Written By: Debjani Arora | Published : October 18, 2017 2:25 PM IST
The c-section incision takes some time to heal and till then aftercare is very critical. If an infection arises on the site of the incision it could delay the process of healing and need more attention and care. Sometimes it can turn septic too. So it is really important that you follow the instructions given by your doctor to take care of the incision post surgery. Know how to take care of your incision post surgery.
However, there are chances that you might develop an infection or septic at the site. If you do so don't delay action and meet your doctor immediately to avoid any major crisis. At times, you might think that a little pain and swelling might seem normal but it could actually be an indication of a problem. To know if you should ignore a symptom or take it seriously you should also know what is normal and what is not, post a c-section. Here are the signs that you should be watchful for according to Dr Beena Jeysingh, Motherhood Hospitals, Bengaluru.
What is normal:
Here are a few things that happen to you post a c-section that is normal
Pain at the site: Since c-section is a major abdominal surgery where layers of tissues are cut and penetrated to reach the uterus little post-operative pain is expected. This kind of pain usually subsides with intake of painkillers. Here is what to expect after a c-section.
Dryness in the area: A little dryness is expected as the scar heals but this won t be painful. Medicated creams prescribed to keep the area clean can take care of this kind of dryness.
Itching: This follows along with dryness as it happens to any scar while it heals. However, refrain from itching too hard as it could lead to a tear and bleeding later.
Sweating: If the incision falls below the fold of your skin (happens with most overweight women) it might sweat a lot due to dampness. This is nothing abnormal, don t fret. Here are 15 mistakes to avoid after a c-section.
What is not normal:
However, there are some signs that indicate there is some severe problem with the incision, they are as follows
Unbearable pain: If your pain fails to subside even after having painkillers and you are unable to move or even sit-up call your doctor to check on the incision.
Swelling: This could be one of the signs of internal infection that needs to be checked.
Bleeding: Blood oozing from the site of the scar is an emergency and could mean tearing of the scar which will need immediate medical attention.
Fever: This could indicate an infection, especially if you get a fever along with the pain and swelling on the site of the incision.
Pus formation: Pus at the site of incision is not normal. As your incision heals it should become dry, pus or any liquid oozing out indicates an infection which if not treated can lead to septic.
Swelling in other parts of the body: Sometimes you might feel a swelling on the armpits or your neck along with the pain at the site.
Unnatural vaginal bleeding: If the postoperative bleeding is too much to handle and you are changing at least four to five pads a day talk to your doctor about this.
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