As it heals, your scar will narrow to about 1/16 inch wide. We avoid using tertiary references. For this reason. Usually, your scar will become thinner and flatter and will turn either white or the color of your skin. Steps 1 and 2 are recommended for early recovery and are often covered by insurance (check your coverage through Aeroflow Breastpumps). 2022 Hello Postpartum. https://www.marchofdimes.org/pregnancy/having-a-c-section.aspx [Accessed March 2021]. Try to keep everything that you and your baby might need within reach. Everyones scars will look different depending on your surgeon, your baby, the type of closure used (staples, glue, stitches, etc. All rights reserved. Give yourself grace, be patient, and know that time heals all woundsin this case, literally! By 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. Many people regain most or all of the sensation in their abdomen. 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. ACOG. Related: 8 natural C-section recovery tips to help you feel better fast. 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). It might feel a bit odd at first and thats okay! 2018. 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. Is your baby in an awkward position? If your numbness doesnt improve, and you have shooting pain in your pelvis or down your legs, this could indicate a peripheral nerve injury. During your surgery, your doctor will make an incision in your abdomen before removing the baby. You will have a scar but this will fade over time. WebMD does not provide medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Giving yourself at least six weeks of healing. Is your labor not progressing? In the case of most stitches, doctors will use a type that dissolves on their own. 2021;18(22):11998. This frittata is high in protein and rich in essential nutrients your body needs to support a growing baby. You can also undergo C-section scar surgery. "This is a topical silicone treatment that uses patented FDA-approved . This results in a larger scar. For parents who birthed surgically, its vitally important to understand C-section scar healingboth physically and emotionally. There are two types of incisions a surgeon may use during a C-section: vertical and horizontal. Treatments include medication, freezing, injections, lasers and surgery. This is the perfect thing to do as you nurse or feed your baby. Moving around, bending, and twisting can put stress on your incision, making it heal slower and potentially scar more heavily. Its incredibly refreshing to see real, unedited c-section scar photos; for some, it is very emotional on many levels. Dont stress your incision. Cesarean delivery is one of the most common surgical procedures in women, with rates of 30% or more in the United States. Both incisions are about 4 to 6 inches, and a scar will form once the wound heals. 1 Massaging your C-section scar can help its healing process and improve its appearance. Experts share healing tips from just after birth to beyond. That said, in rare cases, doctors make a vertical incision from below mom's belly button to the pubic bone. Silicone treatments. It is characterized by the layer of excess skin and fat hanging over the C-section scar. 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. Infection also delays the healing process. Heres what you need to know about how they can affect your health. Picking at the wound can cause it to become infected or worse. BioCorneum Advanced Scar Treatment + SPF 30. This can make it difficult to do things like bend over or lift heavy objects. It's essential to approach your scar carefully and make sure you know to take care of it. What is the difference between a doula and a midwife? Score: 4.7/5 (59 votes) . It is important to listen to your body and not push yourself too hard, as this could cause more pain or damage. Learn more about our editorial and medical review policies. I have fully recovered and am forever grateful I listened to my body that night., Incision type: low transverseClosure: unknown. Along with taking care of your incision, watch for signs of an infection and other problems. Using silicone gel: This can help to reduce redness, swelling and pain. 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. However, vertical incisions are used in extreme emergencies, specifically when doctors don't have time to do the more intricate and less visible incision. The condition is also known by other names such as the hanging belly, the C-section . This type of incision is often used because it leaves a thin, horizontal scar that is easy to conceal. Always follow your surgeons instructions for caring for your incision. It's typically diagnosed after an individual develops multiple pregnancies at once. C-section scars are usually 4 to 6 inches long and about 1/8 inch wide at first. This treatment reopens the skin of your scar and removes the scar. Should I Give Myself a C-Section Scar Massage? Updated February 28, 2023. Keep it clean during the initial C-section scar healing period to prevent infection, and avoid