I also had a clear discharge come out of it thats what made the odor. Updated Jan 25, 2021. We work hard to share our most timely and active conversations with you. But with proper care from both you and your doctor, you can go home safely with your healed belly and happy baby. I've read some threads online which suggest that . The incision is a little warm but I thought that might just be because of the fold of skin? My doctor told me to get a clean wash cloth wet it a little and run it along the scar, let it air dry , then sprinkle baby powder on the scar. 3. A visit to your doctor is the best option. My tummy on the left side kind of hung down over the incision so it never really had a chance to stay dry and heal. Mine doesn't smell bad but it definitely has a different smell. 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. I began washing with hibicleanse and it cleared right up almost immediately. My doc said it may smell as it heals lol but i dont trust that. Cellulitis is an example of an incisional infection. They both like moist areas to grow in, like the fold in your stomache after a baby. It can take up to 30 days for symptoms to develop. Try using an over the counter fungus cream for a couple of days and see if it helps. Step 3 is intended for use after the wound is completely closed. Why Do I Have Constant Hard Stomach at 38 Weeks Pregnant. Vertical. It may not be infected at all, but you do need to start taking care of it so it doesn't grow into something. This educational content is not medical or diagnostic advice. Having two or more infants can also be a factor. My doctor says nothing is wrong just keep it clean, but I think maybe I need a second opinion because I bathe all the time and it still smells bad. A maxi pad under your fold is great way to wick moisture away and take a little pressure off. After that put a little bit of corn starch on the area and call it a day. What to Expect supports Group Black and its mission to increase greater diversity in media voices and media ownership. Cesarean parents are also 16% more likely to have post-operative complications like bleeding and infection. Mostly it was if I took a day off from showering (with a newborn, showers didn't always happen). For a convenient scar care solution on the go, try Pro-Sil silicone stick, which comes in an easy-to-use glide-on applicator. So whats going on with you and your incision? My doctor told me to clean it 4 times a day but I've only had to do twice and the smell and irritation is completely gone. Just thick wetness, horrible sticky weeping, awful smells, and an itch that was unbelievable. If your sweat always seems to smell, one (or a combination) of these causes could be the culprit. I still have the steri strips on it and I think those are holding the odor. C-section hysterectomy. An incision infection is a painful experience that nobody wants to experience (or experience again). If someone has had a C-section in the past, they are more likely to get one again. Good luck. Fast breathing. This article will discuss signs of C-section wound infections, as well as some prevention tips. My incision finally healed and after a couple of days it stopped smelling. I hadn't been drying it and I've been more active now that I'm feeling better so it does make sense if is extra moisture and sweat being trapped under my flab. Find advice, support and good company (and some stuff just for fun). Try drying the area really well with a CLEAN towel after your daily shower. 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. 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. I have also used a wipe gently to freshen up. Undies hold it in place. A foul smell coming from the incision site. So I think maybe cornstarch on the incision might help, It sounds like it could be a yeast infection.. It can either be administered through IV or taken orally. There are no two ways about it. Recovery times may vary depending on different factors, such as the severity of the infection. Uncommon: Sometimes, women feel an incision will "itch" after a c-section. I dont know what else to do. They occur in around 215 percent of all C-section surgeries. Continued use of antibiotics without treating the root cause is not good for you or your baby if you are breastfeeding. My staph infection smelled BAD, was red/inflamed/splotchy, oozed yellow, and was warm. My first bikini line incision (I had ovarian cancer) I developed a staph infection because my body couldn't dissolve the dissolvable stitches. 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. These are scars caused by excess collagen production during healing. Meanwhile, your stomach can be closed with either surgical staples, non-dissolvable stitches, or surgical glue. Yeah, I'll second the blow dryer thing. It sounds as if you have gotten alot of great advice..I might not use the cornstarch if I were you. Just like there are easy home remedies for a C-section recovery, similarly, the incision made by a C-section can be kept dry and free of sweat by following some of these tips: 1. 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. We avoid using tertiary references. 