C Section Scar: Causes, Picture, Symptoms and Treatment

C section scar occurs during the delivery of the baby. C-section is one of the common and popular methods to deliver a baby. Many women choose the option due to a wide variety of reasons. The C-section has several pros as well as cons. The scar is one of the major cons of the method compared to vaginal delivery. The C section scar can trigger certain complications. So, you need to get ample information to prevent adverse effects. It will help you seek treatment at the right time to heal faster. Therefore, you can read ahead to get information on the scar can fade faster.

C-Section Incisions

Before going into the details about the scar caused by the Caesarean section, you need to know about the incisions. The incision is responsible for the scars. The doctor can make the incisions on your abdomen to deliver the baby. The C-section is opted by the pregnant women in the event of the abnormal position of the baby. The breech position of the baby cannot lead to normal vaginal delivery. So, the doctor can opt the surgical method to bring the infant into the world.

Types Of C-Section Incisions

The C section scar you get depends on the types of incision the doctor makes. Two types of incisions are made by the doctor during the surgery. The doctor can make one of the incisions on the lower abdomen. Another incision is made into the uterus. The cuts can differ and mostly classified as:

Low-Transverse Incision

It is the most popular incision preferred by most of the doctors for the cesarean deliveries. The horizontal incision by the doctors on the lowest level of the uterus can help take the baby out. Your doctor makes the incision on the thinnest area of the skin. So, it reduces the bleeding from the cut. The incision can enable you to have a vaginal birth. The incision may not break/split during the normal delivery. Therefore, the mothers can opt for a normal vaginal birth after the C-section.

Classical Incision

It leaves a C section scar vertically from the navel region to the pubic hairline. It is used mostly when the baby lies in the uterus in an uncommon position. The doctor delivers the baby lying low in the uterus using the classical incision. The cut can induce pain and takes time to heal. So, mothers who have classical incision before cannot opt for normal vaginal birth.

Closing The Caesarean Section Incisions

In most cases, the gynecologist closes the incision on the uterus with stitches that are dissolvable in nature. But, different options are available to close the incisions in the lower abdomen. So, the doctor can opt from the following to close the cesarean section surgery incisions:

Surgical Glue

It is the fast-healing method opted by the doctors. It heals promptly and does not leave the dark C section on the lower abdomen scar. The doctor uses the surgical glue to the incisions. Then, coves it with a transparent dressing. So, it helps hold the skin together until the glue dries. The amount of glue required depends on the stomach fat consistency of the mother. The doctor also checks the skin after performing the cesarean surgery to decide on the glue.

Staples

Among the different methods to close the incisions, the doctor prefers staples. It is the easiest and quick method to close the incision. So, your doctor uses the metal staples to hold the skin together till it heals.

Stitches

As the name suggests, the doctor sews the incision. Surgical needles and dissolvable thread can hold the skin together. It takes a long time to heal. But, the method has fewer complications compared to the staples.

What Are Caesarean Scars?

The surgical cesarean section can leave marks behind on the skin. The C-section incisions to deliver the baby are known as the C section scar. In most cases, young mothers (below the age of thirty) can experience prompt and swift healing. But, mothers with dark skin can experience trouble with scaring. In the majority of the cases, the C section scar heals well and only leaves a fine line behind. With some extra care, the line may disappear over time.

Types Of C Section Scar

The doctor mostly classifies the C section scar into two different types. Know about the different types to understand how it shows on your skin.

Keloids

It is the type of scar that displays the scar tissue. So, you can see the C section scar beyond the original borders of the surgical incision. It can leave an uneven looking mark on your skin. It is due to the fact that the scar tissue can bulge together around the wound to protect the injury. So, the excessive growth of the scar tissue can make the wound look larger. The scar has a smooth yet hard growth. The scar has no visual appeal and can make you embarrassed.

Hypertrophic Scar

It is a thick scar that has more elevation than a normal scar. In most cases, the scar rises not above 4mm from the skin. Unlike the Keloids, it does not extend beyond the actual incision or wound. So, you can detect the scar with its appearance. It has a red or pink color depending on the skin tone of the person.

