Cesarean section, postpartum, and scar care - Women's Unit

Cesarean section, postpartum and scar care

A cesarean section is performed through a transverse incision two centimeters below the pubic bone, and the cosmetic result is very satisfactory . However, it's important to follow specific care guidelines to promote optimal wound healing and proper recovery of the abdominal muscles. We'll discuss these guidelines in this article, but first, let's get into the basics.

When is a cesarean section performed?

Cesarean sections are performed when vaginal deliveries are contraindicated. Their use is becoming increasingly common, and the reasons that may lead an obstetrician to perform this surgical intervention, or a mother to request it, are very diverse. They can range from the care of the woman's pelvic floor to maternal fear of childbirth or simply the mother's wish.

When it is the woman herself who, after being informed of the pros and cons of the different types of birth, decides that she prefers this alternative, we are faced with a 'caesarean section on demand'. This is not always accepted by all healthcare systems, as it generally involves more costs than a vaginal birth.

Measuring the small incision of a cesarean section

What risks does it entail?

Some patients, after a complication during vaginal delivery or for no apparent reason, request a cesarean section. However, although cesarean sections have a very low rate of maternal and fetal complications, there are specific risks associated with them . For this reason, a cesarean section is only indicated when there is a justifiable reason to perform it.

The first risk is the inherent risk of anesthesia , as with any surgery. It is true that, currently, the use of epidural anesthesia allows the mother to remain awake throughout the procedure. It also prevents babies from needing resuscitation, as was the case with general anesthesia.

However, as we mentioned, there are other possible risks associated with a cesarean section, which Dr. Isabel Rodríguez-Piñero , a specialist in the Women's Unit, explains to us.

Increased risk of endometritis, i.e., a uterine infection.
Possibility of postpartum hemorrhage: In 18% of cesarean sections, patients lose more than 1,5 liters of blood, and around 2%-4% of them require a subsequent transfusion.
There is an increased risk of hollow viscus injury: the bowel or bladder may be injured.
Increased risk of complications and infections in the surgical wound.
Increased risk of complications and surgical wound infections.
Increased risk of paralytic ileus, a blockage in the intestine caused by the intestine taking longer than normal to reposition itself, which occurs in 10% of cases.
Consequences of antibiotic use…
Respiratory problems in babies.

Psychological consequences can also occur as the natural response mechanism during childbirth is disrupted. Other long-term effects are more common in women who have received insufficient information. For this reason, it is very important to seek out a center that offers comprehensive counseling with top-level specialists.

The World Health Organization (WHO) echoes the recommendation that professionals have routinely considered regarding the ideal cesarean rate. This "should range between 10 and 15%." However, it also reports that there are no studies of sufficient scientific rigor that link this intervention with increased stillbirths, maternal and perinatal morbidity, or psychological or social well-being, which questions the very low recommended rates of caesarean sections.

Mother holding her newborn baby in her arms

Postpartum care after a cesarean section

Just as with a vaginal birth, it is not recommended to maintain sexual intercourse until they pass 6 weeks after delivery and under prior medical approval.

Likewise, the specialist will recommend when to resume daily activities. Although, as a general rule, this Reactivation of routine should be carried out as soon as possible. The objective will be to stimulate muscular and mental recovery.

It is considered that walk It can help prevent blood clots and promote bowel movements. Although the woman may be forced to do this activity for the first few days, slightly inclined forward to minimize discomfort.

Protecting the scar in the days following surgery is essential. Therefore, it is recommended support your abdomen with both hands when coughing or sneezing, as it increases intra-abdominal pressure.

Once the stitches removed, the application of gels, patches or essential oils It will be very positive to reduce the inflammatory reaction and improve healing in order to stimulate the sensory recovery of the area and avoid abnormalities in healing, such as hypertrophic or keloid scars.

It is not generally recommended pregnancy to past 6 to 12 months, as long as the intervention and postoperative period have been normal.

Problems during the postoperative period after a cesarean section and when to see a doctor

If bleeding is excessive, the need to urinate persists for more than a month, legs ache, breasts become red and hard or nipples become swollen, fever rises, the scar swells, reddens, has pus or hurts more than usual, or vaginal discharge with a strong and unpleasant odor appears, it is recommended to see a doctor urgently.

On the contrary, noticing a lack of sensitivity around the scar during the first few days is very common and should not be a cause for concern.

Cesarean section, postpartum and scar care