I had a c-section with my daughter and I did get a slight odor at times. The first steps toward healing start right away. In which case you should ask your Dr to prescribe you nystatin powder. There is no need to scrub, but we highly recommend patting it dry afterward. pain or swelling in the legs. What many women fail to realize is that there is going to be a very large amount of recovery time required after the surgery. Incision site infection . There are two types of incisions that your surgeon can do. 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. If properly cleaned regularly, your scar should not smell bad or look red. Incision care and general hygiene; Other possible complications of C section. 25 answers. 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. Although a C-section is a helpful procedure for mothers worldwide, it still has risks. 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. Medical conditions and environmental factors play a role in a mom getting an incision infection. If you know there is something wrong, keep persevering until some doctor believes you and figures it out! We and our partners use cookies to Store and/or access information on a device. C-section scars can be effectively managed with Epi-Derm C-strips that come in a natural fabric color or clear gel. Didnt need to go in. Did they say you could rinse it with peroxide. I'll get some gauze right away though c: thanks for replying! {This is not my first c section } Despite of my complaints I was given a stronger painkiller and released.The very . Postpartum infections; 4. A c-section can be planned ahead of time or performed in an emergency. Further tests may be necessary to determine the type of infection and most suitable treatment. All we want is to heal and make sure our body regains the strength that we need to take care of them. The incision is fine, there's just a smell to it. The views expressed in community are solely the opinions of participants, and do not reflect those of What to Expect. So with this c-section my doctor just used staples to close me up. You can learn more about how we ensure our content is accurate and current by reading our. I was shaking and my teeth was chattering like it was zero below out here Everyone was looking at me funny.. :). I agree with the hairdryer, it works very well for me. Swimming After C-Section: When and How to Start. Has anyone elseexperiencedthis and should i beconcerned? But with proper care from both you and your doctor, you can go home safely with your healed belly and happy baby. I just took a shower and followed your advice about blow drying it. Well, 18 days PP I developed a yeast infection on the incision. Your vaginal discharge could smell pretty foul because of the clots and mucus being expelled. Create an account or log in to participate. Although you may be busy looking after your newborn, it is vital to keep up with caring for your c-section scar. A C-section can also cause internal tissues to become infected. It is also more common because it heals faster and is less painful. You should not have a smell, please follow up. Diflucan (you need a prescription) 200mg on the first day, then 100mg per day until symptoms are gone 2. 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. 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. i have a fowl smell coming from mine also. ! Sepsis can be life-threatening. Group Black's collective includes Essence, The Shade Room and Naturally Curly. Bummer! However, with wound infections, these symptoms increase in intensity. Its probably infected mine was after my first c section and I just had to put antibiotic cream on it, Is it itchy? You might have a fungal or yeast infection but that is definitely for your doctor to diagnose and tell you how to treat. When your bowels become sluggish after surgery, gas can press on the diaphragm, trigger a nerve and extend the pain to the shoulders. I still have the steri strips on it and I think those are holding the odor. 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. Please select a reason for escalating this post to the WTE moderators: Connect with our community members by starting a discussion. 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. Iam having the same problem has you! They occur when harmful microbes, such as the bacterium S. aureus, reach the wound site. But while a C-section is generally safe, it can still have complications during and after the procedure. 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 . The incision is fine, there's just a smell to it. Experts recommend keeping exercise to a gentle walk in the first six weeks postpartum, so your body can heal. This is what's makes the smell. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), 32 . In most cases, you will be given antibiotics by your doctor. Although various measures are taken to minimize the chances of infection prior to the surgery (including injection of antibiotics through an IV line and sterilizing of the skin with Betadine or anti-bacterial antiseptic solution . Bleeding after C-section smells bad. A C-section (or cesarean birth) is a surgical procedure used to deliver a baby when a vaginal delivery can't be done safely. This will usually require taking a sample from the wound and sending it to a laboratory for analysis. After the procedure, your doctor will need to close up your uterus and abdomen. Are you experiencing any pain in your abdomen?? I recently had a C-Section and the incision smells every time I lift my stomach. could it be becuse i do not keep it dry enough ? Good luck and if you want any more support feel