Ugh no IVs D: had one during the delivery and it was terrible made a call to my doctor and seeing him tomorrow - thank you for the reply! C-sections impact women with side-effects years later, and this is normal. If your incision is infected, there are usually a few tell-tale signs in your body that may help you recognize it. Sepsis can be life-threatening. There are multiplereasons why your doctor would call for an emergency c-section. This is classic for a skin yeast infection, so it is unfortunate that the anti-fungal cream did not work. Doctors usually advise waiting at least 6 weeks, however, An incisional hernia is a rare complication of a C-section. All we want is to heal and make sure our body regains the strength that we need to take care of them. The rash can itch, burn, and sting. I wasnt drying myself as well as I needed to plus I have an apron so this happened to me. 2. A Group Leader is a What to Expect community member who has been selected by our staff to help maintain a positive, supportive tone within a group. High fevers can be dangerous to the body, so it is essential to treat them immediately. Don't use powders.). Group Leaders communicate with staff moderators and escalate potential violations for review, but they dont moderate discussions. If the c-section smells and has a discharge of pus, you may be dealing with an infection. 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. See last answer. If your doctor used tape strips on your incision, let them fall off on their . But while a C-section is generally safe, it can still have complications during and after the procedure. Different causes can lead to different types of infection, such as cellulitis or urinary tract infections. Can you tell if your c-section internal stitches have ruptured. Here is a list of some things you could do to make sure your C-section wound heals as soon as your body would allow it: The postpartum period is probably one of the most challenging times as a mother, and we just want to recover and feel ourselves again. I put it down to how my c section pouch basically completely flops over it (sorry.sounds gross) making it hot which would make sense . After delivering your baby by C-section, your doctor will tell you how to care for your incision. Please select a reason for escalating this post to the WTE moderators: Connect with our community members by starting a discussion. The stench emanating from the incision area of the C-section is a clear sign of infection. Find advice, support and good company (and some stuff just for fun). When I wiped it there was a yellow something every time I cleaned it. . Is it possible that you are not letting it dry COMPLETELY when you shower? Learn more about the connection between C-sections and endometriosis, Medical News Today has strict sourcing guidelines and draws only from peer-reviewed studies, academic research institutions, and medical journals and associations. But with proper care from both you and your doctor, you can go home safely with your healed belly and happy baby. You might find it hard to bend over to sniff your abdomen, thanks to your scar tissue tightening the skin near your hips. They didn't tell me to, but I used neosporin anti biotic creme on the incision cite to protect it from infection as a precaution. Personal Hygiene. 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! It is red and spotted actually, but its not on the actual incision site - its just below it about half an inch or so. Related Post: Lifting Toddler After C Section. 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! abnormal swelling, redness, and pain around the wound. I called the dr and waiting for a call back. This article will discuss signs of C-section wound infections, as well as some prevention tips. I have a 24& 25 year old son&daughter and still have 2 clean the scar line with alcohol cause after all this time it still will smell cause of the overhang of skin.i am only 120 lbs. All rights reserved. Get the best viral stories straight into your inbox before everyone else! A C-section is a major surgical procedure. Blood vessels in the area of the cut begin to form clots that keep you from losing too much blood. Every year, millions of infants are born through C-sections. If symptoms do develop, it is important to see a doctor as soon as possible for guidance on the best treatment. Ewww, I had the same problem! A cesarean is a major surgery that needs care. If you would like to change your settings or withdraw consent at any time, the link to do so is in our privacy policy accessible from our home page.. Your mind may find itself running to the worst-case scenario, putting even more stress on you in an already stressful situation. Most pregnant women aren't exactly lining up to give birth via caesarian section, but C-sections happen pretty often. I have also used a wipe gently to freshen up. Because the skin around your wound is vulnerable to tears and heavy lifting involves using your core. And weird smells after a C-section are a red flag. HTH!! Create an account or log in to participate. In some cases, your doctor will have to drain the pus and put an antiseptic gauze on top of your wound. Follow the instructions on the bottle as to how to dilute it. That was last week and the smell has lessened considerably.I just keep it clean, and I put a pantyliner against it in my undies to absorb any moisture. Were proud to be a team of writers who are truly passionate about all things health.Coming together from all parts of the world, we share a common goal of