C-Section Scars: 7 Basic Care Steps To Aid Healing

Birth is a miracle of life and one of the toughest things a woman does. She not only risk her own life when she goes into labour but does everything possible to bring her baby safely to this world.

A woman receives many souvenirs, which she wears like a medal when she comes out of the delivery room. Saggy skin, pouching tummy, and a C-section scar are some of them.

One-third of the pregnant women deliver through the C-section. Sometimes it is because the baby is in an awkward position, the contractions are not progressing, or the mother's health condition does not allow her to have a natural birth.

Cesarean section, more commonly known as C-section, is considered quite safe and has now been widely accepted. In contrast to natural delivery or vaginal birth, it is a surgical procedure that ultimately leaves back scars and marks.

Below, we will cover the 2 types of C-section cuts a doctor might perform, the kinds of scars that may form, and also 7 basic care steps to get your C-section on its way to being healed.

2 Types of C-Section Incisions

During a C-section, the surgeon makes two incisions of 4-6 inches, one on the abdomen and the other on the uterus.

There are two types of incision the doctor may choose from;

• CLASSIC CUT: It is a vertical incision that is extended from the belly button to the pubic line. It is performed in cases of emergency. However, it is more painful and leaves behind a more noticeable scar.
• BIKINI CUT: A horizontal or transverse incision that is made onto the lower abdomen. It is the most commonly performed incision that has less bleeding subsequently leads to minimal scarring.

2 Types of C-Section Scars

At times the body's natural healing mechanism is disturbed, which does not allow the C-section incision to heal properly and form an abnormal scar. The two most commonly seen scars are;

• HYPERTROPHIC SCAR: Unlike the normal scars, the skin of a hypertrophic scar is firm, thick, and raised.
• KELOID SCAR: It is a more severe form that occurs when there is an overgrowth of the tissue such that they extend the normal boundary of the incision and give a lumpy appearance.

7 Basic Care Steps For C-Section Healing

Just like any other wound, a C-section incision also requires proper care;

• Hygiene: It is essential to keep the wound clean. One should wash it daily with warm water and apply ointments to avoid possible infections 
• Supplements: WoundVite is a supplement with natural ingredients that speed up the process of wound healing. It is a concoction of  vitamins, minerals, and herbs that also aid in scar reduction and tissue repair. This high-quality product is recommended by multiple doctors and surgeons.
• Loose clothing: clothes that allow air to pass out help in the healing of the wound
• Diet: drink enough fluids and have fruits to avoid constipation that might put a strain on the incision.
• Pain killers: Analgesics like ibuprofen make the process pain-free
• Application of heat: a hot pad reduces pain and soreness
• Avoid exercise: until the doctor suggests the patient should avoid lifting weight, bending over, performing vigorous exercises. 

Conclusion

The C-section incision is made onto the abdomen below the bikini line, which is then extended into the uterus so that the baby can be delivered. The incision is mostly small and fades with time, but it requires proper care to avoid complications just like other wounds.