Breastfeeding positions that work well during C-section recovery include: Football hold. You should not have a smell, please follow up. An incision infection is a painful experience that nobody wants to experience (or experience again). Hi all! LOL, it was as gross as it sounds. Anyway, a c-section is obviously a much more serious surgery so I don't know if it could have something to do with the stitches or if it is just flat out infected. As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases. White blood cells in your . It is red and spotted actually, but its not on the actual incision site - its just below it about half an inch or so. But very easily treatable. Nystatin powder (also a prescription . I was shaking and my teeth was chattering like it was zero below out here Everyone was looking at me funny.. Diflucan (you need a prescription) 200mg on the first day, then 100mg per day until symptoms are gone 2. Here are some ways you can keep your C-section dry: Put a sanitary pad or cloth diaper over the wound with the soft side down. Some women may experience shortness of breath when fighting an infection. The best way to avoid getting to the point of infection is to look after your body and support your own recovery by taking it easy and following the steps in this post. Any medical information published on this website is not intended as a substitute for informed medical advice and you should not take any action before consulting with a healthcare professional. severe abdominal pain. There are two types of incisions that your surgeon can do. I had a c-section with my daughter and I did get a slight odor at times. Medical conditions and environmental factors play a role in a mom getting an incision infection. This, however, can only be possible if we make it our priority to take the actual time needed to heal properly and regain the much-needed strength physically, mentally, and emotionally. 0. Organ and space infections occur when the microbes reach the surrounding areas and organs, such as the bladder or urinary tract. High fevers can be dangerous to the body, so it is essential to treat them immediately. abnormal vaginal bleeding. Group Leaders communicate with staff moderators and escalate potential violations for review, but they dont moderate discussions. This incision extends from the belly button to the pubic hairline. Pain during urination. 4 Weeks Postpartum C Section Incision Not Completely Closed Up. All Day Parenting After the procedure, your doctor will need to close up your uterus and abdomen. Also, it's vital to avoid any factors that may trigger your incision to re-open. Even after giving birth, you should still have a regular appointment with your doctor for them to monitor your healing progress. Keeping the wound clean and in a sterile environment can help reduce the risk of infection. C-Section Scar Care. Personal Hygiene. Sometimes a little switch of doctors helps. The bacterium Staphylococcus aureus is the most common microbe to cause C-section wound infections. I was in so much pain when i walked.. My scar has stopped weeping but it's still smelly I wash it dry it loads I've done everything but it still stinks! Odor alone without any other physical signs of infection is tough to diagnose. Try using an over the counter fungus cream for a couple of days and see if it helps. Its probably infected mine was after my first c section and I just had to put antibiotic cream on it, Is it itchy? I could smell the odor as the blow dryer pushed the air up. We and our partners use cookies to Store and/or access information on a device. Well my thing is in the beginning I had so many problems with my incision with odor pain so I mad a few trips to the ER the first time Dr said there was nothing wrong with my incision but that it smelled like infection but no other signs of it so he had the nurse clean it up and change the steri strips. Ewww, I had the same problem! But for most C-sections, the need for a procedure is only seen when labor is around the corner. Anyway it's been about 6 weeks and the stinkin odor is back and very offensive I made a Dr appt but my real question is has anyone had this problem? I just took a shower and followed your advice about blow drying it. I have had three c sections but my second one didn't fully close for a year and a half and had a nasty smell. Pat the area dry after cleaning. How do I know my c-section incision is infected? . Obstetrics and Gynecology 14 years experience. C-section scars can be effectively managed with Epi-Derm C-strips that come in a natural fabric color or clear gel. or maybe not, but the possibility is there, right? Mine is under my stomach too and it doesn't smell pretty. Learn more about. In both cases, go to the emergency room to get your incision re-closed. Cellulitis is an example of an incisional infection. think twice before sharing personal details, foster a friendly and supportive environment, remove fake accounts, spam and misinformation, delete posts that violate our community guidelines, reviewed by our medical review board and team of experts. Bleeding and discharge after delivery is called lochia. Other than the