Cesarean birth. 2005-2023 Healthline Media a Red Ventures Company. They can also refer you to a therapist or support group if you are having difficulty dealing with the emotional aspects of your scar. It'll look red or pink for several months but eventually it fades to a pale, flat, thin line. But sometimes, surgery is needed to repair the damage. This can lead to low self-esteem and depression. The scar is still integrating into your body, and scar tissue may be continuing to form on the inside of your body as well. Let's discuss the c-section scar healing stages. You might wonder, is my scar normal? or what do other peoples scars look like? because your doctor doesnt show photos of real cesarean birth scars before or after birth. 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.. But others close incisions using surgical needle and thread (non-dissolvable stitches), although this process can take longer, up to 30 minutes. (n.d.). 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. 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. Motif Medical's C-Section Bandage System can help heal, protect and restore your incision site in 3 steps. 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. To promote healing: Take it easy. Scar tissue is like the roots of a tree it grows in all directions and reaches down into your connective tissue. Heres everything you need to know about caring for your C-section scar, from immediate care to more advanced postpartum care. It occurs after a cesarean birth (c-section). 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. If you have metal staples, your doctor will remove them three to seven days after surgery. Scar care is about more than breaking up the tissue, though that is a very important aspect. C-section scars can also cause body image issues. This type of incision is made in the skin below the navel, and it curves out towards the side of the body. BabyCenter's editorial team is committed to providing the most helpful and trustworthy pregnancy and parenting information in the world. As with any major surgery, a C-section can affect your health for weeks and months afterward. Inflammatory stage. You will want to think of the abdomen as having 3 layers, though there are many more, but we are simplifying things here. Both incisions are about 4 to 6 inches, and a scar will form once the wound heals. Esthetics In most cases, you'll recover easily and quickly (within 6 to 8 weeks) and have just a small scar. Justine Lorelle LoMonaco All Rights Reserved. This is because they are a reminder of a traumatic experience. The physical scar from your Cesarean is just one aspect of healing from this type of birth. In fact, according to March of Dimes, nearly 32% of all live births in the United States are delivered via this method each year. This can cause fever, chills, redness, pain and drainage from the wound. If your numbness doesnt improve, and you have shooting pain in your pelvis or down your legs, this could indicate a peripheral nerve injury. For the first couple of weeks, avoid lifting anything heavier than your baby. You may find that, over time, your scar fades or is less noticeable to you if you are consistent with moisture and massage. 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). Surgeons apply glue over the incision, which provides a protective covering. Appointments 216.444.5725. And, while it may sound intense, a c-section scar revision surgery isn't nearly as painful or . Flattens raised scars. If the wound itches, try to resist the urge to scratch it. Scar tissue can also form around c-section scars. We recommend doing it once or twice a day starting one week after your C-section. Avoid heavy lifting or straining during those first few months. If youre left with a visible line, here are a few tips to improve the appearance of a C-section scar. Since 1970, the United States Cesarean rate has steadily climbed from 5% of births to over 30%, where it has remained since 2005. The baby is delivered by emergency c-section, and the uterus is repaired. Your doctor may recommend monthly steroid injections so you can get the look you want., Laser therapy. Typically, a C-section incision is about 4 to 5 inches long and performed right at the bikini line. Glue was used, and all the doctors and nurses say my OB did a beautiful job., This was my second elective c-section birth.. Keep in mind, however, that not everyone is concerned about the look of their C-section scar. C-Section Recovery Timeline: A Six-Week Guide for New Parents. To Avoid Infection, Women Should Remember To: Get enough sleep and avoid heavy lifting or unnecessary physical exertion. But in some cases, the body overreacts to the healing process and develops scars that don't heal as smoothly. 2020. This means taking it easyno heavy lifting or strenuous exercise of any kind. I was distraught and scared due to the sudden change in my well-thought-out birth plan. 10 C-Section Recovery Tips. Still, even if you do everything right, you might experience complications while you're healing. The C-section scar itself may change appearance over time, becoming puffier or changing color, or it may fade and flatten. Medical lasers can help soften old scars and get rid of raised scars. Keep your incision clean, and avoid scrubbing or otherwise irritating it. If you have a C-section scar that other treatments have not helped, your doctor may recommend scar revision surgery. Another type of incision that can be used for a c-section is called a low transverse incision. Heat therapy can ease pain and soreness after a C-section. It is important to listen to your body and not push yourself too hard, as this could cause more pain or damage. During your surgery, your doctor will make an incision in your abdomen before removing the baby. The color will persist for about six months before fading to a less noticeable whitish line, says Dr. Tassone. 8405 NW 53rd Street, Suite E102
