How to process a seam after a caesarean section at home?

After the operation to extract the fetus in the lower abdomen of a woman, an unattractive scar remains. Most often, it has the form of a longitudinal fold above the pubis, heals quickly and loses its original bright color. Its length can be about 12-15 centimeters. At the same time, there is another incision, on the uterus. Proper processing of the seam after cesarean section is a very important stage of the postoperative period. This procedure requires responsibility and a competent approach.

First days after childbirth

Over time, the scar becomes less noticeable. At first, it acquires a pronounced crimson hue, which is striking. However, literally within a year it takes the form of a thin pale thread.

During and after a caesarean section, there is always the possibility of developing a bacterial infection. In the postoperative period, this is often caused by improper wound care or neglect of personal hygiene.

Once on the surface of the wound, bacteria immediately begin to multiply. The site of their concentration quickly becomes inflamed. As a result of inflammation of the postoperative suture, the following can be observed:

• the appearance of small painful seals, hot to the touch;
• purulent discharge from the wound, fistulas;
• purulent abscess;
• elevated body temperature

The infection can be fought with antibiotics. In addition, acute inflammation can lead to additional surgical intervention. The use of such methods of treatment is undesirable during breastfeeding, may adversely affect the newborn baby.

There is a possibility of developing another complication. After a caesarean section, the seams may diverge. The reason for this is increased physical activity, improperly selected underwear or premature onset of sexual activity.

The scar on the uterus heals a week after the operation, and a skin scar is formed at the same time. To keep the seam in a healthy state, regular caring care is required.

Postoperative suture care occurs in two stages. At first, experienced nurses help women. Inspection and processing of the seam after cesarean should be carried out daily in the morning. For these purposes, use brilliant green or other antiseptic agents. In addition to disinfecting the wound, the medical staff applies a new sterile dressing daily. Such procedures are carried out until discharge.

Since at first the seam hurts quite noticeably for mothers who gave birth by caesarean section, for some time they have to endure discomfort that intensifies during the treatment of the wound. In order to reduce pain, women are often prescribed painkillers.

As a rule, after a week, the nurse removes the stitches and the bandage. Most often, women are given recommendations on how to process a suture after a cesarean section at home.

After that, the treatment of the scar must necessarily continue for some more period of time. After discharge, women will have to take care of him in their usual home conditions.

How to process a seam after a cesarean at home

The procedure for caring for a postoperative suture at home is quite simple. It includes:

• regular hygiene procedures;
• treatment with antiseptics;
• wearing postpartum appliances;
• moderate physical activity;
• performing special exercises

Compliance with simple rules will help speed up the healing process of the postoperative wound and restore the previous physical form.

Hygiene procedures

If the healing process proceeds satisfactorily, then immediately after the removal of the stitches, women are allowed to take a shower (not a bath!). In this case, you can not rub the scar intensively or use hard washcloths. It is better to wash it with ordinary laundry soap, known for its antiseptic properties.

We must not forget about the careful care of women's intimate places. It is necessary to wash the genitals at least 2 times a day to prevent bacteria from getting inside. It is recommended to carry out independent douching. Miramistin or chlorhexidine are suitable for this purpose.

Treatment with antiseptics

Processing is carried out after taking a shower. First, the scar must be wiped dry with a soft towel. It is important to know how to process the seam after a caesarean section. Zelenka is a traditionally inexpensive and effective antiseptic. It is great for treating wounds and scars. The downside may be the traces she leaves on her underwear. To avoid this, as well as to protect the scar from unwanted contacts, you can attach a sterile disposable napkin to it.

In some cases, instead of brilliant green, chlorhexidine, hydrogen peroxide, a sterile solution of manganese or furacilin are recommended. For the procedure, you can use cotton swabs. Having moistened them in an antiseptic, it is necessary to carefully process the entire seam. Also in the pharmacy you can buy a special nozzle for treating wounds. The procedure is performed daily, the best time for it will be in the morning.

Usually, at discharge, the doctor informs the patient about how much to process the suture after cesarean. Traditionally, manipulations are required within two weeks after suture removal.

In addition, you need to know how to process the seam after cesarean for effective resorption and healing of the scar. Treatment of the suture skin with vitamin E contributes to its greater elasticity and the formation of an inconspicuous scar. A qualified specialist will help you choose an effective drug for resorption of the scar.

Wearing special postpartum appliances

In order to protect the postoperative incision from friction and reduce discomfort, it is recommended to use a special postoperative bandage or slimming postpartum panties. In addition to protection, they will provide a faster recovery of the previous shape of the abdomen.

The bandage does not need to be worn 24 hours a day, you should remember the benefits of regular air baths for the seam.

moderate exercise

The inner seam requires no less maintenance. Its healing occurs quite quickly, within a month. At first, a woman should not lift more than 4 kg and make sudden movements, and in case of discomfort, you should definitely consult a doctor.

Performing special exercises

Six months after the operation, physical exercises pose a threat to the body of the woman who has given birth. In addition, they can affect the production of breast milk. However, in the future, sports will become a great way to restore and improve physical fitness.

At first, it will be useful to sleep in a prone position. This will not only help speed up postpartum uterine contractions, but also strengthen the abdominal muscles.

After cesarean, the following lightweight gymnastic exercises are allowed:

• alternating tension and relaxation of the pelvic muscles;
• retractions of the abdomen and elevations of the pelvis;
• flexion, extension, rotational movements of the arms and feet of the lower extremities;
• body twists and shallow squats

The main attention should be paid to exercises for which you do not need to affect the abdominal muscles. Even the lightest physical exercises are recommended only for those women who have no undesirable complications during the postoperative period.

If during exercise pain or pulling sensations appear, their implementation must be stopped immediately.

During the recovery period, it is necessary to carefully monitor the correct formation of the scar. The healing of the suture after caesarean section proceeds gradually. At first, the surface of the wound is covered with a thin film of newly formed skin cells. Over time, this layer becomes thicker. The pronounced crimson shade of the scar after a few months begins to change its color.

With a change in the color of the scar, the use of cosmetics that help reduce external signs of scarring and heal the suture after cesarean becomes acceptable. For a visual demonstration of the correctness of the procedures for caring for seams, we suggest that you familiarize yourself with a useful video.

Treatment of a postoperative suture (caesarean section) - video