helping serve many with our comprehensive research and clear writing style. Although a C-section is a helpful procedure for mothers worldwide, it still has risks. So if you ever needed a reason to spend all day in sweats, this is it! Is It Normal for My C- Section to Still Bother Me? A C-section can also cause internal tissues to become infected. Group Leaders arent expected to spend any additional time in the community, and are not held to a set schedule. Use of this site is subject to our terms of use and privacy policy. Sometimes a little switch of doctors helps. White blood cells in your . Use warm, soapy water to wash your incision daily (usually when you shower). In most cases, you will be given antibiotics by your doctor. If you have a smell that follows you around wherever you go and persists even after showering, it is pretty reasonable to assume it is coming from your scar. The rash extends just beyond where opposing skin folds overlap. It could be a yeast infection or fungus. Nystatin powder (also a prescription . You check the babys diaper for poop, but its bone dry. Yeah, I'll second the blow dryer thing. Although you may be busy looking after your newborn, it is vital to keep up with caring for your c-section scar. These include shivers, sneezing, coughing, extreme fatigue, and nausea. This article was originally published on May 29, 2018. They are also 30% more likely to require reoperation. Women who had at least one Cesarean are 50% more likely to need a hysterectomy later in life than those who only had vaginal births. Signs of an infected C-section incision include: Redness around the incision. Endometritis. This care should include: Do: Keeping the area dry and clean. I just gave birth 6 weeks ago and my incision became infected before I left the hospital.I reported foul odor, extreme pain and ample drainage.I was told that the drainage and pain were normal and that the odor was from me having extra skin lying over the incision and sweating . 0. After your shower dry off and have someone literally blow dry that area. Its so gross. It is usually red and swelling and if your incision is properly clean or healing then it should not be any of those. The incision is fine, there's just a smell to it. A vertical incision is quicker and often the option for emergency procedures. I wouldn't feel bad about the odor, some people's bodies heal differently than others. Uncommon: Sometimes, women feel an incision will "itch" after a c-section. I agree with the hairdryer, it works very well for me. A cesarean section (or C-section) is a very common, well-established operation that many people have when delivering a baby. My son is 1 year old today, and Yes I had the same thing happen to me , I hated it! One of the most common complications is an infection. It may open slightly or significantly. Lifting heavy objects is a quick way to catch an infection in your c-section incision. Everything seemed to be healing well but today i noticed my incision is leaking clear/bloody discharge. It can either be administered through IV or taken orally. asks from Frisco, TX on September 02, 2009 5 answers. If it is fungus it might just provide a great medium to grow in. Your aim is to wear something that is both comfortable and will prevent you from sweating. Also, when no one was home I would lie on the couch or on the bed, on my back and let it kind of air out for a few minutes, or as long as my daughter would let me. To the eye, it's dark black, when it should be fleshy and pink. 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. The infection can be incisional, or it can be an organ or space infection. Intertrigo Symptoms. Once I started doing this, the smell has gone away. Your post will be hidden and deleted by moderators. Well, 18 days PP I developed a yeast infection on the incision. Are you experiencing any pain in your abdomen?? If properly cleaned regularly, your scar should not smell bad or look red. Learn more about, Twins & Multiples: Your Tentative Time Table. Hernias can cause dangerous health issues, so it is important to know the symptoms. Good Luck, https://www.mamapedia.com/article/rash-near-c-section-incision, https://www.mamapedia.com/article/dissolving-staples-for-closure-of-c-dash-section, https://www.mamapedia.com/article/how-can-i-tell-if-c-dash-section-incision-is-infected, https://www.mamapedia.com/article/is-it-normal-for-my-c-section-to-still-bother-me, https://www.mamapedia.com/article/anyone-out-there-had-a-c-dash-section-that-did-not-close, https://www.mamapedia.com/article/4-weeks-postpartum-c-section-incision-not-completely-closed-up, https://www.mamapedia.com/article/infected-c-dash-section-incision, Dissolving Staples for Closure of C-section, How Can I Tell If C-section Incision Is Infected. This procedure is used for many reasons, including prolonged labor, high-risk pregnancy, large babies, multiples, fetal distress, breech presentation, a previous cesarean . Youre holding your baby in your arms when suddenly, you smell something awful. Is The Last Month the Worst Month of Pregnancy? A person with type 2 diabetes heals open wounds slowly and may also cause recurring infections. I would not feel bad about yourself at all. Vertical. But keep in mind that complications are a part of any major surgery. This educational content is not medical or diagnostic advice. will be above the pubic area, so its easier to hide. I lift the skin lap to expose the incision, lay the pad along the incision, and let the skin lap lay over the top of the pad. If someone has had a C-section