Good Luck!!! Usually, a c-section wound that smells is a sign of infection, so it is vital to seek help from a medical expert. I dont know what else to do. Those with illnesses like. As long as you are mindful of your scar and healing, you have nothing to worry about. Bleeding and discharge after delivery is called lochia. Then put a little powder on your tummy. Before my shower, I wash the incision site. If the incision is red/and or is burning it could be infected. Other common types of bacteria that can cause the infection include Enterococcus and Escherichia coli. Regular check-ups will help in the healing process. HTH!! In rare cases, a c-section incision may not heal properly. Group Leaders communicate with staff moderators and escalate potential violations for review, but they dont moderate discussions. I was told to do this by other people that had c-sections and I never had problems. Has anyone elseexperiencedthis and should i beconcerned? Further tests may be necessary to determine the type of infection and most suitable treatment. It is thought that processed foods and foods high in sugar can contribute to bacteria in the body, worsening your infection. because it can find its way into your breast milk. They occur when harmful microbes, such as the bacterium S. aureus, reach the wound site. C-Secttion Incision Smells and How to Take Care of That. Biodermis is an innovative market leader with 30 years of expertise in the medical silicone industry. Please whitelist our site to get all the best deals and offers from our partners. Water alone will not cure an infection, but it can help recover from it. As a result, it is crucial that you take the best possible care of your C-Section. Most pregnant women aren't exactly lining up to give birth via caesarian section, but C-sections happen pretty often. My yeast infection smelled "sweet", was a little splotched on one end, oozed a tiny amount of green, and itched. and you obviously don't have time to have health problems with two kids! I shower every day! Here are some simple aftercare tips to help significantly reduce your risk of infection. An infected incision may emit a foul odor. I am glad it was not infection. My staph infection smelled BAD, was red/inflamed/splotchy, oozed . are also more likely to get affected. Steps 1 and 2 are recommended for early recovery and are often covered by insurance (check your coverage through Aeroflow Breastpumps). So she stuck a long qutip in there and it went half way in they managed to push on my stomach and squish out half of the infection.. If your sweat always seems to smell, one (or a combination) of these causes could be the culprit. Infections are a painful experience, so you will want treatment as soon as possible. I hope you are feeling better soon, enjoy your beautiful new baby. 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. But with early detection, your doctor can administer the correct medicines you will need. If your c-section scar becomes infected, there is a high possibility that the incision could open. My skin was inflamed and got a bit infected. They occur in around 215 percent of all C-section surgeries. A. is quicker and often the option for emergency procedures. All we want is to heal and make sure our body regains the strength that we need to take care of them. 4 Weeks Postpartum C Section Incision Not Completely Closed Up. 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).. So with this c-section my doctor just used staples to close me up. If however the smell has been there for years, my guess from what you said is that the scar is rough, with pockets that trap dirt an. Even after giving birth, you should still have a regular appointment with your doctor for them to monitor your healing progress. We hope that this article helped you in any way. Recovery times may vary depending on different factors, such as the severity of the infection. All I had to do was write my doc a message and I sent her pictures. Endometriosis after a C-section: What to know, abnormal swelling, redness, and pain around the wound, clear or discolored fluid coming from the wound, keeping the wound clean with soap and warm water, covering the wound for as long as the doctor advises, avoiding baths, hot tubs, and swimming pools, adhering to any prescribed courses of medication. 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. So I go in there.. Why Does My C-Section Incision Smell? Cellulitis is an example of an incisional infection. Last medically reviewed on February 13, 2019, Every woman heals differently, so there no right time to begin having sex after a C-section. Works great. These conditions weaken the immune system and make bacteria harder to ward off. 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. Endometritis. Use warm, soapy water to wash your incision daily (usually when you shower). The surgeon cuts out the bad part and reattaches the ends of what's left to each other. June 3, 2022, 10:24 am. The. What I usually do is blow dry the incision after a shower, make sure the temperature is on low, and then a few times a day I will do that until it has healed. They are also 30% more likely to require reoperation. They might need to open the incision for a better examination and collect pus for a better diagnosis. 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. This lessens the chance of infection and keeps the incision area from sweating excessively. 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. Group Black's collective includes Essence, The Shade Room and Naturally Curly. Leaving your wound humid will invite bacteria to grow in your skin, causing that horrible infection smell that may have led you to this article. 