C-Section Scar Healing Stages: Midwife's Guide To Recovery
Hey there new mamas! Congrats on your little bundle of joy!
For some women, a c-section birth can be the safest way to deliver your baby, but it can also come with some challenges like recovery and scar healing. Don't worry though, with the right care, you can encourage a speedy recovery and lessen scars.
What are the different C-section scar healing stages?
After a C-section, you'll need to give yourself lots of TLC and patience as your body goes through the four stages of healing. It takes about 6-8 weeks to recover, but everyone's body is different.
Here are the four stages of C-section scar healing:
Stage 1: Haemostasis
This is the first stage of healing and it's all about stopping the bleeding. Your body creates a blood clot to seal the cut. This stage usually takes a few days and we recommend keeping the wound clean and dry, avoiding touching it or applying ointments, and wearing loose-fitting clothes.
Stage 2: Inflammation stage
During this stage, your body sends white blood cells to the wound to fight off any infection and remove damaged tissue. It may take about a week and we recommend avoiding strenuous activity, using ice packs to reduce swelling, and taking any prescribed pain medication.
Stage 3: Proliferation stage
This is when the wound starts to close and new tissue begins to form. This stage can last for several weeks and we recommend keeping the wound clean and dry, avoiding activities that put pressure on the wound, and eating a healthy diet.
Stage 4: Maturation stage
The final stage is all about the scar fading and your skin returning to its normal state. This stage can last for several months or even years.
We recommend applying sunscreen to the scar, massaging it to promote blood flow, and using scar creams or oils to keep the skin moisturized.
With a little patience, lots of TLC, and self-care, you'll be on your way to a speedy recovery in no time!
The final stage of C-section scar healing is maturation. At this stage, the wound is fully closed, and the scar begins to fade, this stage can last for several months or even years.
C-Section scar healing statistics
Did you know that more than one in five births are via a c-section, according to the Royal College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (RCOG). That means you're not alone in your healing journey.
The good news is that most women experience complete healing within 6-12 weeks after the procedure. And as your wound heals, you'll notice less redness and swelling, and even see new pink skin underneath the scab - how amazing are our bodies?
Of course, if you experience any unusual symptoms, don't hesitate to contact your doctor. But rest assured that any pain and discomfort you feel will gradually subside as your body heals.
How do I know my C-section scar is healing?
Most C-section scars heal rapidly and have minimal bruising or swelling. Just make sure to keep your incision site clean and dry, and take it easy on abdominal muscles.
But if you do experience any complications, like unusual scarring, don't fret.
The healing process of a C-section scar usually occurs in several stages. Pain and discomfort at the incision site may occur in the first week after the operation, this is normal and should subside as the wound begins to heal.
As the wound heals, you may notice less redness and swelling at the incision site. Also, a scab, or crust, that has formed over the incision site may begin to peel off, revealing new pink skin underneath.
If you experience any unusual symptoms during the healing process it is important to contact your doctor immediately, especially if you experience excessive bleeding, severe pain, or signs of infection.
How long will I be in pain and discomfort?
Most women experience pain and discomfort around the incision site during the first week after a caesarean section. However, this pain should gradually subside as the wound begins to heal.
It is important to see your doctor if you have persistent pain or discomfort. They may be able to prescribe stronger pain relief or recommend other treatments to relieve symptoms.
What can you do to improve C-section scar healing stages?
If you end up with some funky-looking scarring, don't sweat it. You're still a total rockstar! A post-caesarean massage can be good way to aid recovery after a C-section to help your scar heal.
You may also want to invest in a good pair of C-section underwear to improve comfort during your recovery.
Be sure to keep an eye out for any signs of infection, and you'll be back to feeling like yourself in no time.
Scar Types
Hypertrophic scar
Hypertrophic scars are thicker, harder, and usually raised a little more than normal scars, but they stay within the original incision line.
Keloid scar
Keloid scarring occurs when scar tissue extends beyond the boundaries of the original wound, which can result in a mass of scar tissue around the incision.
Common concerns during the C-section scar healing stages
You're not alone if you recently had a c-section and are worried about the recovery process. Here are some common concerns regarding C-Section scars:
C-section scar overhang
Let's talk about the C-section scar overhang. It's when the skin around your scar bulges out.
To minimise this, try to keep a healthy weight, eat a balanced diet, and do some gentle exercises. Counter pressure from good c-section underwear can also help
Hard tissue lumps under C-section
Next up, hard tissue lumps under your scar. Don't worry, it's totally normal to feel some pain and discomfort around your incision site during the first week.
But if it persists, it's best to check in with your doctor or midwife.
Signs of scar infections
Scar infections are also pretty common after C-sections. If you notice redness, swelling, soreness, or warmth around your scar, it might be infected. Don't wait - call your healthcare provider right away!
Internal healing
Your internal healing might take weeks or months, so be patient with yourself. And if you're feeling some pain or itching around your scar, over-the-counter painkillers and anti-itch lotions can help.
Scar itching and pain
You can begin to feel pain and itching as your C-section scar heals. Over-the-counter painkillers and anti-itch lotions can be used to control this common symptom of the healing process.
See your healthcare practitioner, nevertheless, if you develop excruciating pain, swelling, or discharge at the incision site.
Reducing scarring
Last but not least, reducing scarring. You can use silicone gel or sheets to speed up healing, avoid tight clothing that presses against your scar, and keep it clean and dry.
How do I know if my C-section opened inside?
If you're worried about your C-section wound opening up inside, watch out for abdominal pain, fever, and discharge. If you experience any of these symptoms, call your doctor ASAP.
Key takeaways
Let's reframe how you might feel about your c-section scar and help you feel proud of it. It's a small (but mighty!) battle scar that shows how strong you are!
Your body shape, surgical technique, and healing process all play a part in how your scar will look, but most scars heal up nicely over time. If you do end up with a cool-looking keloid or hypertrophic scar, just think of it as a unique piece of body art!
To make sure you heal well, just keep an eye on your scar and follow your doctor's instructions. And if you want to be a total C-section pro, check out C-section UK's courses on prep, birth, and recovery.
You've got this, and we've got you.
Written by: Midwife Laura