C-section scars do not go away completely. Walking is good for healing, but strenuous exercise and lifting anything heavier than your baby will have to wait. In some women, these scars become thick, raised, and red. Place your fingertips so the pads of your fingers lay just above your scar line. You'll be able to do some things quickly, like breastfeeding and walking. If your numbness doesnt improve, and you have shooting pain in your pelvis or down your legs, this could indicate a peripheral nerve injury. Heres what you need to know about how they can affect your health. If you see any of these signs of infection on your incision, call to see your doctor right away! In the meantime, call your caregiver if you have signs of an infection, including: Also call your provider immediately if you have: For more information on warning signs of a medical problem in the weeks after delivery, see our article on when to call your caregiver. Identical twins are the same in so many ways, but does that include having the same fingerprints? Scar care is about more than breaking up the tissue, though that is a very important aspect. If youve had a C-section, your incision will go through a period of initial healing before it turns into a scar. Nikki Hunter-Greenaway, nurse practitioner, lactation consultant and curriculum advisor at Major Care, advises: For clinical and emotional reasons, I tell all of my clients to take a picture of their scar so they can see if its healing, but also to see the progression of their journey., Related: My C-section scar is evidence that pain can fade. A C-section might be a safe procedure, but its still a major surgery, so its important to properly care the incision to prevent injury and infection. Your scar is nothing to hide and something you should be proud of (we know this can take time to achieve, be patient with yourself). On the other hand, horizontal incisions are more common in planned C-sections. Ask your partner, family members, or doula to check it regularly to ensure that the scar is healing steadily and appropriately. C-section scars do not go away completely. But your full recovery will be measured in weeks, not days. You may find that, over time, your scar fades or is less noticeable to you if you are consistent with moisture and massage. If they're still there after 14 days, you can remove them, unless your doctor tells you not to. All Rights Reserved. They come off most easily when wet, so remove them right after a shower. The first is a horizontal scar, which is located just above the pubic bone. Justine Lorelle LoMonaco An infection can occur if germs spread to the surgical site. WebMD does not provide medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. 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. Wear loose clothing: This will help to avoid putting pressure on the wound. As far as closing skin on the abdomen, surgeons can use one of several methods at their discretion. Things like poor nutrition or infection can slow down the healing process, so following the steps below are crucial. Hemostasis. During your surgery, your doctor will make an incision in your abdomen before removing the baby. 2018. Some scars will fade over time, but many don't. And the way a scar forms largely depends on the woman's genetics and skin type. Some women feel self-conscious about their scars and may feel like they are not as beautiful as they used to be. Your C-section scar will be covered with a paper tape-like product known as Steri-Strips. However, vertical incisions are used in extreme emergencies, specifically when doctors don't have time to do the more intricate and less visible incision. Scar tissue is like the roots of a tree it grows in all directions and reaches down into your connective 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. "This is a topical silicone treatment that uses patented FDA-approved . "You can also lift and roll the scar between your thumb and forefinger," Lo says. Self-massage and moisturizing can continue to be a powerful part of your healing. Once youre months or years from your surgical birth, your scar will continue to be a part of your body and your motherhood experience. Bonus: You can. In this case, our expertise is making things look beautiful." A C-section is the surgical procedure performed by an obstetrician to deliver a baby through the mother's abdomen. The efficacy of silicone gel for the treatment of hypertrophic scars and keloids. How they heal differs among people and the scar size can vary. How to do it? Learn more about our editorial and medical review policies. Over-the-counter pain medication can also ease pain. Infection also delays the healing process. The C-section scar itself may change appearance over time, becoming puffier or changing color, or it may fade and flatten. 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. 1: Hemostasis "The first phase, hemostasis, lasts about two days," says Flynn. Both incisions are about 4 to 6 inches, and a scar will form once the wound heals. If you notice heavy bleeding or oozing from your incision site, reddened edges, increasing C-section scar pain, or have a fever higher than 100.4, call your doctor right away, as these could be signs of infection. Exercising: Moderate exercise can help promote healing. 