J Obstet Gynaecol. 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. This can cause fever, chills, redness, pain and drainage from the wound. About 1 in 3 women in the United States deliver their babies via C-section. Keep in mind that while its normal to have some numbness at the incision site, numbness typically improves within a few weeks. (305) 666-0258, Obstetrics 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 involves one incision in the mothers abdomen and another in the uterus. If you have a bikini cut in your abdomen, your surgeon will also make a bikini cut uterine incision, called a low transverse incision. They should be honored and treated with care. The scar tissue can block the milk ducts, making it difficult for the baby to nurse. Scar tissue desensitization can help reduce sensitivity and bring back sensation to this area. Do not pick at the wound: Why does my c section scar itch? Be gentle with the scar: Avoid putting pressure on or picking at the scar. Steps 1 and 2 are recommended for early recovery and are often covered by insurance (check your coverage through Aeroflow Breastpumps). Infection not only puts your health at risk, but it can also make scarring worse. 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. But your full recovery will be measured in weeks, not days. However, I was pleasantly surprised. The doctor highly recommended not even messing with the incision or derma bond. Learn more about the Alliance >. C-sections, or cesarean births, are surgical procedures that involve making incisions in the uterus and abdomen to deliver a baby, the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG). 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. This is the perfect thing to do as you nurse or feed your baby. Although your incision is healed, that doesnt mean you wont still have some tenderness (or sometimes, numbness) in the area of your scar. A cesarean section (C-section) is a surgery to deliver a baby and results in a scar across the mother's abdomen. The buildup of scar tissue can cause pain and future pregnancy complications. C-section scars are surprisingly small. This type of scar is less common & can be more difficult to heal. 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. If you have glue over your incision, you can remove any remaining glue after two or three weeks. All rights reserved. Having a c-section. After about six weeks, your C-section scar will be healedmeaning you'll likely be able to resume all regular activity without disturbing it. Miami, FL 33143
WebMD does not provide medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. The stages of C-section scar healing can be broken down into four clear steps. The scar tissue can block the milk ducts, making it difficult for the baby to nurse. (305) 665-1133
I had my son Ruben on the 30th of June 2022 via elective c-section because I have Crohns Disease. Inflammatory stage During the first few days after your C-section, your body will be in the inflammatory stage. Less commonly, If the damage to your uterus is extensive and the bleeding can't be controlled, you'll need a hysterectomy. As it heals, your scar will narrow to about 1/16 inch wide. Thursday: 8:30am 5:30pm That means you can use it to heal scars virtually anywhere, including on the face, with total discretion. It is important to keep an eye on your scar and see a specialist such as. There are two main types of c-section scars. I want to make sure that you are prepared and know what to expect during the healing process. Avoid lifting anything heavier than your baby for the first 6 weeks or as directed by your doctor. You will have a scar but this will fade over time. So our goal is to get the tissue moving in all directions thats where scar mobilization comes in. 1997-2023 BabyCenter, LLC, a Ziff Davis company. If you have tape covering your incision, you can apply an ice pack directly to your incision. 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. We recommend icing every 2-3 hours for fifteen minutes at a time for the first five weeks after a C-section. Your diet should include plenty of fruits, vegetables and whole grains. C-sections are generally safe, but unlike a vaginal delivery, they involve a surgical procedure. It also means you'll need to be more aware of what you can and can't do as your body heals. Recovery time is about three to four weeks, says David Cangello, M.D., who's in private practice in New York City and an attending plastic surgeon at Lenox Hill Hospital and NewYork-Presbyterian Hospital. You can learn more about how we ensure our content is accurate and current by reading our. Some women also form thick, irregular raised scars at the incision site such as hypertrophic scars or keloids. . I was not put to sleep but sedated, and I dont remember much from his delivery. C-section consists of two incisions, one in the abdomen and then one in the uterus, to remove the baby. Related: Your postpartum recovery kit: Feel your best after a C-section. But with proper care and time, the pain should lessen. https://www.acog.org/womens-health/faqs/cesarean-birth [Accessed March 2021], Mayo Clinic. (And, if you are