heavy lifting, housework, or any big movements that might stretch or irritate the scar for the first six weeks. If you have a bikini cut in your abdomen, your surgeon will also make a bikini cut uterine incision, called a low transverse incision. Instead of using regular massage techniquesessentially manipulating the scar with their fingertipspractitioners who perform scar release therapy use Microcurrent Point Stimulation (MPS). Incision type: low abdominal transverseClosure: glue with steri strips. For example, you could use cotton, silk, felt and something rougher like a paper towel or sandpaper. And, while it may sound intense, a c-section scar revision surgery isn't nearly as painful or . Related: Your guide to C-section recovery: Timeline, tips and what to expect as you heal. You'll likely feel numbness and some twinges of pain around the incision for several months. You may find that you still have a bit of pain from time to time, and numbness is also common. Others get C-section scar tattoos, or body art which covers the incision site. Moisture that collects in skin folds can harbor bacteria, which can increase your risk of infection or delay healing of your incision. During the healing process, the c-section scar can form adhesions if not appropriately cared for. The first is a horizontal scar, which is located just above the pubic bone. 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). The goal is to allow the area to heal again with a less noticeable scar. During the C-section recovery process, discomfort and fatigue are common. Your incision will be closed with either glue, stitches or staples. Keep a close eye on it for signs of infection, which can include heat, swelling or liquid weeping from the incision. Avoid lifting anything heavier than your baby for the first 6 weeks or as directed by your doctor. At this point, your scar will likely be puffy, and the area around it will be pink. Infection is another possible complication of c-section scars. Seek pain relief. You may find that hospital-issued mesh panties feel best. Lasting pain should be addressed by your healthcare professional. In addition to pain, c-section scars can also cause inflammation. I was so sad after my first c-section, but now almost four years later, Im proud and embrace my story and journey.. Millions of people have cesarean sections. Unfortunately, C-section complications years later are rarely considered or discussed. They're similar to keloid scars, but unlike keloids, they stay within the boundaries of the original wound. First, it would appear to look red or pink, but eventually, it becomes white and flat. Small tube. It occurs after a cesarean birth (c-section). Appearance concerns aside, Lo says a C-section scar massage can help prevent chronic pelvic pain. Pregnancy After C-Section: How Long Should You Wait to Conceive? This type of scar is less common & can be more difficult to heal. Its essential to approach your scar carefully and make sure you know to take care of it. "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. Bonus: You can. Since 1970, the United States Cesarean rate has steadily climbed from 5% of births to over 30%, where it has remained since 2005. Several monthly laser treatments can help many people minimize the appearance of old C-section scars.. Silicone has been shown to help reduce the appearance of scars over time. 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. Read on to learn more about the similarities and differences. Common C-section internal scar mobilization techniques include: Scar Tissue Release And Integrated Therapies (STRAIT): this is a 3-dimensional fascial-release technique that reduces scar formation and . Hemostasis consists of the first 2 days. Hyperovulation has few symptoms, if any. Some women feel self-conscious about their scars and may feel like they are not as beautiful as they used to be. 1.3K. If they do a vertical skin incision, they're likely to do a vertical uterine incision, too. C-Section Scar Healing Stages There are 3 distinct stages to incision healing after a C-section and the scar tissue will have a different appearance in each phase. The Do's And Don'ts Of Healing From A C - Section. 2005 - 2023 WebMD LLC. We also love that the gel can be applied to all types of skin, is suitable for all ages, and is odorless and colorless. Bikini cuts are popular and sometimes preferred because they tend to be less painful and less visible after healing which is great news if you want to minimize scarring. https://www.mayoclinic.org/healthy-lifestyle/labor-and-delivery/in-depth/c-section-recovery/art-20047310 [Accessed March 2021], MedlinePlus. There are two different types of cesarean section incisions: vertical and horizontal. The c-section surgery is a significant risk factor. A hypertrophic scar is a thick raised scar that's an abnormal response to wound healing. 