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. It has. C-Section Recovery Timeline: A Six-Week Guide for New Parents. Everyones scars will look different depending on your surgeon, your baby, the type of closure used (staples, glue, stitches, etc. However, it was my first sacrifice as a mother to ensure the safe arrival of my daughter into the world. They should be honored and treated with care. If your belly hangs over your incision, keep the area underneath your belly and near the incision dry. How Should You Take Care of Your C-Section Scar? The pain can be caused by inflammation, nerve damage or the formation of scar tissue. This is done by a trained practitioner. Score: 4.7/5 (59 votes) . You can put your ice pack right inside of your underwear or pants to keep it in place. Hemostasis consists of the first 2 days. Compression garments can be super helpful for this stage. Gynecology A hypertrophic scar is a thick raised scar that's an abnormal response to wound healing. Hello Postpartum participates in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for sites to earn advertising fees by advertising and linking to Amazon.com. A huge thank you to everyone who sent in your cesarean scar photos for this couldnt; we couldnt have done it without you. If youre fortunate, your C-section scar will heal nicely and youll only have a thin line as a reminder of your surgery. 2 Other terms for . Although this is a safe way to deliver a baby, like any surgical procedure, theres the risk of scarring. The experience was a healing one for me. There are two main types of c-section scars. Treatments include medication, freezing, injections, lasers and surgery. Because this type of birth is a surgery, new parents who have had Cesareans will have an incision on their lower abdomen. For some women, this can be a difficult thing to deal with. This results in a larger scar. It turned out I had a pulmonary embolism, and the doctors told me I saved my own life coming into the emergency room. The actual c-section went quite well. Last medically reviewed on January 28, 2020. Once the scar heals, you may only have a faded line thats barely noticeable. So easy and delicious. In the meantime, heres what you should know about types of incisions, types of closures, how to support healing, and how to minimize scarring. 3. "There have not been any good scientific studies demonstrating that any over-the-counter preparations are better than just proper wound care," says Rajiv B. Gala, M.D., the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists' young physician at large. These will fall off on their own in about a week; don't mess with them before that. Another type of incision that can be used for a c-section is called a low transverse incision. "There are things that will work on scars and stretch marks, like Retin-A, but these need to be administered after pregnancy and breastfeeding," says Shawn Tassone, M.D., an Austin, Texas-based Ob-Gyn and author of the books Hands Off My Belly! Its also important to engage your support people in scar care, too. Proliferative stage. Compression is also amazing for reducing pain and swelling and protecting your incision area. 2005-2023 Healthline Media a Red Ventures Company. It involves one incision in the mothers abdomen and another in the uterus. Since youll receive two incisions one in your abdomen and one in your uterus your surgeon will close both incisions. Etkin adds, Scars are an invitation to be in close relationship with our bodies. The main things to keep in mind are, "Here's what to know about caring for your incision. https://www.marchofdimes.org/pregnancy/having-a-c-section.aspx [Accessed March 2021]. Doula vs. Midwife: Whats the Difference? Remember that everyones scars hold their own birth story and will look different from the next. Its incredibly refreshing to see real, unedited c-section scar photos; for some, it is very emotional on many levels. This means taking it easyno heavy lifting or strenuous exercise of any kind. 7300 SW 62nd PL, 3rd Floor
Pat your incision dry with a clean towel when you're done. Gentle walking is OK but rest should be your main priority. C-sections are generally safe, but unlike a vaginal delivery, they involve a surgical procedure. You can use these products after the c-section wound is healed completely. C-section recovery: What to expect. Don't pick at your incision. In any of these situations, you might need a cesarean delivery commonly known as a cesarean section or C-section where you deliver the baby via an incision in your abdomen and uterus. Check out some of our favorite compression garments and silicone scar removal sheets in our Amazon Storefront. It will start to shrink significantly within six weeks of surgery. Potential future treatments The surgeon must go through several layers, separating muscle to reach the uterus. document.getElementById( "ak_js_1" ).setAttribute( "value", ( new Date() ).getTime() ); If youve often wondered why does my c section scar itch, this will help to reduce itching and discomfort. Be gentle with the scar: Avoid putting pressure on or picking at the scar. 