reading this, you probably do too.) If youve had a C-section, your incision will go through a period of initial healing before it turns into a scar. About two weeks after birth, you should not be feeling as much pain and tenderness around your scar and you should see much less redness. If youve had staples, the staples will need to be removed, but most often they are removed in the hospital prior to your discharge. Place your fingertips so the pads of your fingers lay just above your scar line. The efficacy of silicone gel for the treatment of hypertrophic scars and keloids. To keep it clean, use just water or very mild soap but avoid vigorous scrubbing. We avoid using tertiary references. and Spiritual Pregnancy. Incision type: low abdominal transverseClosure: glue with steri strips. Necrotising fasciitis - the infection begins to attack healthy body tissues. For comfort, avoid wearing low-rise underwear that hits right at your scar. Founded by new mom and self-care author Carley Schweet, Hello Postpartum aims to help fill in the gaps in postpartum care and support. 1.3K. The pouch (also called a uterine niche) develops when the c-section incision (cut) doesn't heal completely. How Should You Take Care of Your C-Section Scar? If you experience any of these feelings because of your types of c section stitches, it is important to schedule an. Another option is to close the wound with surgical glue. Rest when possible. Moving around, bending, and twisting can put stress on your incision, making it heal slower and potentially scar more heavily. Eat well and stay hydrated! The c-section surgery is a significant risk factor. 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). Once a C-section scar is well-healed, usually around six weeks postpartum, you can treat the scar directly to help break up adhesions and increase the mobility of the tissues. For starters, make sure you keep the area clean. After 4 weeks postpartum, you can move over the scar itself with the textures, repeating the process. Your scar might be barely noticeable and fade to a thin line. Pushing yourself too hard can slow down the healing process or even cause damage. They can help you manage any pain or other physical complications you may be experiencing. Like any major wound, your C-section incision will go through a period of healing before it turns into a scar. Cesarean delivery is one of the most common surgical procedures in women, with rates of 30% or more in the United States. Both classic and bikini C-section incisions involve cutting some nerves in your abdomen. Do your best to rest as much as possible and ask for help so you aren't trying to handle meals, housework, visits, and caring for other children during your postpartum recovery period. You may see your doctor for an incision check one to two weeks after leaving the hospital, and you'll have a complete checkup in four to six weeks after delivery. That was my only option, so I wasnt disappointed or shocked that things went that way like some mothers can be. However, it was my first sacrifice as a mother to ensure the safe arrival of my daughter into the world. For some women, this can be a difficult thing to deal with. A Keloid scar forms from abnormal healing and extends beyond the original boundaries of the wound. A Cesarean scar happens when you deliver a child through a Cesarean section, also known as a C-section. Expecting and Empowered. My first was after PPROM at 36 weeks and a baby that would not tolerate labor. It might be itchy while it's healing. Proliferative stage. Check out some of our favorite compression garments and silicone scar removal sheets in our Amazon Storefront. Some people take a few weeks, while others take months. C-section scars can be a source of physical and emotional pain for many women. Try to keep everything that you and your baby might need within reach. Following recovery, deep c-section scar tissue massage paired with proper exercises can release tissue and encourage proper collagen alignment. Identical twins are the same in so many ways, but does that include having the same fingerprints? Wear loose clothing: This will help to avoid putting pressure on the wound. Most C-section scars heal within a matter of weeksor months. Other organs in the reproduction realm that may also form adhesions can be the . Usually, your scar will become thinner and flatter and will turn either white or the color of your skin. Heres what you need to know about how they can affect your health. Build a little basket of fabrics to keep near your nursing supplies for easy access. Heres what to look for and what to do if you think your C-section incision is opening. Etkin adds, Scars are an invitation to be in close relationship with our bodies. Eat well so your body has the right nutrients for healing and creating healthy tissues. Steri-Strips should fall off in about two weeks. In some women, these scars become thick, raised, and red. When creating and updating content, we rely on credible sources: respected health organizations, professional groups of doctors and other experts, and published studies in peer-reviewed journals. You can take a shower with the strips on and pat your incision dry after with a clean towel. An infection can occur if germs spread to the surgical site. 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? Hyperovulation has few symptoms, if any. Pat your incision dry with a clean towel when you're done. How they heal differs among people and the scar size can vary. If you're seeking a preventive, we've gathered a few of the best stretch mark creams for pregnancy. Infection is another possible complication of c-section scars. You may find that you still have a bit of pain from time to time, and numbness is also common. Last medically reviewed on January 28, 2020. 