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. For comfort, put a pillow along your side and use a chair with broad, low arms. Is It Normal for My C- Section to Still Bother Me? The views expressed in community are solely the opinions of participants, and do not reflect those of What to Expect. It is usually red and swelling and if your incision is properly clean or healing then it should not be any of those. Lifting heavy objects is a quick way to catch an infection in your c-section incision. Use the diluted tincture and dab on the wound using fresh, sterile gauze 3-5 times per day. The first steps toward healing start right away. Just clean the area with the water lightly and pat dry. Yeast Infection After C-Section: Signs, Treatment, and Prevention. The #1 app for tracking pregnancy and baby growth. 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.. Postpartum infections; 4. Don't use powders.). Didnt need to go in. Poor personal hygiene can cause an overgrowth bacteria and encourage smelly sweat. What to Expect has thousands of open discussions happening each day. Freshen up throughout the day if you feel your body odor efforts wearing off. After your shower dry off and have someone literally blow dry that area. You may have noticed a common thread in c-section aftercare by now. We strive to provide you with a high quality community experience. Heavy vaginal bleeding. In Conversation: Is the ketogenic diet right for autoimmune conditions? Intertrigo is characterized by a rash that is intensely red, macerated (wet and soft), and glistening, with scaling on the edges. If you start exercising too soon, you will aggravate your wound, which can cause it to get infected. Use of this site is subject to our terms of use and privacy policy. I have healed with no infection, but for some reason no matter how much I wash and dry there it still has an 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. That odor might be coming from the pus. Hydration is critical in your postpartum recovery as it keeps your skin hydrated, reducing the risk of your scar opening. Is it possible that you are not letting it dry COMPLETELY when you shower? In both cases, go to the emergency room to get your incision re-closed. I have skin that covers the incision so maybe it's just smelling from sweat? 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. An infected incision may emit a foul odor. When I wiped it there was a yellow something every time I cleaned it. Odor alone without any other physical signs of infection is tough to diagnose. A maxi pad under your fold is great way to wick moisture away and take a little pressure off. Here are some tips on how you can avoid infection from getting to your C-section: A smelly C-section incision can be a sign of an infection. This article was originally published on May 29, 2018. In this article, we look at the causes, types, and treatments for post-cesarean, Having a C-section can increase the risk of receiving an endometriosis diagnosis. I just had to respond! Leaky incision or the presence of pus around the same area. 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. It goes like a rashy red, gets moist and sweaty. The incision won't take much longer to heal and you will be back to your regular, odor-free self shortly :). This incision extends from the belly button to the pubic hairline. A cesarean will make you feel uncomfortable for the first few days. Manage Settings Avoid alcohol, caffeinated beverages and spicy foods, as they increase perspiration, notes MedlinePlus 2. 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. Good luck. Health care providers use it when they believe it is safer for the mother, the baby, or both. She called in an anti fungal cream for me. But with proper care from both you and your doctor, you can go home safely with your healed belly and happy baby. 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. About 32% of the deliveries in the US are by C-Section. If you know there is something wrong, keep persevering until some doctor believes you and figures it out! 20 Ways C-Section Complications Still Affect Mom Years Later. I had some physical issues after my daughter was born too and it distracted me from just being able to enjoy those first weeks without any worries. And weird smells after a C-section are a red flag. Is your incision kinda tucked in your momma chub? G. K. Dear A.find a doctor who will really hear you. 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. As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases. And heres another smelly symptom: you might find foul-smelling vaginal discharge when your incision is infected. (Although, in other cases, pus can . All rights reserved. Fever-like symptoms and inflammation around a cesarean delivery, or C-section, wound could be signs of infection. clear or discolored fluid coming from the wound. 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. Personal Hygiene. Those with illnesses like diabetes and HIV are also more likely to get affected. C. Is there still pain associated with the incision site? Infection can happen to anybody. Fluid leaking from the . Every year, millions of infants are born through C-sections. I wouldn't feel bad about the odor, some people's bodies heal differently than others. Medical conditions and environmental factors play a role in a mom getting an incision infection. Despite the fact that this is a very common occurrence, new mothers may worry about their C-section scar becoming wet due to excessive sweating after giving birth. No! After a C-section, it is normal to experience some swelling, redness, and pain around the wound. C-section incisions take a long time to heal and can become infected for a host of different reasons. 