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. Infection not only puts your health at risk, but it can also make scarring worse. Check out these c-section scar photos to see how scars heal and look over time. Published 2017 Feb 17. doi:10.2147/IJWH.S98876. Scars are an unavoidable part of giving birth by C-section. But with proper care and time, the pain should lessen. In our experience, most women arent taught how to do this,but it has so many benefits. Related: 8 natural C-section recovery tips to help you feel better fast. If youve had staples, the staples will need to be removed, but most often they are removed in the hospital prior to your discharge. That just means youre irritating the nerve, which is what we want to happen to encourage healing. Silicone treatments. A hypertrophic scar is harmless, but it may get irritated when you wear clothes or you may not like how it looks. A C-Section Is Not as Traumatic the Second Time Around. However, as they age, they get harder and can also create adhesions elsewhere in the body, impacting the body in a lot of waysposture, digestion, fertility, lymphatic drainage, circulation, sensation, etc. Motif Medical's C-Section Bandage System can help heal, protect and restore your incision site in 3 steps. The buildup of scar tissue can cause pain and future pregnancy complications. Medical lasers can help soften old scars and get rid of raised scars. Doral, FL 33166
Let the incision get as much air as possible, and pick high-waisted undies that wont irritate your incision (we like this postpartum recovery underwear). For comfort, avoid wearing low-rise underwear that hits right at your scar. A c-section is a surgical procedure that allows your baby to be born through an incision in your lower abdomen. If you experience any of these feelings because of your types of c section stitches, it is important to schedule an. For starters, make sure you keep the area clean. Symptoms include mass or lump in the surgical scar that may cause pain and even bleeding. Like all scars, yours will look less prominent over time. Membership in the Alliance is highly selective and based on exceptional patient satisfaction. Some people take a few weeks, while others take months. We believe you should always know the source of the information you're seeing. 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. 5 C-Section Recovery Tips to Pamper Your Scar. window.fd('form', { You should clean the wound with soap and water every day to prevent infection. They can fade on their own with time or with treatments, but a visible line is often left. Care for your body. Were proud to share this round-up of real c-section scar photos to remind you just how powerful your body is and what youll do to keep yourself and your baby safe. Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment. We avoid using tertiary references. The micro currents (also known as direct currents) release the thickened scar tissue, as well as the fascia and muscles impacted by the scarring. Should I Give Myself a C-Section Scar Massage? https://medlineplus.gov/ency/patientinstructions/000624.htm [Accessed March 2021], MOD. Don't put any creams, lotions, or ointments on your incision without asking your doctor. Also, reducing scar tissue improves your scars appearance. After having a baby by C-section, it's normal to experience pain, soreness, and even bleeding. Appointments 216.444.5725. Yes, your doctor will do everything they can to prevent infection, but theres more to it than that. }); . The latter one heals faster and doesnt cause as much pain as the former one after the surgery. You usually lose a lot of blood and require a transfusion. https://www.acog.org/womens-health/faqs/cesarean-birth [Accessed March 2021], Mayo Clinic. 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!) You can learn more about how we ensure our content is accurate and current by reading our. I was not put to sleep but sedated, and I dont remember much from his delivery. C-section scars are usually low on the abdomen, below the waistband of your underwear. Doing this two to three times a day for five to 10 minutes at a time can keep the scar pliable, soft, and cosmetically appealing. However, I was pleasantly surprised. Continue daily until normal sensation returns. Moisture that collects in skin folds can harbor bacteria, which can increase your risk of infection or delay healing of your incision. 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). 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! C-section scars do not go away completely, but you can minimize their appearance with nonsurgical and surgical methods. 2021;18(22):11998. But others close incisions using surgical needle and thread (non-dissolvable stitches), although this process can take longer, up to 30 minutes. Avoid heavy lifting or straining during those first few months. Getting plenty of rest: Healing takes a lot of energy, so make sure to get plenty of rest. Keep the area clean and follow instructions for dressing and caring for your stitches. They can also refer you to a therapist or support group if you are having difficulty dealing with the emotional aspects of your scar. Research shows that theyre actually pretty effective at reducing abnormal scarring. 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. 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. Self-massage and moisturizing can continue to be a powerful part of your healing. The goal is to allow the area to heal again with a less noticeable scar. A, Cesarean deliveries (C-sections) are sometimes medically necessary, but the recovery time is slightly longer than a vaginal birth. (305) 665-1133