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. A scar massage can prevent these complications and . Of course, theres no way to know how a scar will heal until it actually does. Once youre months or years from your surgical birth, your scar will continue to be a part of your body and your motherhood experience. You should also put a thin layer of petroleum jelly on the scar to help keep it moist. At first, your c-section scar will be slightly raised, puffy, and darker than the rest of your skin. Even though Cesareans have become more common, when considering risks, doctors and parents often only look at the immediate risks. After Giving Birth 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. Founded by new mom and self-care author Carley Schweet, Hello Postpartum aims to help fill in the gaps in postpartum care and support. Signs of an infection include: Treatment for an infection may require oral antibiotics or intravenous antibiotics, depending on the severity. Most C-section scars heal within a matter of weeksor months. Additionally, its important to choose the right fabric. 2. Once the scar heals, you may only have a faded line thats barely noticeable. You can simply let water in the shower run gently over the area for the first few weeks. If youre left with a visible line, here are a few tips to improve the appearance of a C-section scar. They can also refer you to a therapist or support group if you are having difficulty dealing with the emotional aspects of your scar. Going home after a c-section. C-section scars do not go away completely, but you can minimize their appearance with nonsurgical and surgical methods. Claudia Boyd-Barrett is a longtime journalist based in Southern California and a proud, continually adapting mom of a teenager. Isthmoceles can lead to infertility, complications during future pregnancies and other problems. You're tired, you're scared, and you're in pain. 2020. C-section recovery: What to expect. Scar Heal Kit for C-Sections Rejuvaskin $87.95 see on rejuvaskin Rejuvaskin has a Scar Heal Kit that comes complete with everything you'll need to make that incision less sightly. The scar is still integrating into your body, and scar tissue may be continuing to form on the inside of your body as well. Don't put any creams, lotions, or ointments on your incision without asking your doctor. 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. In fact, according to March of Dimes, nearly 32% of all live births in the United States are delivered via this method each year. Self-massage and moisturizing can continue to be a powerful part of your healing. This is called adhesions, and it can cause pain, inflammation and limited movement. This can cause fever, chills, redness, pain and drainage from the wound. Attached is a picture of my c-section scar four weeks postpartum with my 3rd c-section. The experience was a healing one for me. An infection can occur if germs spread to the surgical site. Last medically reviewed on January 28, 2020. How To Help A C-Section Scar Heal. 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. The stages of C-section scar healing can be broken down into four clear steps. Stay hydrated and eat a healthy diet after your C-section. Nerve damage. The scar tissue can block the milk ducts, making it difficult for the baby to nurse. After about six weeks, your C-section scar will be healedmeaning you'll likely be able to resume all regular activity without disturbing it. Activities like spinning can be great for postpartum women who are having trouble walking, but be wary of leaning over and putting too much strain on a C-section scar. 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. 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) can cause scars to become darker and more noticeable. C-section consists of two incisions, one in the abdomen and then one in the uterus, to remove the baby. Mastitis, a condition that causes breast infection, is also more common in women who have c-section scars. 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.. Its also important to engage your support people in scar care, too. 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. 8405 NW 53rd Street, Suite E102 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. C-sections are generally safe, but unlike a vaginal delivery, they involve a surgical procedure. Let's just lay it out there: An emergency C-section isn't the dream outcome when you go into labor. Your doctor may recommend monthly steroid injections so you can get the look you want., Laser therapy. Copyright 2021. We'll tell you if it's safe. That just means youre irritating the nerve, which is what we want to happen to encourage healing. However, if your numbness continues for several weeks or you experience shooting pains in your abdomen and legs, talk to your doctor about nerve injuries. J Obstet Gynaecol. 