C-section scar

How to take care of a cesarean section scar?

The cesarean section scar is most often located about 2 fingers above the pubic conjunctiva. Its size depends on the doctor performing the operation and the indications for the operation. With an estimated large fetal weight, these scars are often larger than in cuts performed for other indications.

In the first few days after a cesarean section, the wound should be aired as much as possible. It should be washed with soap and water. There is no need to use special disinfectants. However, be sure to use disposable towels to dry the wound, and make sure the liner does not touch the wound area. This reduces the risk of contamination of the wound with bacteria. In the case of non-dissolvable sutures, they are usually removed about 7-10 days after surgery.

Scar after cesarean section – the role of the urogynecological physiotherapist

Women who have had a Caesarean section often note a lack of sensation in the wound area, as well as pulling in the area or thickening of the skin, for example. For this reason, increasing attention in maternity wards is being paid to recommending that women use the services of a urogynecological physiotherapist after childbirth. In addition to working with the muscles of the pelvic floor, his interests include dealing with the incision scar and its mobilization. It is best to visit a physiotherapist after the postpartum period, when the scar is healed.

Scar loss after cesarean section

In women who have had a cesarean section, in addition to the scar visible on the skin, a scar is also present on the uterine muscle. It is the reason why it is necessary to wait an appropriate time before the next pregnancy. Experts specify that ideally there should be at least 18 months between births. Too short an interval risks, in the worst case scenario, a uterine rupture in the scar. If it has been less than 12 months since the last c-section, the Polish Society of Obstetricians and Gynecologists recommends considering another elective c-section rather than attempting a vaginal birth (known as VBAC).

In women who have had a cesarean section, during the ultrasound examination, the doctor can assess the thickness of the cesarean scar, as well as its possible loss (isthmocele). It is recommended that the scar check be done before getting another pregnancy, as measurements during pregnancy can give a false result. Based on the thickness of the scar from the pre-pregnancy cesarean section, a decision may be made about another delivery by cesarean section so that the aforementioned uterine rupture does not occur.

Read more about planning another pregnancy after a C-section: https://www.pbkm.pl/pregnancy-zone-2/jak-dbac-o-siebie-w-ciazy/kolejna-ciaza-po-cesarskim-cieciu