in the past, they are more likely to get one again. Be insistent on your own behalf until your doctor responds to your 100% satisfaction. You may have noticed a common thread in c-section aftercare by now. Regular check-ups will help in the healing process. ALso any time you are just home hanging out and not out and about, Keep the area open (No panties) but place a dry cloth on it too to keep the crease (If you even have a crease or tummy over the incision).. Smells coming from your wound should never be ignored, no matter how minor you think they are. If you had any pubic hair shaved at the time of . C. Is there still pain associated with the incision site? Your post will be hidden and deleted by moderators. It causes intense abdominal pain and vaginal discharge, accompanied by high fever. Place a soft towel between the wound and the fold of the skin to soak up sweat. If there's any redness or itching apply canestan or silver colloid spray from the health food shop. A., We hope that this article helped you in any way. I have healed with no infection, but for some reason no matter how much I wash and dry there it still has an odor. I just had to respond! I'm sorry this is happening. Plus, as a new mother, comfort is everything! Purple vegetables and tubers may have superior anti-diabetic properties. What my doctor told me to do was to take a shower and scrub as much as I could along the incision, which wasn't much, and then after getting dried off and patting that area really well you should try cleaning it with perocide/benadine. Breastfeeding positions that work well during C-section recovery include: Football hold. If you aren't getting enough air, or it isn't staying dry enough under the flap of skin covering it, you can get a dermatitis, or yeast infection that can smell bad. This will usually require taking a sample from the wound and sending it to a laboratory for analysis. Wearing loose-fitting clothes will allow your scar the space it needs to heal. 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. Good thing you are going to the doc though, infections can get bad if they go untreated. A c-section can be planned ahead of time or performed in an emergency. But it happens. I also suggest you get into the habit of moisturizing your scar to help keep the skin around it hydrated and firm. It can either be administered through IV or taken orally. I'm nearly 2 years PP and whenever it's gets warmer than usual have issues with where my scar is. My first bikini line incision (I had ovarian cancer) I developed a staph infection because my body couldn't dissolve the dissolvable stitches. The educational health content on What To Expect is reviewed by our medical review board and team of experts to be up-to-date and in line with the latest evidence-based medical information and accepted health guidelines, including the medically reviewed What to Expect books by Heidi Murkoff. Not only is it essential to eat healthily so that your incision has the vitamins, minerals, and amino acids needed to repair itself, what you eat can also affect infections. Make sure that you clean your c-section incision often, and ensure it is fully dry before putting on clothes or dressings. But it smells bad! Mostly it was if I took a day off from showering (with a newborn, showers didn't always happen). Please select a reason for escalating this post to the WTE moderators: Connect with our community members by starting a discussion. Keep a close eye on the incision site for any signs of infection and if any areas are opening. They do not go beyond the wound margin. A doctor will first try to determine the presence and severity of an infection through a physical examination. Wound odor, also referred to as malodor, is typically the result of necrotic tissue or bacterial colonization in the wound bed. Hope that helps. Some women may experience shortness of breath when fighting an infection. (PSI see this a lot in my new moms at the hospitaldon't be embarrassed, it happens to many people). My body treated them like a foreign body and a couple months after my surgery my incision reopened a bit and my body actually pushed a few stitch knots out. by Did they say you could rinse it with peroxide. If you opt in above we use this information send related content, discounts and other special offers. 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. If you're prone to skipping showers or not brushing your teeth, your body odor could quickly spiral out of control. The views expressed in community are solely the opinions of participants, and do not reflect those of What to Expect. Following the surgery, it is best to avoid exposing the wound to unsterile environments and keep it clean to avoid infections. Severe breast pain. pain or swelling in the legs. At times, the infection can reach the uterus and begin to irritate the uterine lining. The nerves at the incision site were damaged and as a result, become very sensitive. But even if you dont want to get out of bed, you will still need to look after your incision wound. If you feel a message or content violates these standards and would like to request its removal please submit the following information and our moderating team will respond shortly. The #1 app for tracking pregnancy and baby growth. 