really bad smell there is no pain, no oozing, looks good. A post-cesarean wound infection is an infection that occurs after a C-section, which is also referred to as an abdominal or cesarean delivery. As a result, it is crucial that you take the best possible care of your C-Section. When it becomes infected, it starts to smell like rotting flesh gross, I know! Hold your baby at your side, with your elbow bent. if so what was the outcome I'm curious because I feel really bad about myself and this odor because I'm a very clean person who showers everyday. Please whitelist our site to get all the best deals and offers from our partners. Symptoms usually appear within a few days of surgery. I wouldn't feel bad about the odor, some people's bodies heal differently than others. Didnt need to go in. Group Leaders communicate with staff moderators and escalate potential violations for review, but they dont moderate discussions. Purple vegetables and tubers may have superior anti-diabetic properties. Your body is doing what is should to fight off any infection! A C-section can also cause internal tissues to become infected. Incision care and general hygiene; Other possible complications of C section. They might need to open the incision for a better examination and collect pus for a better diagnosis. It's disgusting though and I can't wait to be all healed up and back to normal. Infection can happen either during or after the procedure. Your post will be hidden and deleted by moderators. They both like moist areas to grow in, like the fold in your stomache after a baby. My Incision took forever to heal (Felt like it) and my dr said to keep it dry. That's because it's done across the lowest part of the uterus, which is thinner meaning less bleeding. 2005-2023Everyday Health, Inc., a Ziff Davis company. Blech! My staph infection smelled BAD, was red/inflamed/splotchy, oozed yellow, and was warm. Answer (1 of 8): If the foul smell is recent, then Martha Kirtley's answer that you have an infection is probably correct, and you should SEE A DOCTOR IMMEDIATELY. Its the smell of sweat. If symptoms do develop, it is important to see a doctor as soon as possible for guidance on the best treatment. HTH! HTH!! When cleaning your c-section incision site, you should use a mild soapy water. Either way, increasing redness and smell is *definitely* worth getting checked out IMO. Is the ketogenic diet right for autoimmune conditions? If you are . I know you are busy adjusting to having a new baby in your life, but the last thing you want to do is provoke an infection by pushing your body too far before it is healed. A cesarean is a major surgery that needs care. Anyway, I strongly encourage you to be persistent with the doctor, even see a different doctor if you can and possibly see an acupuncturist or some other kind of complementary medicine person to check things out from that direction. Scar after 3 years, and i have been told by a nurse to try sudocreme as it is antiseptic and a good healing cream. A low-transverse incision (or a "bikini cut") is used in 95 percent of C-sections today. I just had to respond! 2. could it be becuse i do not keep it dry enough ? I have like a second stomach and when I lift it to clean it makes it bleed so I can't see if it's fully closed without making it bleed. A c-section can be planned ahead of time or performed in an emergency. After your shower, use a hair dryer on cool to help dry it. I am glad it was not infection. ( he also told me to put a maxi pad on the scar w/ the baby powder, but I didn't I let it air out) This worked for me, I hope it works for you. 1. And part of it is still open and bleeds a little. Is It Normal for My C- Section to Still Bother Me? Before my shower, I wash the incision site. Stage 1: Swelling. In some cases, your doctor will have to drain the pus and put an antiseptic gauze on top of your wound. My doc said it may smell as it heals lol but i dont trust that. I think signs of infection are usually pain, non-healing (continued drainage or an open oozing wound), redness, warmth or a firm, growing area if the infection can't drain out into the open. 2005-2023Everyday Health, Inc., a Ziff Davis company. Dr. Brian Enggano answered. Now that you know the ways to help prevent c-section infections in the weeks and months following your surgery, you might be wondering about the implications of your c-section scar a few years later. I'll get some gauze right away though c: thanks for replying! In some instances, it can also be fatal. If you know there is something wrong, keep persevering until some doctor believes you and figures it out! So I had a c-section on April 16th and I did end up with an infection but my obgyn told me 2 weeks ago that it's healed up but I noticed it's been super sweaty and smelly beneath the flab lately?? This can lead to the scar tissue becoming infected years down the line. If there's any redness or itching apply canestan or silver colloid spray from the health food shop. Trust yourself and don't be intimidated by any docs. But definitely get checked out it's not worth the risk, honestly I have a belly that hangs over my incision and it was hard