Incision Pain Postpartum

Sometimes health issues or risks to a woman and her baby make a Cesarian Section (C-section) necessary. After the baby is born via a C-section, the result is a wound that must heal. Pain and itching are common during this healing process. While most women do not wish for a Cesarean section (C-section), sometimes health issues or risks to you and your baby make a C-section necessary. After the baby is born via a C-section, the result is a wound that must heal. Pain and itching are common during this healing process.

Causes of Incision Pain Postpartum
A C-section creates a physical cut in the abdomen and through the uterus so that the doctor is able to reach baby. That cut is then sewn shut with sutures, or glued together with a sanitary epoxy. As is the case with any wound, healing can be painful and itchy. Even with pain medications, tenderness to the area of surgery is common.

Important Facts About Incision Pain Postpartum
While some incision pain is common, moving, stretching and lifting too soon after a C-section can cause torn sutures and possibly a reopening of the wound. It is important to call a physician immediately if there is any sign of a Cesarean wound opening after leaving the hospital.

Bleeding, discolored discharge, or foul odors are all reasons to seek immediate medical attention. There is always a risk of infection associated with surgery and C-sections are no different. Antibiotics can be used to treat an infection if caught early. Late stage infections can lead to additional health problems and hospitalization.

Treatments for Incision Pain Postpartum
Rest is the most effective treatment. Moving, stretching, lifting, cleaning and cooking are the most common causes of increased incision pain. After a C-section, moms are often given medications to dull the incision pain, but this does not mean increased activity will not cause further pain or ripped sutures. Constipation and gas can also cause pain in the area of the incision. Eating meals slowly, increasing water intake, leaving behind spicy and fatty foods until healed will all help to prevent gas and bloating.