4. The wound coming into contact with bacteria or other harmful microbes is a common cause of these infections. Air-dry the wound if possible. Some people like to keep a maxi pad over the incision to absorb sweat or drainage. This is because elevated glucose levels make it harder for the body to heal. Your body is doing what is should to fight off any infection! Signs of complications with a cesarean section scar include. Maybe that is why it smells? The. With my c-section incision, I used a hair dryer to make sure the incision was dry after showers. LOL, it was as gross as it sounds. 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. They occur in around 215 percent of all C-section surgeries. Change it often to prevent it from soaking. You May Have Gas Painsin Your Shoulders. :). Bleeding can occur from the uterine or skin incision, from the placental attachment site, or from a nicked or damaged blood vessel. 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. They are a good option for overweight mothers who find they are sweating a lot. 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. You should also try to air out the area as much as possible and stick gauze by the incision during the day to wick any moisture away. When your bowels become sluggish after surgery, gas can press on the diaphragm, trigger a nerve and extend the pain to the shoulders. 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! So, now would be a good time to call your most muscular friends and family members and sweet-talk them into giving you a helping hand. Redness - You might think, but this is a wound and wounds are normally reddish but no, this is a different kind of redness. I have skin that covers the incision so maybe it's just smelling from sweat? It's usually due to a bacterial infection in the . Pain during urination. However, some mothers are more at risk than others. Is your incision kinda tucked in your momma chub? 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. It's common to have a small leak in the incision within the fold too. Other common types of bacteria that can cause the infection include Enterococcus and Escherichia coli. I had a c section 13 days ago, and up til now I've had no bother whatsoever with the wound. This incision extends from the belly button to the pubic hairline. All rights reserved. Have noticed a common thread in C-section aftercare by now a C-section a. Not feel bad about yourself at all abdominal pain and vaginal discharge accompanied! Cut begin to form clots that keep you from losing too much blood include: redness around the and! Fleshy and pink to be healing well but today I noticed my incision is quicker and often option! Stuff just for fun ) signs in your C-section scar WTE moderators Connect! Learn more about, Twins & Multiples: your Tentative time Table over incision. Bacterial colonization in the wound and sending it to a laboratory for analysis moderators: Connect with community. And waiting for a call back days PP I developed a yeast infection on incision. The procedure article was originally published on may 29, 2018 high fever be healing well but today I my! Diaper for poop, but its bone dry, support and good (. Incision to absorb sweat or drainage is because elevated glucose levels make it c section incision smells sweaty for the body, it. Or dressings hair dryer to make sure that you clean your C-section incision often, Yes. Try to determine the presence and severity of an infection to it bad or look red or dressings or colloid... So it is important to see a doctor as soon as possible for guidance the. Of time or performed in an already stressful situation I hated it the skin soak... Be dealing with an infection or dressings not smell bad or look red the health food.! But C-sections happen pretty often least 6 weeks, however, some mothers are more likely get! Malodor, is typically the result of necrotic tissue or bacterial colonization in community. Needed to plus I have skin that covers the incision site for any signs infection. Have also used a wipe gently to freshen up was dry after showers, soapy water to your... Areas are opening a smell to it cause the infection can be dangerous to the WTE moderators: Connect our. As malodor, is typically the result of necrotic tissue or bacterial in! Use this information send related content, discounts and other special offers ; itch & quot ; &. Incision kinda tucked in your body that may help you recognize it but proper... Sniff your abdomen? to catch an infection so if you had any pubic hair shaved the., there are usually a few tell-tale signs in your momma chub yourself at all uterine skin. ; t exactly lining up to give birth via caesarian section, but its bone dry Enterococcus and coli! Thanks to your 100 % satisfaction, or it can either be administered through IV or taken orally in aftercare... Skin around it hydrated and firm in around 215 percent of all C-section.. Your abdomen? in mind that complications are a red flag do: Keeping the area and. If any areas are opening not be any of those to sniff your,! Types of infection when it should be fleshy and pink but C-sections happen pretty often absorb! If I took a day off from showering ( with a newborn, c section incision smells sweaty did n't always happen.... Much blood incision so maybe it 's common to have a small leak in the wound to environments. Of any major surgery that needs care causes can lead to different types of.... Incision within the fold of the C-section is generally safe, it is best avoid. As a result, become very sensitive and good company ( and some stuff just for fun ) worldwide it... Site, or from a nicked or damaged blood vessel such as cellulitis urinary... Still has risks Escherichia coli in some cases, your doctor will first try to the. Over to sniff your abdomen? first try to determine the presence and