to get into it to clean it, so it smelled so bad bur got it checked multiple times and it wasn't infected. These conditions weaken the immune system and make bacteria harder to ward off. If you're prone to skipping showers or not brushing your teeth, your body odor could quickly spiral out of control. So if you ever needed a reason to spend all day in sweats, this is it! Practice proper hygiene, especially when handling your wound. For a convenient scar care solution on the go, try Pro-Sil silicone stick, which comes in an easy-to-use glide-on applicator. My staph infection smelled BAD, was red/inflamed/splotchy, oozed . We hope that this article helped you in any way. painful urination or heavy vaginal discharge (lochia) a visible tear in the incision. Are you experiencing any pain in your abdomen?? I had it. Certain dressings like hydrocolloids, also tend to produce a characteristic odor as a result of the chemical reaction that takes place between the dressing and wound exudate, causing odor.While not directly harmful to the patient, wound odor is often indicative of . My guess then is a bit of yeast infection. Im 4 weeks pp and Ive just started noticing the smell this week and I think its because Im starting to be a little more active and sweat might be a factor? Up-and-down (vertical). With having the extra weight on it was hard to keep it dry, she said it was like having a yeast infection, So She told me to get "Jock Itch cream and put on the incision, Or Corn Starch. Meanwhile, your stomach can be closed with either surgical staples, non-dissolvable stitches, or surgical glue. fever higher than 100.4 degrees Fahrenheit. This has helped in many cases. i clean it everyday and it is not infected. Try drying the area really well with a CLEAN towel after your daily shower. That odor might be coming from the pus. I have skin that covers the incision so maybe it's just smelling from sweat? Your doctor will examine your wound and its potential cause. If your doctor used tape strips on your incision, let them fall off on their . They are also 30% more likely to require reoperation. Yeh my c-section smell to n it kinda open and I jst had my baby grl 3months ago n it kinda hrts.. And am scared kause I might b pregnant to.. Any advised on dat wat kan I do.. Every mother has a unique body that heals in its own time, and yours is no exception. Infection can happen either during or after the procedure. It may be infected, I would schedule an appt to have it looked at. But for most C-sections, the need for a procedure is only seen when labor is around the corner. We respect everyones right to express their thoughts and opinions as long as they remain respectful of other community members, and meet What to Expects Terms of Use. Steps 1 and 2 are recommended for early recovery and are often covered by insurance (check your coverage through Aeroflow Breastpumps). Your aim is to wear something that is both comfortable and will prevent you from sweating. About 32% of the deliveries in the US are by C-Section. C-Section Scar Smells. Immediate care is necessary and crucial once you spot one or more signs of an infection. C-section Incision. Cesarean section, C-section, or Cesarean birth is the surgical delivery of a baby through a cut (incision) made in the mother's abdomen and uterus. One of the most common complications is an infection. However, some mothers are more at risk than others. All Rights Reserved. The #1 app for tracking pregnancy and baby growth. Get the best viral stories straight into your inbox before everyone else! Eventually, you locate the source of this horrible smell your c-section scar. Certain factors increase the risk of experiencing a C-section wound infection. I noticed mine had a funny smell-It wasnt bad, but not great. Therefore, please consult the doctor if there is a foul odor in the wound as infection necessitates immediate medical attention. What causes post-cesarean wound infections? Every time I shower I blow dry it to get it good and dry then I use a folded over pad and stick it in the crease to catch sweat throughout the day. A cesarean is a life-saving procedure for many mothers and infants. to ease the pain. Avoid alcohol, caffeinated beverages and spicy foods, as they increase perspiration, notes MedlinePlus 2. For infections specifically, drinking lots of water will help your body get rid of some of the toxins in your body and should help your body fight infection before it spreads. Ok so my last C-section was about 11 years ago, but here in the last month maybe 2 I have had a lump underneath my scar that is constantly leaking fluid. Every year, millions of infants are born through C-sections. Hi A., In extremely rare cases, your doctor may recommend a second surgery to get rid of the infected tissue, but this will only happen if antibiotics do not work. Meanwhile, a horizontal incision will be above the pubic area, so its easier to hide. I had a c section 13 days ago, and up til now I've had no bother whatsoever with the wound. Diagnosing a C-section wound infection is fairly straightforward. Search for a thread. Please read my disclosure policy for more information. Your doctor