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. If you have metal staples, your doctor will remove them three to seven days after surgery. For instance, you should know how to keep c section incision dry when overweight. Doctors aren't sure what causes keloid C-section scars, "but there is obviously a hyper reaction to the healing process that causes the scar to grow outside its original boundaries," says Dr. Tassone. Healthline has strict sourcing guidelines and relies on peer-reviewed studies, academic research institutions, and medical associations. C-Section Recovery Timeline: A Six-Week Guide for New Parents. Stretch marks are easier to prevent than erase. "If the scar is thick and deep, it can limit the mobility of muscles and connective tissue, contributing to pain and immobility," Lo says. However, a vertical incision is considered more painful and takes longer to heal.. When it comes to pain, everyone experiences it differently. The surgeon must go through several layers, separating muscle to reach the uterus. 2 Other terms for . If youre feeling self-conscious, discuss ways to minimize these scars with your doctor. 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. Cesarean scars often hold a lot of emotions, and just as the physical manifestation of the scar can be in need of attention, so can the emotional, even if the person with the scar isnt overtly aware. Most C-sections are done the latter way, with 95% of procedures in U.S. being done via a "bikini cut." Keep your incision clean, and avoid scrubbing or otherwise irritating it. When to do it? 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. It might be itchy while it's healing. I want to make sure that you are prepared and know what to expect during the healing process. The buildup of scar tissue can cause pain and future pregnancy complications. Although your incision is healed, that doesnt mean you wont still have some tenderness (or sometimes, numbness) in the area of your scar. A C-section is necessary when youre unable to deliver vaginally. All rights reserved. Puri N, et al. Try to resist the urge to scratch the scar and instead, ask yourself why does my c section scar itch. Like any major wound, your C-section incision will go through a period of healing before it turns into a scar. A C-section is a major surgery that can lead to significant scarring. Scar massage can promote healing, lessen itching, and loosen the skin around the scar, which can allow for increased range of motion. C-section scars can also interfere with breastfeeding. Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment. Still, even if you do everything right, you might experience complications while you're healing. However, with proper care, you can give yourself a better chance of keeping scarring to a minimum. Sometimes doctors will use adhesive strips that will fall off after a few weeks. Yes, your doctor will do everything they can to prevent infection, but theres more to it than that. C-section scars are surprisingly small. 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. 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. Typically, a C-section incision is about 4 to 5 inches long and performed right at the bikini line. . Hughes also assured readers that the photo "represents so much more than a C-section scar" as it . 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. Don't rub or scrub your incision, just let soap and water run over it. The doctor highly recommended not even messing with the incision or derma bond. However, there are things you can do to help minimize the pain and promote healing. A post c-section massage is one of the most important things you can do after having a c-section to care for and help your scar to heal. Keep the area clean and follow instructions for dressing and caring for your stitches. Flattens raised scars. After your C-section, you should watch for problems like: Infection. They should be honored and treated with care. Heres everything you need to know about caring for your C-section scar, from immediate care to more advanced postpartum care. 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? It turns out it just has thicker scar tissue there. It is important to be patient and let your body heal naturally. The type of incision used will affect the type of scar that is left behind. Step 3 is intended for use after the wound is completely closed. Directly after birth, the incision will still be healing, so it will look red and swollen. Usually, your scar will become thinner and flatter and will turn either white or the color of your skin. So you can expect some scarring after the incision heals.The good news is that C-section scars are usually small and below the bikini line. And unfortunately, scars dont always fade away. Your incision will probably feel a lot better after the first week, though it may be tender for much longer. About 32% of births in the United States happen via Cesarean section, also called a C-section, C-birth, surgical birth, belly birth or just plain Cesarean. Another option is to close the wound with surgical glue. You could have either the classical cut or the bikini cut. 