Complication Due To C Section Scar

You need to maintain caution with the C section scar as it can trigger certain complications. So, you need to monitor for the signs that indicate something can go wrong. The common complications associated with the scars are:

Tearing

In more than 99% of the C section cases, the scar can heal quickly. It can hold the uterine tissue together without any complications. But, in some cases, the C section scar can tear during pregnancy or contractions. The condition mostly occurs when the doctor makes a vertical incision to get the baby out of the uterus. So, you have to maintain caution during the next pregnancy.

Uterine Rupture

The c section scar can lead to uterine rupture. The problem can cause unprompted tearing of the uterus. It can trigger severe bleeding. So, the condition can put your life at risk. Though it is rare, the scar lines can rupture and push the baby out.

Placenta Praevia

Women with the C section scar can face another complication. When they become pregnant the next time, the placenta can grow near the cervix opening. So, the problem can cause severe bleeding. It can make the women go into shock. The problem can also cause growth restriction in the babies.

Pain

Many women can experience sensitivity along the C section scar. It can cause hurt when you change position. You may also feel discomfort when you bend to pick up things. But, in some rare cases, the scar can trigger pain. Severe pain can prevent you from doing your day-to-day activities.

Infection-Triggered By C Section Scar

After the cesarean surgery, you can get affected by the different infection. The infection develops at the c section scar site. It can further spread to other areas depending on the type. So, the different types are:

Cellulitis

Inflammation can occur around the incision tissue. So, the c section scar may become red and swollen. Such infection is known as cellulitis. The infection caused by specific bacteria can make the area tender. Streptococcal or staphylococcal strains are the main culprits behind the infection. So, you may not find pus formation at the injection site.

Abdominal Abscess

The c section scar site inflammation can develop into an abdominal abscess. The area may become tender. You can also experience swelling. So, the bacterial infection can affect the tissue cavity. It leads to pus formation. As it develops, the pus begins to leak out from the incision.

Endometritis

The infection from the c section scar site can reach the uterus. So, it causes irritation in the uterine lining. The problem known as endometritis can trigger abdominal pain and severe vaginal discharge. You can also experience a fever along with the problem.

Thrush

The fungus present in the body called candida can trigger the thrush. It mostly affects women with weak immunity. When they take steroids, the fungus can trigger a yeast infection. Some women may get mouth sores. It is due to the absence of the good bacteria in the body to fight against the fungus.

Urinary Infections

The women undergoing cesarean require catheters to pass urine while healing. So, it increases the chances of development of bacteria called E.coli. It results in urinary tract infection.

Diagnosis To Detect C Section Scar Problems

The c section scar can get infected. It can create severe complications. In most of the cases, the doctor examines the incision area thoroughly. The wound gets inspected for infection and other issues. But, the majority of women can get affected by infection only after a week of the surgery. So, the doctor can adopt the following to eliminate the presence of any problem:

Physical Examination

The doctor performs a primary examination of the c section scar. It is first performed without removing the sutures or tapes. The visual appearance of the scar can provide information on its status. The presence of swelling and redness in the region indicates infection.

Check Healing

The doctor may check the sutures closely. So, they may remove the bandages to check for the healing progress. The presence of the infection gets detected with close observation of the stitches/suture. In case of infection, the sutures break down earlier than expected.

Lab Tests

In some cases, pus accumulates in the region. In such cases, the doctors drain the pus with the help of an injection. It helps reduce the irritation in the region. The swab sample of the pus gets assessed in the lab. So, the technicians culture the wound and see it under the microscope to analyze the bacterial presence.

Treatment for C Section Scar

The C section scar is not dangerous to your health. The appearance of the scar can make you embarrassed. You may lose confidence to wear clothes that reveal the scar. So, it can affect your self-confidence. You can opt for a treatment option to lighten the scar to make it look more appealing. Therefore, you can try the following treatment options to heal or lighten the scar:

Non-Surgical Procedure

The non-invasive procedures can soften the texture of the c section scar. It also makes the scar look less prominent. So, the following procedure can provide the desired effect like:

Laser Therapy

The laser therapy can lighten the scar and make it soft. So, it does not stand out from the skin surrounding it. It is ideal for c section scar that has discoloration. You can opt for the procedure after the stitch removal. Talk to your doctor before undergoing the procedure.