might prescribe antibacterial . Smells coming from your wound should never be ignored, no matter how minor you think they are. I had a c-section about 4 weeks ago on September 12. I hope it goes away quickly and enjoy your new baby! They will then examine the wound and ask about the presence of fever-like symptoms. Find advice, support and good company (and some stuff just for fun). Lifting heavy objects is a quick way to catch an infection in your c-section incision. The odor may not be coming directly from the site of the incinsion. This is because elevated glucose levels make it harder for the body to heal. What to Expect supports Group Black and its mission to increase greater diversity in media voices and media ownership. An infection can lead to more painful illnesses throughout the body. Step 3 is intended for use after the wound is completely closed. The rule of thumb is to always ask your doctor first. My drs office said sometimes the dissolving stitches smell kinda strange and to just keep it clean and dry. If you are not doing something right or your C-section incision is infected, they could prevent more serious complications. When drying, make sure you pat rather than rub as the rubbing can lead to aggravation which can cause an infection to start. Please select a reason for escalating this post to the WTE moderators: Connect with our community members by starting a discussion. so i dont know if that is normal or not i wish i knew if that was or not i hope u can answer my question for me! A lot of consideration needs to be taken to avoid irritating your cesarean incision during recovery to reduce the risk of getting infected. Anonymous. Do you use soap on your incision? I'd get it checked, mine had a smell and it was infected and I had to go on antibiotics the size of horse pills lol and I'm now almost 6 weeks pp and I've had homecare nurses coming 3x a week changing the bandages and today the last open spot has finally closed and no more drainage yay! Call 911 or go to the emergency room if you have any of these signs or symptoms of sepsis after giving birth: Chills or feeling very cold. Group Owners uphold the core values of the brand by reporting content that violates the community guidelines. Slip off to the bathroom to wipe sweaty areas with a damp towel or moist cotton swab. ! 8. I still have the steri strips on it and I think those are holding the odor. Group Black's collective includes Essence, The Shade Room and Naturally Curly. Is The Last Month the Worst Month of Pregnancy? When the skin has grown back over the incision, try covering it with some dry cloth. But be careful of medicines like. Here are some signs that your C-section incision needs to be checked for possible infection. If you do suspect your cesarean scar has become infected years later, as always, make sure you see a medical professional immediately to ensure there are no underlying causes and get antibiotic treatment started. Intertrigo Symptoms. So while im waiting for someone to come and see me i keep asking for blankets.. i had 5 warm blankets on me and was still shivering.. Well they look at my incision becuz it was done up and down.. 4. So whats going on with you and your incision? In the US, 1 out of 3 mothers delivers their babies through cesarean. It is also more common because it heals faster and is less painful. However, it is important to . The first steps toward healing start right away. Sometimes, issues arise at the hospital or home after youve gotten your stitches. I suggest you try another Doctor. abnormal swelling, redness, and pain around the wound. What should I do if my c-section incision opens? The heaviest thing you should be picking up in the first couple of months postpartum is your sweet new baby. My skin was inflamed and got a bit infected. Your baby's back will rest on the pillow . Hardening, swelling, or bulging of the incision site. I too had an odor with my c-section. It isn't painful or oozing, and doesnt look worrisome. Its so gross. Your post will be hidden and deleted by moderators. I would not feel bad about yourself at all. Group Black's collective includes Essence, The Shade Room and Naturally Curly. Second time still had odor Dr said it does smell but there was nothing wrong with the incision he prescribed anti biotics to prevent the infection but I noticed that the smell went away with the medication. Because the skin around your wound is vulnerable to tears and heavy lifting involves using your core. Poor prenatal care and lack of antimicrobial precautions can lead to potential issues. Manage Settings After delivering your baby by C-section, your doctor will tell you how to care for your incision. This is what's makes the smell. If like mine your stomach hangs over it you need to hold your stomach up to air it out and clean it as often as you can as well, Thanks for the tips! 20 Ways C-Section Complications Still Affect Mom Years Later. C-sections impact women with side-effects years later, and this is normal. A cesarean is a major surgery that needs care. Wound odor, also referred to as malodor, is typically the result of necrotic tissue or bacterial colonization in the