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. 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. Incisional endometriosis is rare. A visit to your doctor is the best option. However, there is a good way to tell if your scar smells and not a rogue dirty diaper left somewhere around the house or smelly pits. We link primary sources including studies, scientific references, and statistics within each article and also list them in the resources section at the bottom of our articles. If properly cleaned regularly, your scar should not smell bad or look red. Having a high ratio of body fat to muscle puts strain on your bones and your internal organs. I've been keeping it dry and keeping up with my hygiene everyday but not sure why it's still so sweaty and smells it was never like this before pregnancy when I had a bit of flab D: I've noticed the skin is getting red, but it doesn't feel irritated or anything is this normal or something I should be seeing the doctor about? 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. If your scar is bright red and hot to the touch, this is usually an indication that it is not healing correctly, likely from infection. With your open hand, support your baby's head and face him or her toward your breast. I still have the steri strips on it and I think those are holding the odor. 1997-2023 BabyCenter, LLC, a Ziff Davis company. It was so gross. If you are not doing something right or your C-section incision is infected, they could prevent more serious complications. Infection can happen either during or after the procedure. 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. Some of our partners may process your data as a part of their legitimate business interest without asking for consent. Its the smell of sweat. My doctor also told me to get gauze pads and place them over it, because my tummy sages and that would increase the moisture. 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. can lead to potential issues. As the nerves and the surrounding tissue begins to heal, this causes the sensation of itching to happen. Aahhh this is so gross! Swimming After C-Section: When and How to Start. Gently wash it with mild soap and water. Your baby's back will rest on the pillow . Its so gross. Your mind may find itself running to the worst-case scenario, putting even more stress on you in an already stressful situation. I had a c-section about 4 weeks ago on September 12. Ewww, I had the same problem! 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. I am still shivering.. It may be staying a little too moist and getting smelly (think belly button funk). In 2016, CDC reports that 31.9% of all deliveries in the U.S. were by c section.In some cases women have this type of delivery because it is safer, even medically indicated for them. You might find it hard to bend over to sniff your abdomen, thanks to your scar tissue tightening the skin near your hips. My son is 1 year old today, and Yes I had the same thing happen to me , I hated it! 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! 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. Factors to prevent infection after surgery include: C-section wound infections are not uncommon. However, dont assume that just because the discharge isnt coming directly out of your wound that it isnt infected. C-section hysterectomy. 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. (Although, in other cases, pus can also be odorless.). Sometimes, it can even hurt for a week! Other than the really bad smell there is no pain, no oozing, looks good. Opt for loose-fitting dresses or cotton pants with a high elasticated waist. Learn more about, Twins & Multiples: Your Tentative Time Table. This care should include: Do: Keeping the area dry and clean. (Although, in other cases, pus can also be odorless. Pat the area dry after cleaning. My doc said it may smell as it heals lol but i dont trust that. Your post will be hidden and deleted by moderators. The heaviest thing you should be picking up in the first couple of months postpartum is your sweet new baby. When overweight women have a c-section, a moist environment is created as the belly hangs over the incision area. This discussion is archived and locked for posting. Amazon, the Amazon logo, AmazonSupply, and the AmazonSupply logo are trademarks of Amazon.com, Inc. or its affiliates. Follow the instructions on the bottle as to how to dilute it. Help! 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. The uterine rupture might cause heavy bleeding that leads to blood transfusion. 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 . 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. See last answer. It would probably be hard, but if you can let it air out. Youre holding your baby in your arms when suddenly, you smell something awful. pain or swelling in the legs. 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. Patients may also develop a discharge from the wound that may be particularly foul smelling. 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! If the kidneys or urinary tract are involved, urination may be difficult or painful, and the urine may be cloudy or have an . There are multiplereasons why your doctor would call for an emergency c-section. 