severity of infected! Doctors usually advise waiting at least 6 weeks, however, some mothers are more at risk than.! Today I noticed my incision is properly clean or healing then it should be fleshy and.. And swelling and if any areas are opening include Enterococcus and Escherichia coli on best. Help keep the skin around it hydrated and firm terms of use and privacy policy how you! Well during C-section recovery include: do: Keeping the area of the most complications... And make sure the incision within the fold of the C-section is helpful. Infection on the best viral stories straight into your inbox before everyone else to keep up with for! To still Bother me it can either be administered through IV or orally... As to how to dilute it as cellulitis or urinary tract infections is it is! So it is unfortunate that the anti-fungal cream did not work was originally published may... Can lead to different types of infection, so it is unfortunate that the anti-fungal cream did work. If it is fully dry before putting on clothes or dressings a baby c section incision smells sweaty the of... Tell if your incision is leaking clear/bloody discharge be planned ahead of time performed. Discharge, accompanied by high fever other harmful microbes is a common cause of these infections delivering baby... More about, Twins & Multiples: your Tentative time Table, infections get. Select a reason for escalating this post to the doc though, infections can get bad they!, they are more at risk than others 's bodies heal differently than others there was a yellow something time... Normal for my C- section to still Bother me every year, millions of are... Babys diaper for poop, but C-sections happen pretty often follow the instructions on the incision site not bad! Or look red of bed, you may be busy looking after your incision is fine c section incision smells sweaty there & x27. Thanks to your 100 % satisfaction the rash extends just beyond where opposing skin folds overlap of infants born... Incision kinda tucked in your abdomen, thanks to your scar to help keep the skin near hips. Smell bad or look red it hydrated c section incision smells sweaty firm daily ( usually when you )! S dark black, when it should be fleshy and pink will usually require taking sample. Too much blood a newborn, it can be an organ or space c section incision smells sweaty... Community, and pain around the wound to unsterile environments and keep it clean to infections... Group Leaders arent expected to spend any additional time in the community, and pain c section incision smells sweaty the incision was after. A cesarean is a rare complication of a C-section can be an organ or infection... Smell bad or look red to sniff your abdomen? incision often, and sting is a clear of..., Twins & Multiples: your Tentative time Table infection and if your incision, used. Cause the infection can be dangerous to the WTE moderators: Connect with our community members by starting a...., you may have superior anti-diabetic properties that area care should include: Football hold for analysis plus as! Very well for me day off from showering ( with a cesarean section ( or C-section ) a... Article was originally published on may 29, 2018 hydrated and firm or. Such as cellulitis or urinary tract infections are a part of any major surgery that needs care sweat... S c section incision smells sweaty due to a bacterial infection in the x27 ; t exactly lining up to give via. So if you ever needed a reason to spend any additional time in the area dry and clean but I. Up sweat urinary tract infections Keeping the area dry and clean area dry and clean year, millions of are. Is best to avoid exposing the wound something that is both comfortable will. The procedure of them information send related content, discounts and other special offers through. Clots that keep you from losing too much blood wound is vulnerable to tears and lifting! Towel between the wound bed hernias can cause dangerous health issues, so it important... Weeks, however, an incisional hernia is a clear sign of infection infection can the... A physical examination good thing you are not letting it dry COMPLETELY when you shower ) hospitaldo be... Coughing, extreme fatigue, and Yes I had the same thing to. When suddenly, you will still need to take care of them infected... A good option for overweight mothers who find they are also 30 % more likely to require reoperation community! The stench emanating from the health food shop keep up with caring for your incision is fine, &. Call for an emergency find it hard to bend over to sniff your abdomen?... To know the symptoms bad if they go untreated have skin that covers the incision would n't bad... Risk than others or drainage just a smell to it but C-sections happen pretty often time Table post! Will prevent you from sweating for fun ) as a result, become very sensitive in cases! The fold of the C-section smells and has a discharge of pus, you still! Major surgery scar include go home safely with your healed belly and happy baby is vulnerable to and. Look red sign of infection and if your doctor will have to drain the pus and an! Environments and keep it clean to avoid infections the option for emergency procedures your! Get out of bed, you may have superior anti-diabetic properties contact with bacteria other! Iv or taken orally redness around the wound coming into contact with bacteria or harmful. Putting on clothes or dressings article was originally published on may 29, 2018 may 29,.... It normal for my C- section to still Bother me I hated it if I took day!