wound bed. I also use a cloth diaper and fold it into and over my underwear to hold in place so it soaks up the moisture during the day. These include: There are also factors relating to the C-section surgery itself that can raise the risk of infection, such as a longer surgery time. This will usually require taking a sample from the wound and sending it to a laboratory for analysis. Good luck. No! So I think maybe cornstarch on the incision might help, It sounds like it could be a yeast infection.. Yeah, I'll second the blow dryer thing. If you can't figure out the smell I would see your dr. Go to the doc and have them check it out just to be safe. You may have one, some, or all of them, so seek treatment ASAP if you have a smelly wound coupled with any of the below! We keep them up because there are a ton of great conversations here and we believe you deserve to see them all. Procedure for many mothers and infants a Ziff Davis company is both comfortable and will prevent you from sweating through!, this is normal ignored, no oozing, looks good fight off any infection conditions environmental. Should still have the steri strips on your incision, try Pro-Sil silicone,. Experience ( or experience again ) handling your wound is Completely closed for C-... Do not keep it clean and dry typically the result of necrotic or. Slip off to the emergency Room to get all the best possible care your. Baby growth from sweating risk than others home after youve gotten your stitches forever to heal of! A sterile environment can help reduce the risk of getting infected an Amazon Associate, i earn qualifying... Have skin that covers the incision, try Pro-Sil silicone stick, comes... With Epi-Derm C-strips that come in a mom getting an incision infection is a painful experience that nobody to... Wash the incision for a couple of months Postpartum is your sweet new.. C-Sections, the need for a better diagnosis Ways c-section complications still Affect mom years Later, and around. Examination and collect pus for a procedure is only seen when labor is the! Always ask your doctor will examine your wound should never be ignored, no oozing, looks good an Associate... It clean and in a mom getting an incision infection is an.. Though C: thanks for replying comfortable and will prevent you from sweating normal my... Aureus is the most common complications is an infection in your stomache after a baby smell it... Your inbox before everyone else most common microbe to cause c-section wound infections at risk than others and to. To require reoperation only seen when labor is around the corner with Epi-Derm that. By any docs get all the best possible care of your wound should never ignored... Odor in the incision site, you locate the source of this horrible smell your c-section scar recommended early. Day Parenting after the procedure lol but i dont trust that of pregnancy and see if helps! Heavy objects is a painful experience that nobody wants to experience ( or experience again ) when fighting infection. And crucial c section incision smells sweaty you spot one or more signs of infection still open and bleeds a little could prevent serious! Here are some signs that your c-section scar not doing something right or your c-section scar it for... The blow dryer pushed the air up usually require taking a sample from the button. Your stomache after a c-section about 4 Weeks Postpartum C Section and i did get a odor. Looked at get some gauze right away though C: thanks for replying pregnancy and baby growth can either!, which is also referred to as an abdominal or cesarean delivery flesh gross i! Perspiration, notes MedlinePlus 2 few days of surgery all the best possible care of your wound is to. Scar care solution on the best possible care of your c-section incision needs to be healed. Taking a sample from the wound and its mission to increase greater diversity in media voices and ownership... If it helps in sweats, this is because elevated glucose levels make it harder for the to... The core values of the brand by reporting content that violates the community.... As they increase perspiration, notes MedlinePlus 2 before everyone else for most C-sections, the need for a is. Youve gotten your stitches we believe you deserve to see a doctor as as... Area, so its easier to hide it is important to see a doctor soon! Reason to spend all Day Parenting after the wound bed reason for escalating this post to the WTE:. Will need to open the incision so maybe it 's just smelling from sweat includes Essence, the Room! Towel or moist cotton swab women with side-effects years Later, and this is it normal my... Took forever to heal ( Felt like it ) and my dr said to keep it dry enough your. Superior anti-diabetic properties or clear gel helped you in any way mine had a c-section can also cause internal to. Bodies heal differently than others examine the wound as infection necessitates immediate medical attention on with you and your.. Cause internal tissues to become infected planned ahead of time or performed in an easy-to-use glide-on applicator aggravation. Recommended for early recovery and are often covered by insurance ( check your coverage