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. Self-massage and moisturizing can continue to be a powerful part of your healing. U.S. National Library of Medicine. The surgeon will make an abdominal incision, and then a uterine incision to remove the baby. You may also have feelings about the birth itself or the resulting scar, whether the C-birth was planned, unplanned, emergent or otherwise. Compression is also amazing for reducing pain and swelling and protecting your incision area. Sometimes doctors will use adhesive strips that will fall off after a few weeks. Symptoms include mass or lump in the surgical scar that may cause pain and even bleeding. Hypertrophic scars are thickened, raised scars that can be itchy and painful. On darker skin, it may fade to a brown or white line. Typically, are three different types of cesarean incisions: In general, your scar should not ooze pus or bleed. Infection is another possible complication of c-section scars. I was set on a VBAC for my second birth, but after therapy and lots of soul searching, I realized that I just needed a non-traumatic delivery, and for me, that was a repeat c-section. Cotton is a good choice as its soft and breathable. Your incision will probably feel a lot better after the first week, though it may be tender for much longer. A C-section is necessary when youre unable to deliver vaginally. Mastitis, a condition that causes breast infection, is also more common in women who have c-section scars. And although the integrity of the scar may be intact, you may still note that it has turned a reddish-purpleish color. It is important to be patient and let your body heal naturally. Home / Health & Wellness / Women's Health. I was so sad after my first c-section, but now almost four years later, Im proud and embrace my story and journey.. to voice your concerns. You should clean the wound with soap and water every day to prevent infection. This is the most common type of c-section scar. I had a hard time around five weeks postpartum where the incision had some abnormal dryness and redness that I couldnt get an answer what it was. That said, in rare cases, doctors make a vertical incision from below mom's belly button to the pubic bone. C-section recovery: What to expect. Silicone has been shown to help reduce the appearance of scars over time. 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. Another important note: This is also the point where you should be keeping an eye out for infection. It's essential to approach your scar carefully and make sure you know to take care of it. Things like poor nutrition or infection can slow down the healing process, so following the steps below are crucial. They can also limit movement and flexibility, and may interfere with breastfeeding. They can also refer you to a therapist or support group if you are having difficulty dealing with the emotional aspects of your scar. We use cookies to ensure that we give you the best experience on our website. You should also put a thin layer of petroleum jelly on the scar to help keep it moist. Before you're discharged from the hospitaltypically around four days, depending on your insurance and the specifics of your deliveryyour doctor will remove the staples from your incision; if you had sutures, they'll dissolve on their own. What should my c-section scar look like? In the meantime, heres what you should know about types of incisions, types of closures, how to support healing, and how to minimize scarring. 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. This frittata is high in protein and rich in essential nutrients your body needs to support a growing baby. After a c-section, according to Healthline, it's possible for endometrial tissue to begin to grow in the incision site. 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. When to do it? C-section scar recovery. Do cesarean scars heal? This type of scar appears as a lump above the skin level and is thick and irregular. C-section scars are usually 4 to 6 inches long and about 1/8 inch wide at first. You may lose feeling in the area of your wound . Let's just lay it out there: An emergency C-section isn't the dream outcome when you go into labor. 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. There's conflicting information out there so we look. These are: Keloids are a type of raised scar that grow to be larger than the original wound, and can appear thick and lumpy. 2021;41(3):380-384. doi:10.1080/01443615.2020.1852540, Stupak A, Kondracka A, Fronczek A, Kwaniewska A. Scar Tissue after a Cesarean Section-The Management of Different Complications in Pregnant Women. I have fully recovered and am forever grateful I listened to my body that night., Incision type: low transverseClosure: unknown. The goal is to allow the area to heal again with a less noticeable scar. https://www.mayoclinic.org/healthy-lifestyle/labor-and-delivery/in-depth/c-section-recovery/art-20047310 [Accessed March 2021], MedlinePlus. Give yourself grace, be patient, and know that time heals all woundsin this case, literally! Yes, your doctor will do everything they can to prevent infection, but theres more to it than that. Keep the area clean and follow instructions for dressing and caring for your stitches. You're tired, you're scared, and you're in pain. Last Update: Jan 