get back to business as usual, remember that you are still healing from major abdominal surgery, so continue to rest and take it easy. Hughes also assured readers that the photo "represents so much more than a C-section scar" as it . Both incisions are about 4 to 6 inches, and a scar will form once the wound heals. Some clinical studies have shown that onion extract used orally or on the skin might possibly be effective in improving the appearance of keloid scars and reducing itchiness and discomfort. If you arent comfortable being in contact with your scar, it may be helpful to work with a practitioner who can work on it for you. How to do it? 1.3K. Score: 4.7/5 (59 votes) . If you have a bikini cut in your abdomen, your surgeon will also make a bikini cut uterine incision, called a low transverse incision.