In this Pregnancy Care Blog by Infano, we’ll talk about all your questions and worries about the Caesarean Scar, from how it looks after your operation to what’s involved in the long term. The Caesarean Birth Scar is sometimes called a ‘C-section scar’ because it’s the type of birth you have when you have a caesarean section. Caesarean births are one of the most commonly performed surgeries in the world. The rates of caesarean deliveries have more than doubled in India, from 8% of deliveries in 2005 to 17%. The scar left by a C-section can often overwhelm you postpartum.
What is a Caesarean Scar?
A Caesarean Scar is the surgical scar on the abdomen left by a Caesarian section is left at the site where the surgeon cut through the abdomen and uterus to deliver a baby. The cut is just big enough to deliver your baby safely, and rarely it can be slightly longer. It can extend from just below the navel to just above the pubic area.
The scaring varies in size and shape but most are red, raised, and sometimes itchy. A physician will give you instructions for care after your C-section before you go home. The scar is covered with a special dressing. Initially, your scar will be a red/pink colour but this will fade gradually. The scar may fade over time and it is important that you keep it clean and dry. You can change
If you’re planning on delivering your child via caesarean section, the scar will ensure that the muscles in your abdomen heal quickly and will provide an easy way for doctors to monitor your health. It can help you recover faster and get back to life more quickly.
Types of C-Section Scars
There are two types of incisions a surgeon may use during a C-section: vertical and horizontal and the scar will look different depending on its direction.
Vertical cuts are more common in emergency C-sections because they are faster. Horizontal incisions are more common in planned C-sections. Also, horizontal incisions are more preferred by mothers because they are easier to hide and also heal more quickly and are less painful.
Caring for your Caesarean Scar
The Caesarean Scar is a small line of thin, tight skin that covers the spot where your baby was delivered. It can stretch to a few inches long and it may take a year or more to heal fully. In the meantime, it’s important to care for this delicate area to prevent infection and help it heal properly. Caesarean scars take time to heal and can be quite tender for a while. You will need to keep it clean and dry, avoid wearing tight clothes, and cut your nails short to stop them from catching on the scar.
What to do during the first month after C-section?
After having a baby by C-section, your doctor will usually recommend that you lie flat for the first week. This is to reduce the chances of blood clotting in your veins. The following week, you’ll be encouraged to sit up and help your body get used to the idea of breastfeeding. It can take up to three weeks for your body to fully recover from the surgery. Your baby is usually able to breastfeed immediately after birth or a few days later.
This Pregnancy Care Blog helps to address some concerns of a C-Scar
You will be given a scar-specific product to use for three months. Scar prevention is an ongoing process, so you need to learn which products are safe and unsafe. These can include moisturizers, lotions, makeup, and clothing. You should also ask your doctor about exercise routines that are appropriate for you. Some doctors do not recommend exercise for those with a caesarean scar, so you should ask your doctor what is best for you.
Solutions for healing your Caesarean scar
The scar can be very itchy and uncomfortable for many months, sometimes years after surgery. Some people find relief from their itchy caesarean scar by using an omega-3 supplement like one that contains fish such as salmon or krill.
Skin Treatment for Your C-Section Scar
If you want to treat your scar, you will want to look at the topmost layer of skin. This layer of skin is called the epidermis. You will want to use an electric caesarean scar therapy machine to help stimulate the blood flow. After a while, this will help to reduce the appearance of your scar and give it a softer look.
What is the best way to remove scars?
There are some basic ways that people address their caesarean scars. These are
- Silicone treatments. Silicone gel or silicon sheets can help reduce the appearance of scars over time.
- Steroid injections. For larger scars, steroid injections can help flatten it making it less visible.
- Laser therapy. Monthly medicated laser treatments can help minimize the scar.
- Scar revision- In this treatment the doctor reopens the skin of the scar and removes the scar tissue to allow the area to heal and reduce the scar area.
What happens in case of a second Caesarean birth?
The obstetrician will look with you your scar and location carefully if you’ve had a previous Caesarean during another pregnancy. If you have a past Caesarean the incision will either be in the exact same place or just under your previous scar. If your old wound doesn’t align with where to unblock, they may cut another, leaving two scars. But this really depends on how thick the previous scar is.
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