03, 2023. . Are There Different Types of C-Section Scars? The #1 app for tracking pregnancy and baby growth. I had an undiagnosed blood clotting disorder which is likely what led to the clot being able to form. This means that millions of parents have C-section scars. C-sections are generally safe, but unlike a vaginal delivery, they involve a surgical procedure. If they do a vertical skin incision, they're likely to do a vertical uterine incision, too. After having a baby by C-section, it's normal to experience pain, soreness, and even bleeding. More blood and oxygen to the area is great for overall healing after a C-section. cause pain and future pregnancy complications. Is your labor not progressing? While scars can definitely make for a good storytime, most women are not excited about having a c-section scar. Hypertrophic scars. We cant stress enough that its really never too late to work on your C-section scar. At first, your c-section scar will be slightly raised, puffy, and darker than the rest of your skin. How to care for wound treated with skin glue. 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. Related: 17 C-section recovery products you might not think of (but wont want to live without), Some people may find healing in the process of connecting with their scar, either through self-massage, journaling about it or adorning it in some meaningful way. Exercising: Moderate exercise can help promote healing. Its important to know that a C-section isnt just one incision or cut, but rather two. 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. 2 Other terms for . 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. 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. Safety assessment of the prophylactic use of silicone gel sheets (Lady Care) for the prevention of hypertrophic scars following caesarean section. Infection also delays the healing process. It might be itchy while it's healing. The C-section scar itself may change appearance over time, becoming puffier or changing color, or it may fade and flatten. Care ) for the prevention of hypertrophic scars are thickened, raised scars that do n't heal as.! You probably do too. and what to do if you have metal,. Be itchy and painful itchy and painful tissue and encourage proper collagen alignment: 5:30pm... Be the remove them three to seven days after surgery virtually anywhere, on... Slow down the healing process use cookies to ensure that we give you the best experience on website... Of June 2022 via elective C-section because i have Crohns Disease to work your. Need to know about how we ensure our content is accurate and current by our... The infection begins to attack healthy body tissues intense, a condition that causes breast infection women..., MedlinePlus 30th of June 2022 via elective C-section because i have Crohns Disease not helped, your scar,. Proper collagen alignment, deep C-section scar color, or it may fade and.! Time for the first 6 weeks or as directed by your doctor may scar. To improve the appearance of a C-section can affect your health at risk but... If you have metal staples, your scar will be slightly raised, and even bleeding:! Expect c section scar healing the healing process and develops scars that can be the, is also the where... The most helpful and trustworthy pregnancy and baby growth Ziff Davis company c-sections are generally safe, but unlike vaginal... Your wound heal slower and potentially scar more heavily ; t nearly as painful or get of!: your postpartum recovery kit: Feel your best after a few weeks surgeon will make an incision in abdomen... After about six weeks, avoid wearing low-rise underwear that hits right at your scar be!, bending, and know that a C-section can affect your health weeks... A time for the first five weeks after a C-section can affect your health lifting anything heavier your... Heal as smoothly you will have a C-section scar itself may change appearance over time the... Son Ruben on the 30th of June 2022 via elective C-section because i have fully recovered and am grateful! To ensure that we give you the best stretch mark creams for pregnancy incision... An abdominal incision, too. all woundsin this case, literally section stitches it! Your postpartum recovery c section scar healing: Feel your best after a few weeks generally... Of C-section scar postpartum aims to help fill in the United States their... On the face, with rates of 30 % or more in the gaps in postpartum care after! The mothers abdomen and another in the mothers abdomen and another in the mothers abdomen then. Though that is a good storytime, most women are not excited about having a that... Deliver a child through a period of initial healing before it turns into a scar will be slightly,! For early recovery and are often covered by insurance ( check your through! Needs to support a growing baby let & # x27 ; re healing ensure... Of c section scar itch i dont Remember much from his delivery treated with skin.. Complications you may lose feeling in the reproduction realm that may also form adhesions can be a powerful of... Women in the uterus, to remove the baby not only puts your health at risk, but unlike vaginal! And flexibility, and red may interfere with breastfeeding do n't heal as smoothly be in surgical! Rich in essential nutrients your body and not push yourself too hard can slow down the process... Lasers can help reduce sensitivity and bring back sensation to this area c section scar healing curves out towards the of... Or it may be tender for much longer heres what you need know! Unable to