Steroid Injection

It is the type of treatment option for keloids or hypertrophic scars. So, injecting steroids into the scars can flatten it. It makes the scars less visible. So, you can ensure the scar does not affect the visual appeal.

Surgical Procedure

Another option to lighten the scar involves using the invasive procedure. You can opt for the procedure if the c section scar does not lighten after six to twelve months. The procedure known as scar revision can make the scar barely visible. So, it removes the skin surrounding the scar to make it less prominent. But, you need sedation or anesthesia to undergo the procedure.

You can also opt for abdominoplasty. It is another surgical option available for lightening the scar. It removes the loose abdomen skin along with the additional fat around the area. So, it can reduce the prominence of the scar on your skin.

How To Heal C Section Scar Quickly?

It is important that the c section scar heals quickly. Else, it can cause infections. The infections may cause you agony and discomfort. Therefore, follow the tips to ensure swift healing of the scar.

Keep It Clean And Dry

Maintain the c section scar region clean. You can use anti-bacterial soap and water to keep the area clean. But, never scrub the area. The scrubbing can cause scar tissue to become susceptible to infection. Always dry it with a clean towel.

Apply Ointment

Your doctor can suggest ointment for quick healing of the scar. You need to apply the cream and leave it open. Never apply anything without getting the doctor’s permission.

Avoid Tight Clothes

The c section scar needs proper air circulation to heal quickly. Therefore, avoid wearing tight-fitting clothes that prevent air circulation in the lower abdomen. Choose to wear loose clothes like a gown. It helps with the proper healing of the scar.

Avoid Physical Strain

You need to keep your body from severe strain while the scar heals. Therefore, avoid strenuous physical activities. Try not to exercise or lift heavyweights. It can lead to the opening of the wounds. So, limit your physical exertion till the scar heals completely.

Prompt Stitches Removal

Never delay the removal of the stitches. Keep the appointment with the doctor to remove the stitches. If you delay it, then it can lead to deep scars.

Stay Active

Not performing strenuous workout does not mean you have to stay inactive. For quick healing, your blood circulation must improve. So, make yourself active. Perform small yet significant work daily to improve the blood circulation in the body. Therefore, it will help the healing of cut faster.

Tips To Minimize The C Section Scar

You can implement some steps after the scar heals to minimize its appearance. Many women find it embarrassing to show their scar to the outside world. So, they try not to wear revealing clothes that show the lower abdomen. But, the following steps can reduce scarring and improve its appearance at home.

Reduce Sun Exposure

Exposing yourself to the sun can make the scar noticeable. It is due to the fact that the scar cannot tan. But, normal skin can change its color. So, it makes the scar look prominent. It is better you stay out of sunlight. You need to stay out of the sun for at least one year after the surgery. After the first year, you can go out in the sunlight after using sunlight.

Use Silicone Sheets

The silicone sheets have a clinically proven ability to reduce the scar. It is safe to use on the existing scars. The self-adhesive silicone sheet can also prevent the formation of new scars. So, it can significantly improve the c section scar appearance. You can use the sheets after the removal of the stitches. It is also right to use after the stitches dissolve. Therefore, the sheets can lighten and soften the scar to improve its appearance.

Silicone Gels/Cream

The silicone gels and cream can provide hydration to the outer most skin layer. So, it facilitates the production of fibroblast. It also reduces collagen production. The result is flatter scar with a soft texture. The gels and creams can also reduce the itching associated with the C section scar. So, you can reduce the discomfort associated with the scars. The creams have a formula that allows the skin to breathe. But, before beginning the application, you need to talk to your doctor.

Conclusion

Your doctor may opt for cesarean surgery to save you and your baby’s life. But, the surgery can leave a scar on your skin. The C section scar can mar your skin’s appearance. But, with better scar management you can make its prominent appearance on the skin to reduce. Once your wound completely closes and the stitches get removed, you can opt the best technique to heal the scar swiftly.

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