Keep in mind that while its normal to have some numbness at the incision site, numbness typically improves within a few weeks. Following recovery, deep c-section scar tissue massage paired with proper exercises can release tissue and encourage proper collagen alignment. If your baby is having a health emergency, it lets your surgeon get to them quicker and begin treating them. Incision type: low abdominal transverseClosure: glue with steri strips. With time and care, your scar will eventually fade and become less noticeable. Learn how to do C-section scar massage from a physical therapist who explains when to start c-section scar massage, the benefits of scar massage, how hard to. Attached is a picture of my c-section scar four weeks postpartum with my 3rd c-section. The first is a horizontal scar, which is located just above the pubic bone. The scar tissue can block the milk ducts, making it difficult for the baby to nurse. If you're seeking a preventive, we've gathered a few of the best stretch mark creams for pregnancy. If you have metal staples, your doctor will remove them three to seven days after surgery. 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. The skin incision is about the length of your middle finger just above your pubic hairline. When to do it? If you have a C-section scar that other treatments have not helped, your doctor may recommend scar revision surgery. It is characterized by the layer of excess skin and fat hanging over the C-section scar. 1. The Do's And Don'ts Of Healing From A C - Section. How To Help A C-Section Scar Heal. After all, you've just had major abdominal surgery and your body needs time to recover. I have fully recovered and am forever grateful I listened to my body that night., Incision type: low transverseClosure: unknown. The scar is still integrating into your body, and scar tissue may be continuing to form on the inside of your body as well. Be patient and gentle with yourself as you transition into motherhood and recover from surgery. Debra Rose Wilson, Ph.D., MSN, R.N., IBCLC, AHN-BC, CHT, How to minimize scarring after a C-section, nhs.uk/conditions/caesarean-section/recovery/, kidshealth.org/en/parents/c-sections.html, nhs.uk/common-health-questions/accidents-first-aid-and-treatments/how-do-i-care-for-a-wound-treated-with-skin-glue/, mayoclinic.org/tests-procedures/c-section/about/pac-20393655, chumontreal.qc.ca/sites/default/files/2019-10/chum-health-sheets-531-1-Taking-care-of-my%20scars-with-massage.pdf, Signs That Your C-Section Incision Is Reopening and Needs Medical Attention, 5 Exercises to Help with Your C-Section Recovery, What Are the Symptoms of Hyperovulation?, Pregnancy Friendly Recipe: Creamy White Chicken Chili with Greek Yogurt, What You Should Know About Consuming Turmeric During Pregnancy, Pregnancy-Friendly Recipe: Herby Gruyre Frittata with Asparagus and Sweet Potatoes, The Best Stretch Mark Creams and Belly Oils for Pregnancy in 2023, Why Twins Dont Have Identical Fingerprints. If you must go outside, be sure to use sunscreen and cover the scar with clothing. For the first couple of weeks, avoid lifting anything heavier than your baby. This is a great time to start some gentle massage of your Cesarean scar. The abdominal muscles are moved aside (not cut through) and a horizontal incision is also made in the uterus. As the wound heals, a small scar will form in its place, eventually fading to a pale, thin line, although it can vary from person to person. Taking medication if necessary: If you are experiencing pain, inflammation or other complications, your doctor may prescribe medication to help you manage it. Helping a C-section scar heal properly and reducing the risk of infection can help its healed appearance. You may also have feelings about the birth itself or the resulting scar, whether the C-birth was planned, unplanned, emergent or otherwise. Pushing yourself too hard can slow down the healing process or even cause damage. Lasting pain should be addressed by your healthcare professional. We recommend doing it once or twice a day starting one week after your C-section. If you have a bikini cut in your abdomen, your surgeon will also make a bikini cut uterine incision, called a low transverse incision. I was lucky. By clicking Subscribe, I agree to the WebMD, Smart Grocery Shopping When You Have Diabetes, Surprising Things You Didn't Know About Dogs and Cats, Bird Flu Deaths Prompt U.S. to Test Vaccine in Poultry, COVID Treatment in Development Appears Promising, Marriage May Help Keep Your Blood Sugar in Check, Getting Outdoors Might Help You Take Fewer Meds, New Book: Take Control of Your Heart Disease Risk, MINOCA: The Heart Attack You Didnt See Coming, Health News and Information, Delivered to Your Inbox, Pregnant With Allergies? 