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. what do you think is it normal? When drying, make sure you pat rather than rub as the rubbing can lead to aggravation which can cause an infection to start. They will then examine the wound and ask about the presence of fever-like symptoms. Signs of an infected C-section incision include: Redness around the incision. 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. My scar has stopped weeping but it's still smelly I wash it dry it loads I've done everything but it still stinks! Keep a close eye on the incision site for any signs of infection and if any areas are opening. www.alldayparenting.com is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for sites to earn advertising fees by advertising and linking to Amazon.com. HTH!! We strive to provide you with a high quality community experience. Regardless of the type of your c-section incision, it should feel better by 2 weeks but would completely heal between 6 weeks up to 3 months. It's also less likely to split if you try to have a vaginal birth after a C-section (VBAC) when delivering a future baby. Note that once you confirm, this action cannot be undone. I had a c section 13 days ago, and up til now I've had no bother whatsoever with the wound. i clean it everyday and it is not infected. I hope it goes away quickly and enjoy your new baby! One of the most common complications is an infection. 0. 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.. Works great. Blood loss from cesarean section may be twice that lost in vaginal delivery, according to the Encyclopedia of surgery; so, additional internal bleeding can rapidly lead to hypovolemic (low blood volume) shock. Aahhh this is so gross! After all, if you get to the stage where your c-section incision smells, its too late! Use warm, soapy water to wash your incision daily (usually when you shower). Just clean the area with the water lightly and pat dry. Group Black's collective includes Essence, The Shade Room and Naturally Curly. If you have a little "hang over" you can even put a little gauze in the crease or tuck your panties in there. The infection can be incisional, or it can be an organ or space infection. If you notice any of these symptoms on your c-section incision, then you might want to have it checked by your healthcare provider or your doctor because it could be infected. In Conversation: Is the ketogenic diet right for autoimmune conditions? Postpartum infections; 4. 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. Im doing much better now and I use a hair dryer (cool or warm setting) on my incision to make sure its dry, Mine has a not nice smell too - I was sure it was an infection but OB looked at it today and said the incision is all healed up and that the smell was from hormonal sweat. In some cases, your doctor will have to drain the pus and put an antiseptic gauze on top of your wound. 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. Well, 18 days PP I developed a yeast infection on the incision. One sign of an internal infection is the presence of fever. And heres another smelly symptom: you might find foul-smelling vaginal discharge when your incision is infected. It may be staying a little too moist and getting smelly (think belly button funk). At first, your cut (incision) will be raised slightly and pinker than the rest of your skin. I had the same odorand they told me it was healing fine and there was nothing to worry about!O was oozing too. Incision wound pain or worsening pain. Mine is under my stomach too and it doesn't smell pretty. I have had 3 c sections my last one being 18 years ago. 20062023 BabyCenter, LLC, a Ziff Davis company. 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).. Biodermis is an innovative market leader with 30 years of expertise in the medical silicone industry. The woman is being cut open in her stomach, in her uterus, and then a baby is taken out. After a C-section, it is normal to experience some swelling, redness, and pain around the wound. If you are smelling your scar, it is likely the infection is quite nasty and needs antibiotics. She called in an anti fungal cream for me. Hi A., I have healed with no infection, but for some reason no matter how much I wash and dry there it still has an odor. Why Do My C-Section Scar Smell? Incisional infections affect the wound site itself, either in the skin or the deeper tissues around the wound. She said to keep it really dry so I dont develop a rash and just accept that itll go away once my hormones stabilize. As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases. When Do Pregnancy Symptoms Start and What to Look For, Cooking While Pregnant: 10 Tips to Reach Your Nutritional Needs, When Do Babies Outgrow Changing Table: Should You Buy A Changing Table. Whatever the reason may be, a C-section can help speed the process and even save the lives of a mom and child. will be above the pubic area, so its easier to hide. It is, however, possible to reduce the risk of infection by maintaining a healthful lifestyle before the surgery. painful urination or heavy vaginal discharge (lochia) a visible tear in the incision. You dont need to do anything special to look after your scar once it has healed (usually between 6 24 weeks after your cesarean procedure), but I strongly recommend you check in your scar from time to time. That odor might be coming from the, . Of course, drinking lots of water and walking around as soon as you can after the c-section will greatly ease the poop situation too. G. K. Dear A.find a doctor who will really hear you. These infections are typically straightforward to treat with antibiotics. Lifting heavy objects is a quick way to catch an infection in your c-section incision. I have some extra skin hanging over it. One doctor describes the smell of dead . Related Post: Lifting Toddler After C Section. Usually, a c-section wound that smells is a sign of infection, so it is vital to seek help from a medical expert. The. If your c-section scar becomes infected, there is a high possibility that the incision could open. They do not go beyond the wound margin. When overweight women have a c-section, a moist environment is created as the belly hangs over the incision area. i had a c section four months ago but it smells and it has scared on the side but whitesh on the middle.anyone with a similar problem? Bleeding after C-section smells bad. Every mother has a unique body that heals in its own time, and yours is no exception. It goes like a rashy red, gets moist and sweaty. Dr. Brian Enggano answered. (Oh, and in the mean time, when you get out of the shower dry it off with the blow dryer set on low/cool and then fold a pad in half and put it on there for the day. If it is fungus it might just provide a great medium to grow in. If so, it could be a yeast infection. Iam having the same problem has you! LOL, it was as gross as it sounds. So I go in there.. and you obviously don't have time to have health problems with two kids! If you are smelling your scar, it is likely the infection is quite nasty and needs antibiotics. Air-dry the wound if possible. 1. (Although, in other cases, pus can also be odorless. Can you tell if your c-section internal stitches have ruptured. 2. Sometimes, issues arise at the hospital or home after youve gotten your stitches. Help! Obstetrics and Gynecology 14 years experience. C: I received dissolving stitches as well and they healed pretty well until I stopped using gauze my obgyn suggested using powder to keep it dry after it healed but a few people have told me to completely avoid powder so gonna see my GP tomorrow. The heaviest thing you should be picking up in the first couple of months postpartum is your sweet new baby. Your mind may find itself running to the worst-case scenario, putting even more stress on you in an already stressful situation. And part of it is still open and bleeds a little. or maybe not, but the possibility is there, right? The results of these tests can provide information about the infection, such as the type of microbes causing it. The bacterium Staphylococcus aureus is the most common microbe to cause C-section wound infections. Place a soft towel between the wound and the fold of the skin to soak up sweat. The rash extends just beyond where opposing skin folds overlap. It wasn't my incision that had the bad odor but my skin around the incision. 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. A. is quicker and often the option for emergency procedures. It doesnt look infected or anything? could it be becuse i do not keep it dry enough ? [adthrive-in-post-video-player video-id=B499VaXg upload-date=2022-03-22T11:12:26.000Z name=Help, my c-section incision smells!. description= player-type=collapse override-embed=false]. This is because elevated glucose levels make it harder for the body to heal. Best of luck! C. Is there still pain associated with the incision site? ! Your incision is infected. 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. Do not ignore this symptom. Because the skin around your wound is vulnerable to tears and heavy lifting involves using your core. My staph infection smelled BAD, was red/inflamed/splotchy, oozed . 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.. About 32% of the deliveries in the US are by C-Section. To view the purposes they believe they have legitimate interest for, or to object to this data processing use the vendor list link below. Bummer! Endometriosis can develop after a C-section when it develops inside the surgery scar, which is known as incisional endometriosis. If symptoms do develop, it is important to see a doctor as soon as possible for guidance on the best treatment. (Although, in other cases, pus can . Mothers who are obese are at a higher rate of getting an infection. I had that problem also after my first son. Hello, The links below may be affiliate links. pain or swelling in the legs. 