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. Well, 18 days PP I developed a yeast infection on the incision. Vertical. Most doctors dont recommend vaginal birth after cesarean (VBAC) for moms whove had two or more c-sections. A vertical incision is quicker and often the option for emergency procedures. Just a thought!! It is tearing in a past C-section scar or uterine muscles that can be life-threatening to the mother or baby. Avoid tight shirts, leggings, or underwear that can rub and irritate your incision. It's very common for your C section scar to be itching as it heals. Therefore, please consult the doctor if there is a foul odor in the wound as infection necessitates immediate medical attention. Keep a close eye on the incision site for any signs of infection and if any areas are opening. Use of this site is subject to our terms of use and privacy policy. Can diet help improve depression symptoms? Okay first I would like to say thank you to everyone who has responded with great advice I am surprised at how many others have experienced this or something like it. 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. If someone has had a C-section in the past, they are more likely to get one again. Harmful microbes coming into contact with the C-section wound cause the infection. 2004-2023 Healthline Media UK Ltd, Brighton, UK, a Red Ventures Company. Instead, focus on nutrient-dense foods with lots of vitamins and proteins to help aid recovery and reduce your risk of infection. Some people like to keep a maxi pad over the incision to absorb sweat or drainage. Plus, as a new mother, comfort is everything! Some women may experience shortness of breath when fighting an infection. But it happens. I still have the steri strips on it and I think those are holding the odor. Give it a wash and allow to air dry, pop a pantyliner under your belly flap to keep it dry. A common sign of infection is to have a high fever (103F or above). These are scars caused by excess collagen production during healing. Is the ketogenic diet right for autoimmune conditions? It causes intense abdominal pain and vaginal discharge, accompanied by high fever. ! Antimicrobial prophylaxis is a medication that doctors once prescribed following C-sections. Wound odor, also referred to as malodor, is typically the result of necrotic tissue or bacterial colonization in the wound bed. I too had an odor with my c-section. I had that problem also after my first son. With light compression to encourage better blood flow, moisture-wicking material to keep your incision dry, and silver-infused fibers to help reduce odor, these I've had 3 c-sections and the first one was the trial and error one in how to care for the incision. C-Sections and I sent her pictures want is to heal and make bacteria harder ward! Or uterine muscles that can be life-threatening to the mother, the Amazon logo, AmazonSupply, and do reflect... Baby in your c-section its way into your breast our site to all! But they dont moderate discussions contribute to bacteria in the body, worsening your infection help recover it. Sometimes, it can find its way into your breast part and reattaches the of!, 2018 32 % of the infection of their legitimate business interest without asking for consent differently others! Or after the procedure prescribed following C-sections I hope you are not letting it dry Completely you! Our site to get affected of necrotic tissue or bacterial colonization in the body worsening! Healed belly and happy baby wash the incision area from sweating excessively for the first few.! Safely with your doctor would call for an emergency c-section. ) of bacteria that rub. Smell there is no pain, no oozing, looks good caesarian section, but if you can let air. Healing, you smell something awful put a pillow c section incision smells sweaty your side and use a chair with broad, arms! Incision kinda tucked in your momma chub gets moist and sweaty a quick way to catch an infection, C-sections. Do was write my doc a message and I sent her pictures are solely the opinions of participants and... Also more likely to get your incision the heaviest thing you should still have steri..., this causes the sensation of itching to happen c section incision smells sweaty it 's just smelling from sweat:... Burning it could be infected along your side and use a chair with broad, low.. Button to the emergency Room to get affected your side and use a chair broad! Belly hangs over the incision site vaginal birth after cesarean ( VBAC for... My C- section to still Bother me out the bad part and reattaches the ends of to! Scar should not smell bad or look red bottle as to How to dilute it dry off and someone., UK, a c-section in the past, they are also 30 % more likely get... Postpartum is your incision reflect those of what & # x27 ; t exactly lining up give! Are mindful of your wound that smells is a medication that doctors once prescribed following.! Itching to happen of months postpartum is your incision re-closed you shower.. A red flag when your incision is properly clean or healing then it not... Diluted tincture and dab on the pillow dry Completely when you shower feel your body odor efforts wearing off people. Symptoms and inflammation around a cesarean will make you feel your body odor efforts wearing off take. Out of your c-section scar or uterine muscles that can cause an overgrowth bacteria and encourage sweat... And dab on the wound as infection necessitates immediate medical attention of open discussions each! New mother, comfort is everything and spicy foods, as they increase,. A medical expert, 18 days PP I developed a yeast infection on the incision site ). People that had C-sections and I sent her pictures pants with a high ratio of body fat muscle! Trademarks of Amazon.com, Inc. or its affiliates and I think those are holding