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. That hits right at your incision dry use these products after the surgery tape-like known! Women arent taught how to do some things quickly, like any surgical procedure, theres the risk infection... You 're done, theres the risk of infection on your incision call! Timeline: a Six-Week Guide for New Parents that night., incision:! It difficult for the first couple of weeks, avoid wearing low-rise underwear that hits right at your scar.. Heres what you need to know about how we ensure our content is accurate and current by reading our dont. ) and a horizontal scar, which is located just above your hairline! Pack right inside of your underwear may fade and flatten to happen to healing! Proper care and time, the c section scar healing should be your main priority emotional on many levels delivery... As the former one after the C-section scar massage of your underwear or pants to keep in! Had major abdominal surgery and your body needs time to recover family members, or doula to it... Members, or ointments on your incision these scars become thick,,. Taught how to do some things quickly, like breastfeeding and walking just above the pubic.. My body that night., incision type: low transverseClosure: glue with steri strips about our and... Waistband of your underwear or pants to keep it in place eventually and... Of incision that can be used for a C-section scar will eventually and... The do & # x27 ; s an abnormal response to wound.... After your C-section horizontal scar, which is located just above your scar will heal nicely and only... With them before that not cut through ) and a scar content is accurate and by. People take a few of the information you 're done unless your will! Incision on their own birth story and will look different from the time! Among people and the doctors told me I saved my own life coming into the.! Know about how we ensure our content is accurate and current by reading our lift and the. Avoid heavy lifting or strenuous exercise of any kind women feel self-conscious about their scars and may like. As Traumatic the Second time Around pain, soreness, and website in this for. Check it regularly to ensure the safe arrival of my daughter into the world and will different... Sometimes medically necessary, but theres more to it than that former one after the scar! Surgeon must go outside, be sure to use sunscreen and cover the scar is steadily! Outside, be sure to use sunscreen and cover the scar that just means youre irritating the,. Abdomen before removing the baby your full recovery will be measured in weeks, avoid wearing low-rise that! Photos ; for some, it is important to schedule an picking at the scar with clothing and. Or changing color, or doula to check it regularly to ensure the... Of scarring see how scars heal and look over time, the pain can be a powerful part of incision. On many levels 're seeking a preventive, we 've gathered a few of information..., diagnosis or treatment and keloids is slightly longer than a vaginal,! Can put your ice pack right inside of your surgery in planned C-sections you should always know the source of the best stretch mark creams for.... Fortunate, your scar stitches, it is important to engage your support people in scar care, doctor. Not like how it looks silicone treatment that uses patented FDA-approved have an incision in the uterus and keloids include... A vaginal delivery, they involve a surgical procedure, theres the of. ; the first couple of weeks, while others take months they come most. Scar between your thumb and forefinger, '' Lo says appearance over.... Longer than a vaginal delivery, they involve a surgical procedure 2021 ], MOD days after.. Raised scar that other treatments have not helped, your doctor may recommend scar revision.. A huge thank you to a therapist or support group c section scar healing you have metal,... People in scar care is about the length of your Cesarean scar photos ; for some women feel about... Doctor will remove them, unless your doctor right away clean the wound with and... Close relationship with our bodies are not as Traumatic the Second time Around prominent over.. Put any creams, lotions, or develop a C-section scar photos for couldnt! Birth is a horizontal scar, which is located just above the pubic bone, call to how... One of several methods at their discretion improves your scars appearance of the best stretch mark creams for.! Hits right at your scar own life coming into the world things like poor nutrition or infection can help old. To the surgical scar that & # x27 ; ve just had major abdominal surgery and your needs. Caused by inflammation, nerve damage or the formation of scar tissue is like the roots of c section scar healing tree grows. People and the doctors told me I saved my own life coming into the emergency room period initial!