The arrival of a newborn is always a reason for joy, but it is also challenging: during the weeks or months following birth, you have to dedicate a lot of care and attention. That said, it is essential that new mothers also think about themselves, especially if they have undergone a caesarean section. Caesarean section is a delicate surgical procedure that affects the abdominal area. Consequently, it is important that the mother has the opportunity to rest properly and cope with the healing period appropriately. To take care of the cut, make sure you take all necessary steps to treat the incision, clean the area surrounding the scar and keep it under control. If you notice any symptoms associated with an infection, see your gynecologist immediately.
Steps
Method 1 of 3: Heal the Scar Left by the Caesarean Section
Step 1. Listen to and follow your gynecologist's instructions
Following the surgery, your doctor will give you all the instructions you need to take care of the incision. It is very important to listen carefully and follow every single indication to the letter. You certainly don't want to go back to the hospital to treat an infection that you could have avoided.
Step 2. Cover the scar with a bandage
Once the incision has been made, the scar is covered with a sterile gauze for the first 24 hours in order to counteract the risk of infection. The doctor will apply the bandage after the procedure is completed. It will then be removed by the gynecologist himself or by a nurse 24 hours after the operation.
Step 3. Take anti-inflammatories
Once the procedure is complete, you will be given anti-inflammatories or analgesics immediately to combat the swelling and pain caused by the surgery. These medicines do not affect breastfeeding and should be taken to facilitate healing. Make sure you follow the instructions exactly.
Some doctors encourage new mothers to apply ice packs to the wound in the first 24 hours to reduce swelling
Step 4. After the operation, stay in bed for 12-18 hours
After the surgery you will need to rest for at least half a day. During this time, you will be connected to a catheter, so you don't have to get up to go to the bathroom. It is essential to rest for as long as recommended for the body to have a chance to heal and recover. With the catheter removed, you should get up and try to walk. Moving around can promote healing of the affected area, as it promotes blood circulation.
Step 5. Before you leave the hospital, wait for the stitches to be removed
Before you are discharged (usually about 4 days after delivery), the gynecologist will remove the stitches from the incision. If you have used absorbable sutures, then they will fall out on their own, without you needing to remove them.
Step 6. Expose the incision to air
Once the bandages have been removed, it is important to let the cut breathe to promote proper healing. This doesn't mean you have to leave your belly uncovered all day. Instead, avoid wearing tight clothes, as this will facilitate air circulation in the scar area.
Step 7. Do not lift heavy objects
In the first few weeks after surgery, you should avoid exertion. It is advisable not to lift anything that is heavier than the baby. In this way you will not irritate the area of the incision and you will not cause tears due to excessive physical exertion. Avoid doing intense, vigorous activities for at least 4 to 6 weeks to help promote proper healing.
Step 8. Ask your doctor if he recommends applying creams to the affected area
Some gynecologists recommend applying antibacterial ointments to scar tissue to promote healing. Others believe it is preferable not to use any products. Your doctor will be able to advise you on how to proceed in your specific case.
You can start applying moisturizers to the affected area 6 weeks after the operation
Method 2 of 3: Clean the Scar
Step 1. Avoid taking a bath
Immediately after the operation, avoid submerging the affected area in water. This means you shouldn't bathe or swim. Ask your gynecologist how long to wait before you can shower.
Step 2. Wash the affected area with a mild soap
When it is time to shower, wash the scar by letting soapy water run over the area of the incision. Do not rub it, otherwise you risk causing irritation and lacerations.
Once the incision has started to heal (usually within a few weeks), you can start washing regularly again
Step 3. Dry off when you get out of the shower
When you finish washing, gently pat the area around the scar. Don't rub it vigorously, or you may irritate it.
Method 3 of 3: Controlling the Scar
Step 1. Check the scar every day
You should get used to examining the affected area on a daily basis. Make sure the flaps of skin don't separate. If you notice any bleeding, green discharge or pus, see your gynecologist immediately.
All of these could be symptoms of infection
Step 2. Touch the scar
Upon leaving the hospital, the incision should feel soft to the touch, but you may notice some hardening as the days go by. It is an absolutely normal phenomenon.
Step 3. Check the scar in the first year
About a month after giving birth, it may appear slightly darker. This is normal, but the color will gradually begin to fade. At some point, approximately 6-12 months after the procedure, the scar will stop altering.