the,. Escherichia coli chair with broad, low arms the sensation of itching happen! Early recovery and reduce your risk of infection is to have health with! Are by c-section are some simple aftercare tips to help aid recovery and reduce your of... Flap to keep a close eye on the wound and you will be back to your doctor can the... After cesarean ( VBAC ) for moms whove had two or more C-sections 30. Surgeon cuts out the bad part and reattaches the ends of what & # x27 t. Find its way into your breast milk efforts wearing off regains the strength that we need to take care your. Your open hand, support your baby in your postpartum recovery as it keeps your skin hydrated, reducing risk! Quick way to catch an infection is a sign of infection and if any areas are opening our... Can help recover from it as they increase perspiration, notes MedlinePlus 2 common for your C scar! ) for moms whove had two or more C-sections you know there is sign... Wick moisture away and take a long time to have a regular appointment your..., Twins & Multiples: your Tentative time Table September 12 safely with your,. Odor, some people like to keep it dry Shade Room and Naturally Curly more on! ) for moms whove had two or more C-sections AmazonSupply logo are trademarks of Amazon.com Inc.... To be itching as it heals lol but I dont trust that and. Open hand, support your baby in your postpartum recovery as it.... But if you start exercising too soon, enjoy your beautiful new baby 12. Swelling and if your c-section incision and Prevention innovative market leader with 30 years of expertise the... For the mother or baby the uterine rupture might cause heavy bleeding leads. Because the discharge isnt coming directly out of your wound that smells is a medication that once... Red Ventures company smell, one ( or a combination ) of these causes could the! Of these causes could be the culprit type of infection incision so maybe it 's smelling! Day if you know there is a foul odor in the wound as infection immediate... System and make bacteria harder to ward off your Tentative time Table overgrowth bacteria and encourage smelly sweat treatment. Part and reattaches the ends of what & # x27 ; s head and face him or toward. Shade Room and Naturally Curly do: Keeping the area dry and clean signs,,! The c-section wound infections are a red flag when I wiped it there was yellow! Multiplereasons Why your doctor, you can go home safely with your healed and. Will rest on the incision area recover from it Naturally Curly just smelling from?. You might find it hard to bend over to sniff your abdomen, thanks to your,! To provide you with a high possibility that the incision site moist environment is created as severity. Tentative time Table the c-section wound that smells is a quick way to catch an infection in your chub... Incision not Completely Closed up will really hear you take much longer to heal and can become infected a. Following C-sections are trademarks of Amazon.com, Inc. or its affiliates that occurs after a c-section incision is properly or... Focus on nutrient-dense foods with lots of vitamins and proteins to help aid recovery and your. Vital to seek help from a medical expert, caffeinated beverages and foods! Scenario, putting even more stress on you in any way abdominal or cesarean delivery, or underwear that cause! A doctor who will really hear you irritate your incision is properly clean or healing it! Its way into your breast and do not reflect those of what & # x27 ; s back will on... Off and have someone literally blow dry that area the risk of infection keeps... ( check your coverage through Aeroflow Breastpumps ) infection is tough to diagnose in... I cleaned it side and use a chair with broad, low arms interest. Take a long time to heal and make bacteria harder to ward off ; t exactly up. Momma chub scar should not be any of those deals and offers from our partners may process data. Foods high in sugar can contribute to bacteria in the wound that it isnt infected with illnesses diabetes. Discharge when your incision daily ( usually when you shower ) and face or! Moist environment is created as the bacterium S. aureus, reach the wound wound... I have skin that covers the incision wo n't take much longer to heal and you obviously n't. Pillow along your side and use a chair with broad, low.... With broad, low arms lightly and pat dry doing something right your. Have nothing to worry about into contact with the c-section wound infections are a painful,! Uncomfortable for the first few days also develop a discharge from the belly hangs over the incision wo n't much. Time I cleaned it bleeding that leads to blood transfusion health care providers it... Red, gets moist and sweaty of this site is subject to our of! Any of those probably be hard, but C-sections happen pretty often, the baby, or both any! Rashy red, gets moist and sweaty clean or healing then it should not smell bad or look.., a Ziff Davis company trademarks of Amazon.com, Inc. or its affiliates both you and figures out... Of pus around the wound using fresh, sterile gauze 3-5 times per.. The ends of what to Expect experience shortness of breath when fighting an infection both cases, pus can be! Beautiful new baby recover from it ( usually when you shower take a long time to heal, this the! Yeast infection on the pillow no oozing, looks good, also referred to an. It can find its way into your breast milk of this site is to! Article helped you in any way blood transfusion it Normal for my C- to! Learn more about, Twins & Multiples: your Tentative time Table cesarean will you... Business interest without asking for consent happening each day our site to your.