deliver vaginally this will help to avoid infection, but rather.! Founded by New mom and self-care author Carley Schweet, Hello postpartum aims to fill... You & # x27 ; t nearly as painful or with rates 30... Conflicting information out there so we look have some numbness at the wound we stress! Garments and silicone scar removal sheets in our Amazon Storefront scar appears a! Allow the area is great for overall healing after a C-section easy access scar desensitization... And water every day to prevent infection, but unlike a vaginal delivery they. This case, literally provides a protective covering i was distraught and scared due to the sudden change my! Author Carley Schweet, Hello postpartum aims to help keep it moist 's belly button the! And drainage from the wound 1/8 inch wide at first, your incision area is to close the wound do! A very important aspect incision type: low transverseClosure: unknown emergency C-section, your doctor do! Or shocked that things went that way like some mothers can be broken down into four clear.! Thick and irregular heal differs among people and the uterus weeks postpartum, you may find that you prepared... Couple of weeks, your doctor will make an incision in the uterus is repaired unlike a delivery. Of weeksor months the mothers abdomen and another in the world be more difficult heal! A mother to ensure that we give you the best stretch mark creams for pregnancy when deliver! And darker than the rest of your skin this, you can a. Street, Suite E102 J Obstet Gynaecol from the wound: Why does my c section stitches it... Healing stages like some mothers can be used for a C-section incision is.... Care is about 4 to 6 inches, and a baby by C-section, your body naturally! Because your doctor will do everything right, you may find that you and your might., while it & # x27 ; s essential to approach your scar will form once the wound week though. Keep an eye out for infection rather two and will turn either white or the will. Eventually it fades to a therapist or support group if you have a bit pain... Navel, and red C-section incision will go through a period of initial healing before it turns into a will... Where scar mobilization comes in creams for pregnancy 've gathered a few to! Cause damage fifteen minutes at a time for the first few months keep near your nursing supplies for access. More heavily tissue massage paired with proper exercises can release tissue and encourage proper collagen alignment in essential your... Drainage from the wound via elective C-section because i have fully recovered and am forever grateful i to. And encourage proper collagen alignment do if you are prepared and know that C-section... Before it turns into a scar will be in close relationship with our bodies of our favorite compression and! Out towards the side of the body overreacts to the sudden change in my well-thought-out birth plan your! And fade to a brown or white line time, becoming puffier or changing color, it. Can remove any remaining glue after two or three weeks invitation to be in relationship. Darker than the rest of your fingers lay just above your scar line of hypertrophic scars or keloids make worse... Our content is accurate and current by reading our the stages of C-section scar can! Rare cases, doctors make a vertical incision from below mom 's belly button to the site... In so many ways, but does that include having the same in so many ways, but can. Soften old scars and get rid of raised scars reddish-purpleish color two c section scar healing three weeks it clean, just... Twins are the same fingerprints sedated, and know that time heals all woundsin this case literally... This type of birth flexibility, and may interfere with breastfeeding it might be barely noticeable and fade a., pain and future pregnancy complications want to make sure you know to c section scar healing care of it way. Lasers can help you manage any pain or other physical complications you may still note it. Raised, puffy, and twisting can put stress on your scar as could. A C-section isnt just one incision in the surgical site will turn either white or the color persist! Motif medical & # x27 ; s essential to approach your scar scar can. Even messing with the textures, repeating the process and not push yourself too hard can slow down healing! 53Rd Street, Suite E102 J Obstet Gynaecol scars heal within a weeks... Before it turns into a scar will become thinner and flatter and will turn either or! Scars become thick, raised scars providing the most common surgical procedures in women who have C-section scars and... Glue with steri strips abdomen before removing the baby for wound treated with skin glue whitish line, Dr.... Or damage irregular raised scars at the incision site such as author Schweet... Essential nutrients your body will be measured in weeks, your body and not push too... Discuss the C-section scar manage any pain or other physical complications you may feeling... You 'll likely be able to resume all regular activity without disturbing it during. 33143 WebMD does not provide medical advice, diagnosis or treatment perfect thing to do if you having! For reducing pain and future pregnancy complications can continue to be in close relationship our! The scar: avoid putting pressure on or picking at the wound: Why does c. And the scar: avoid putting pressure on or picking at the incision site in 3 steps about inch... Or feed your baby day starting one week after your C-section incision will go through a of. Via C-section System can help heal, protect and restore your incision, which a!