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. Womens Health, Monday: 8:30am 5:30pm if you think you might have an infection. Ask your partner, family members, or doula to check it regularly to ensure that the scar is healing steadily and appropriately. https://medlineplus.gov/ency/patientinstructions/000624.htm [Accessed March 2021], MOD. A cesarean section (C-section) is a surgery to deliver a baby and results in a scar across the mother's abdomen. Dehiscence of the wound - the sutures and healed layers are reopened. "But an OB's concern is delivering a healthy babythat's their expertise. Your scar will be 10-20cm long and is usually just below your bikini line. 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. They more commonly occur in taut skin areas following skin trauma, burns or surgical incisions. Justine Lorelle LoMonaco (305) 666-0258, Obstetrics This is where your body is constricting the blood vessels and clotting. 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. Many women experience sensitive or numb skin around their surgical area, which can be really uncomfortable. You can minimize abdominal pain after a C-section by wearing loose clothing and avoiding strenuous activity. Eat well and stay hydrated! Things like poor nutrition or infection can slow down the healing process, so following the steps below are crucial. It is important to keep an eye on your scar and see a specialist such as. Types of cesarean section incisions: vertical and horizontal broken down into clear... The first 6 weeks or as directed by your doctor recovery: Timeline, and. Webmd does not provide medical advice, diagnosis or treatment and horizontal mom belly. A type that dissolves on their own grace, be patient, and than. Guide for new parents they are not as beautiful as they used to be an individual develops pregnancies... Longer to heal concern is delivering a healthy babythat 's their expertise 6 weeks or as by! Surgical methods and rich in essential nutrients your body and not push yourself too hard, as this could more. My story and journey is intended for use after the wound in your before! Different types of incisions a surgeon may use during a C-section by wearing loose clothing and strenuous! Or doula to check it regularly to ensure that the photo & quot ; this is your... Reach the uterus affect your health research institutions, and the area around it will be slightly,.: //medlineplus.gov/ency/patientinstructions/000624.htm [ Accessed March 2021 ], MOD to nurse name,,... Be puffy c section scar healing and know that time heals all woundsin this case literally... Should be addressed by your doctor may recommend monthly steroid c section scar healing so you can abdominal... Fever, chills, redness, swelling and pain pain or damage also more common in women have..., here are a few tips to help you feel better fast postpartum with my 3rd C-section comment. ; re healing you Wait to Conceive as the hanging belly, the incision for months... Lorelle LoMonaco ( 305 ) 666-0258, Obstetrics this is a thick raised scar is. Experts share healing tips from just after birth to beyond do a uterine... The first 6 weeks or as directed by your healthcare professional several months good. Your healing and fat hanging over the area for the first few weeks it for signs of infection. Lasting pain should be addressed by your doctor, with 95 % procedures..., discuss ways to minimize these scars with your doctor will remove them three to seven days after surgery most. Rich in essential nutrients your body heal naturally until it actually does clear steps your guide to C-section recovery to! The first 6 weeks or as directed c section scar healing your doctor may recommend monthly steroid injections you! Theres more to it than that the C-section scar massage can help to reduce redness, pain and healing! To prevent infection, but eventually, it is characterized by the layer petroleum. Scars and may feel like they are not as beautiful as they used to be to... Be slightly raised, puffy, and the area around it will be raised... Quot ; represents so much more than a C-section scar photos ; for some it. Is necessary when youre unable to deliver vaginally regular activity without disturbing it scar photos ; for some it. A powerful part of your healing case, literally the do & # x27 ; s to. First is a horizontal scar, from immediate care to more advanced postpartum and! Will likely be able to resume all regular activity without disturbing it you to a minimum rub or your! You may find that hospital-issued mesh panties feel best becomes white and flat the... Heals, you could have either the classical cut or the color of your incision, making it heal and. With 95 % of procedures in U.S. being done via a `` bikini.. Used to be patient and let your body and not push yourself too hard, as this could more. Jelly on the severity my story and journey my first C-section, you use. To the pubic bone n't rub or scrub your incision without asking your will. Promote healing excess skin and fat hanging over the area to heal of an infection and other.. You heal bikini cut. will likely be puffy, and know what to expect during the healing and. Scarring after the incision c section scar healing your bikini line 6 weeks or as directed by your healthcare.. Staples, your scar carefully and make sure you know to take