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. Appointments 216.444.6601. Is the incision itself red/warm and draining? Keeping the wound clean and in a sterile environment can help reduce the risk of infection. What should I do if my c-section incision opens? Sepsis can be life-threatening. Its extremely scary to find out your wound is infected, but luckily, you can do some simple things at home to help prevent infections from occurring. C-sections impact women with side-effects years later, and this is normal. White blood cells in your . One of the most common complications is an infection. I would not feel bad about yourself at all. As long as it is kept clean and dry, it should not smell. Change it often to prevent it from soaking. Use of this site is subject to our terms of use and privacy policy. In some instances, it can also be fatal. Did they say you could rinse it with peroxide. A Group Owner is a member that has initiated the creation of a group to connect with other members to share their journey through the same pregnancy & baby stages. A C-section can also cause internal tissues to become infected. In your case, it is uncommon for it to itch so many years after . Intertrigo Symptoms. Hi all! My drs office said sometimes the dissolving stitches smell kinda strange and to just keep it clean and dry. Group Black's collective includes Essence, The Shade Room and Naturally Curly. Pat the area dry after cleaning. Now all thats left to do is focus on your new job as a mom! MNT is the registered trade mark of Healthline Media. Wearing loose-fitting clothes will allow your scar the space it needs to heal. This has helped in many cases. Do you use soap on your incision? Is your incision kinda tucked in your momma chub? It somewhat smells but not too bad and the incision isn't hurting anymore. This discussion is archived and locked for posting. Most doctors dont recommend vaginal birth after cesarean (VBAC) for moms whove had two or more c-sections. 2022511. Today I had a look at it in the mirror, but when I lifted the very attractive fold of skin up to have a look, I noticed a weird smell coming from it. I recently had a C-Section and the incision smells every time I lift my stomach. 2005-2023Everyday Health, Inc., a Ziff Davis company. My skin was inflamed and got a bit infected. Hope that helps. 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. Those with illnesses like. A cesarean is a major surgery that needs care. 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 . The incision is fine, there's just a smell to it. I also suggest you get into the habit of moisturizing your scar to help keep the skin around it hydrated and firm. Other common types of bacteria that can cause the infection include Enterococcus and Escherichia coli. Is there a white discharge along with the odor? It is red and spotted actually, but its not on the actual incision site - its just below it about half an inch or so. 30/08/2016 01:50, ^^My son is 14 months old I have had 3 cesareans 2 being emergency and the last because I couldn't have a natural, anyway I just recently went loo and hot a funny smell went to rub my tummy where the scar is and it is stingy as well as sweaty and abit smelly will be keeping a eye on it, but I.just find it bizarre as I never had this problem with last 2 it's only been the last section, p.s I am trying to loose weight so don't know if that affects it at all but I feel bit strange and uncomfortable about it. By Jennifer Aline. Please select a reason for escalating this post to the WTE moderators: Connect with our community members by starting a discussion. 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! We and our partners use data for Personalised ads and content, ad and content measurement, audience insights and product development. I hope you are feeling better soon, enjoy your beautiful new baby. ), are at a higher rate of getting an infection. Certain factors increase the risk of experiencing a C-section wound infection. After delivering your baby by C-section, your doctor will tell you how to care for your incision. Empowering Your Family to Thrive in Life's Journey. HTH! Anyone Out There Had a C-section That Did Not Close? Seek immediate medical attention if you notice or feel that your incision is pulling apart. I'm so glad I'm not the only one with a stinky incision! I am still shivering.. 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. I knowgross. Group Leaders communicate with staff moderators and escalate potential violations for review, but they dont moderate discussions. I am glad to hear that it was nothing serious 2 weeks after my daughter was born Last January.. Emergency c-sections are at higher risk of getting an infection because there is less preparation time than a planned c-section delivery where all possible complications for the operation have been considered and prepared for. See last answer. There is no need to scrub, but we highly recommend patting it dry afterward. Updated on September 04, 2009 E.W. You might find it hard to bend over to sniff your abdomen, thanks to your scar tissue tightening the skin near your hips. Just a thought!! abdominal discomfort. It's very common for your C section scar to be itching as it heals. It is thought that processed foods and foods high in sugar can contribute to bacteria in the body, worsening your infection. Antimicrobial prophylaxis is a medication that doctors once prescribed following C-sections.