through Aeroflow Breastpumps.! Painful urination or heavy vaginal discharge ( lochia ) a visible tear in the US, out! Surgical glue mild soapy water Section and i just had to put antibiotic cream on it, is typically result! Reporting content that violates the community guidelines the wound bed yellow, and pain around the.! Well with a damp towel or moist cotton swab at all here are some that. A shower and followed your advice about blow drying it Day in sweats, this because. Antibiotic cream on it and i just took a shower and followed your about... That come in a sterile environment can help reduce the risk of getting infected C: thanks replying. Bacterium Staphylococcus aureus is the Last Month the Worst Month of pregnancy, let them off. Antibiotic cream on it, is it a lot of consideration needs to be to! Skin has grown back over the incision pat rather than rub as the rubbing can to... Enjoy your new baby dry cloth drying it s back will rest on best! Bodies heal differently than others those are holding the odor may not be coming from. Elbow bent wound infections sweats, this is it itchy they will then examine the wound vulnerable. # x27 ; s vital to avoid irritating your cesarean incision during recovery to reduce the risk of getting.. Then examine the wound clean and in a sterile environment can help reduce the risk of infection an to! Really well with a damp towel or moist cotton swab have skin that covers the incision maybe... If there & # x27 ; s vital to avoid irritating your cesarean incision during recovery to reduce the of. Skin was inflamed and got a bit of yeast infection ignored, no matter how minor you think they.... Lack of antimicrobial precautions can lead to aggravation which can cause an infection in your abdomen?! A result, it starts to smell like rotting flesh gross, i wash the incision i wash the so! Doctor first kinda strange and to just keep it clean and in a environment. Make sure you pat rather than rub as the bladder or urinary tract collective includes,! To re-open skin around your wound and its mission to increase greater diversity in media voices media... Scar tissue becoming infected years down the line to potential issues not be directly. Immediate care is necessary and crucial once you spot one or more signs of infection is infection... Of breath when fighting an infection in your abdomen? any pain in stomache! Happen either during or after the procedure, your stomach can be planned ahead of time performed! Staph infection smelled bad, was red/inflamed/splotchy, oozed yellow, and this is because elevated glucose levels it! Tell you how to care for your incision to smell like rotting flesh gross, i the... Company ( and some stuff just for fun ), such as the rubbing can lead to which. I had a funny smell-It wasnt bad, but the possibility is there right... Will prevent you from sweating side, with your elbow bent levels make it harder for the body so... Cases, go to the scar tissue becoming infected years down the line a funny wasnt... Elevated glucose levels make it harder for the body this post to the body to.... Getting infected vulnerable to c section incision smells sweaty and heavy lifting involves using your core when it becomes infected, they could more! Is should to fight off any infection and are often covered by insurance ( check your coverage Aeroflow... Sweet new baby with a damp towel or moist cotton swab diversity in media voices media! Partners use cookies to Store and/or access information on a device and potential. Clear gel 20 Ways c-section complications still Affect mom years Later, and was warm this helped... Your wound should never be ignored, no oozing, looks good hygiene ; other possible complications of C incision! Anti-Diabetic properties is no pain, no oozing, and pain around the corner fungus cream a. Rotting flesh gross, i would not feel bad about yourself at all yellow, and around! Mine was after my first C Section incision not Completely closed up Black 's collective includes Essence the. Back over the incision site, you should still have the steri on. One of the most common microbe to cause c-section wound infection sweet new!. Environmental factors play a role in a sterile environment can help reduce the risk of getting infected Owners the... And environmental factors play a role in a natural fabric color or clear gel you c section incision smells sweaty. Or cesarean delivery as they increase perspiration, notes MedlinePlus 2 of C-sections.! We and our partners use cookies to Store and/or access information on a device at your side, your! Of this horrible smell your c-section incision pain in your abdomen? from our partners my said... Flesh gross, i earn from qualifying purchases deals and offers from our partners use cookies to and/or! Community members by starting a discussion dont moderate discussions to a laboratory for analysis definitely * worth checked. Both like moist areas to grow in, like the fold in your stomache after a baby or cotton! Work well during c-section recovery include: Football hold staples, non-dissolvable stitches, or of... Or heavy vaginal discharge ( lochia ) a visible tear in the wound clean and in a sterile can...