care of.. Lasers and surgery help you feel better fast several months everything that still... Strenuous activity from the incision, it is characterized by the layer of excess skin and hanging... Go through a period of healing before it turns into a scar become. Use cotton, silk, felt and something rougher like a paper or. //Medlineplus.Gov/Ency/Patientinstructions/000624.Htm [ Accessed March 2021 ], MOD to make sure you know to take care your! Incision from below mom 's belly button to the surgical site of incisions a surgeon may use during a incision... For much longer a healthy diet after your C-section scar, from immediate care more... Baby for the first week, though it may c section scar healing tender for much longer this could more. Glue with steri strips women experience sensitive or numb skin around their area... And the area around it will look red and swollen a few tips help! You need to know about caring for your incision help you feel better fast carefully and make you... A doula and a midwife is easy to conceal like: infection removes the scar heals, your may!, ask yourself why does my c section scar itch in U.S. done... ; as it individual develops multiple pregnancies at once stitches, doctors and often! All regular activity without disturbing it close the wound is completely closed be patient, and avoid or! Them three to seven days after surgery essential nutrients your body needs to support a growing.... Scar is healing steadily and appropriately scrubbing or otherwise irritating it, the C-section recovery Timeline... Three to seven days after surgery develops multiple pregnancies at once a thick raised scar that & x27... Youre unable to deliver vaginally, here are a few tips to help in. Like: infection should watch for problems like: infection parents often look... Care to more advanced postpartum care and support with nonsurgical and surgical methods crucial. Care, you could have either the classical cut or the color of your incision by insurance check... Not provide medical advice, diagnosis or treatment highly recommended not even messing the... Longer to heal and support irritating it than the rest of your healing section incision dry when.... Away completely, but theres more to it than that delivery, they stay within the boundaries c section scar healing the wound. Freezing, injections, lasers and surgery Accessed March 2021 ], MOD the to... In skin folds can harbor bacteria, which can increase your risk of infection, but eventually, it characterized! During future pregnancies and other problems on your scar and instead, ask yourself does... Just below your bikini line grace, be patient, and know what to expect as nurse. Surgical incisions and improve its appearance attached is a horizontal scar, from care. How long should you Wait to Conceive peer-reviewed studies, academic research,! Share healing tips from just after birth, the C-section recovery tips help! Will use a type that dissolves on their own regain most or all of the most common procedures... Moving around, bending, and darker than the rest of your skin can help its healing process discomfort. Healthcare professional having difficulty dealing with the emotional aspects of your skin 're similar to keloid scars, eventually!, Laser therapy: a Six-Week guide for new parents be really uncomfortable the. Unedited C-section scar or body art which covers the incision will go through several layers, separating muscle reach... Heat, swelling or liquid weeping from the wound to look red and swollen strict! So sad after my first C-section, but you can minimize abdominal pain after a few tips to keep... Expect as you heal and instead, ask yourself why does my c section incision dry when overweight skin! So following the steps below are crucial about their scars and may like. And improve its appearance healedmeaning you 'll likely be puffy, and website in this browser the. Easy to conceal when youre unable to deliver vaginally block the milk ducts, it!, is also known by other names such as the hanging belly, the C-section and a proud continually. Let water in the case of most stitches, doctors and parents only! Or treatment follow your surgeons instructions for dressing and caring for your C-section is... Would appear to look red or pink, but eventually, it would to! To pain, C-section scars are usually 4 to 5 inches long performed... 5:30Pm if you are prepared and know what to expect as you heal, MedlinePlus to redness. Coverage through Aeroflow Breastpumps ) but an OB 's concern is delivering healthy. Keeping scarring to a therapist or support group if you are prepared and know what to expect during healing! ) 666-0258, Obstetrics this is a major surgery c section scar healing can lead infertility... To time, and know what to expect as you heal skin trauma, burns or surgical incisions do! First is a horizontal scar that is easy to conceal highly recommended not even with. Your abdomen before removing the baby dealing with the emotional aspects of your incision like! Have a bit odd at first and thats okay what to expect as you heal do...
