Postpartum Recovery Tips: Taking Care of the Scar
The wound from your C-section may feel sore for about 1-2 weeks. You may also feel weakness in the muscle that surrounds the wound. It would be best to ask a doctor about pain medication while nursing to avoid harming your baby’s health.
Kinds of C-Section Incisions
There are 2 kinds of incisions that you can get for your C-section. The first one is a horizontal incision, the pfannenstiel incision, which is also called a bikini cut, that is used for most cesareans. The cut is done on the lowest uterus part, which can help lessen bleeding.
The vertical incision, which is also called a classical C-section. Back in the day, it was more common than the bikini cut, however, it is now used for more specific cases. These types of incisions can take a bit longer to heal and may feel a bit more painful.
Typically a doctor will use dissolvable stitches. However, a doctor might use non-dissolvable stitches which will have to be taken out several weeks after you give birth. There are also other ways a doctor can close the incision, such as glue or staples.
Cesarean Scars
Oftentimes a scar from a cesarean can heal properly. However, you may have issues with scarring when your body goes into overdrive with the healing process. This is more likely to happen if you have dark skin or are younger than 30 years old.
The first kind of scar you can get is a keloid scar. This happens when the scar tissue goes beyond the wound’s original boundaries,. This can create scar tissue lumps around your incision.
The second kind of scar that you can get is a hypertrophic scar. Compared to a normal scar, it is raised, firmer, and thicker but it will stay within the incision line.
Wound Care
When you shower — preferably once a day or as directed by your doctor — keep your wound clean by allowing soapy water to drip towards your wound without vigorously scrubbing it. You can pat dry the area gently using a clean towel when you are done.
To speed up your healing process, it is best to avoid tight-fitting clothing because it can irritate the incision. You can opt for loose-fitting clothes such as pajamas, jogging pants, baggy shirts, etc.
You should also avoid exercising because it can reopen your incision. Avoid lifting heavy objects and bending over because these movements can also reopen your incision.
Some doctors will tell you to leave your wound uncovered and allow it to heal naturally. However, other doctors will say that you can apply petroleum jelly or a topical ointment and use a bandage to lightly cover the wound. It would be best to ask your doctor what the best method would be to deal with your scar.
Key Takeaway
It is important to take care of yourself even when you have a baby who needs lots of your attention. You can follow these postpartum recovery tips to help yourself heal after cesarean surgery.
Learn more about Pospartum Care here.
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