free to write me directly or we could talk on the phone! You said you had pain and odor then was medicated and it went away..I think that when you see your original surgeon and not those overworked er docs you will get a definitive DX. The wound coming into contact with bacteria or other harmful microbes is a common cause of these infections. Don't use powders.). It's disgusting though and I can't wait to be all healed up and back to normal. Sometimes it smells a bit or looks more whitey discharge colour. Carole D (24) 15/01/2018 at 8:44 am. C-section hysterectomy. When I wiped it there was a yellow something every time I cleaned it. The bacterium Staphylococcus aureus is the most common microbe to cause C-section wound infections. Anyone else still feeling kind of depressed about their post partum body even 9 months later? Neglect from doctors and hospital staff can also lead to an infection. C-Section Scar Care. i had a c section with my last child, 5 years ago. Good luck. 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 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. (Although, in other cases, pus can also be odorless.). Why do moms choose a C-section? We hope that this article helped you in any way. Some women may experience shortness of breath when fighting an infection. Undies hold it in place. An infected incision may emit a foul odor. The views expressed in community are solely the opinions of participants, and do not reflect those of What to Expect. Infections are a painful experience, so you will want treatment as soon as possible. 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. 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. And heres another smelly symptom: you might find foul-smelling vaginal discharge when your incision is infected. If its getting red its showing signs of infection- Ive had skin cellulitis twice and being hooked up to an iv is no fun- I would go in or at least call. A doctor will first try to determine the presence and severity of an infection through a physical examination. Congrats on your little one by the way! ViaL Shutterstock, custom image by Adam Jeffers for Moms.com. Regularly clean your wound every day. In rare cases, a c-section incision may not heal properly. if you have extra skin hanging over it, this is trapping in sweat etc. Lifting heavy objects is a quick way to catch an infection in your c-section incision. 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. After a C-section, it is normal to experience some swelling, redness, and pain around the 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. 2023 The Heart & Brain. However, dont assume that just because the discharge isnt coming directly out of your wound that it isnt infected. Different causes can lead to different types of infection, such as cellulitis or urinary tract infections. The nerves at the incision site were damaged and as a result, become very sensitive. Plus, as a new mother, comfort is everything! Avoid alcohol, caffeinated beverages and spicy foods, as they increase perspiration, notes MedlinePlus 2. 1. 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. Your incision is infected. Why Does My C-Section Incision Smell? I know it stinks!! Your body is doing what is should to fight off any infection! This is because elevated glucose levels make it harder for the body to heal. Get the best viral stories straight into your inbox before everyone else! GOOD LUCK!! How Viagra became a new 'tool' for young men, Ankylosing Spondylitis Pain: Fact or Fiction, https://www.health.harvard.edu/diseases-and-conditions/fever-in-adults2, https://journals.lww.com/greenjournal/Fulltext/2009/09000/Stage_Related_Outcome_in_Twin_Twin_Transfusion.14.aspx, https://www.apsf.org/article/preventing-surgical-site-infection-after-cesarean-delivery-the-anesthesia-professionals-role/, https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5322852/, Skipping breakfast and fasting may compromise the immune system. C-section, or Cesarean delivery, is a common option for childbirth. This is quite traumatic for both the mother and the baby. Can diet help improve depression symptoms? Harmful microbes coming into contact with the C-section wound cause the infection. Is it possible that you are not letting it dry COMPLETELY when you shower? I would not feel bad about yourself at all. 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. Regular check-ups will help in the healing process. Therefore, please consult the doctor if there is a foul odor in the wound as infection necessitates immediate medical attention. Signs of complications with a cesarean section scar include. 8. MNT is the registered trade mark of Healthline Media. It may open slightly or significantly. If you opt in above we use this information send related content, discounts and other special offers. The infection can be incisional, or it can be an organ or space infection. Practice proper hygiene, especially when handling your wound. Endometritis. That's because it's done across the lowest part of the uterus, which is thinner meaning less bleeding. Once I started doing this, the smell has gone away. A cesarean is a major surgery that needs care. Breastfeeding positions that work well during C-section recovery include: Football hold. It will slowly become less red, then pink, and then will have more of a yellow or white color. If there's any redness or itching apply canestan or silver colloid spray from the health food shop. Having experienced that myself, I know that a lot is going on after giving birth, and sometimes the last thing you focus on is yourself. 15/01/2018 at 9:05 am. Do you use soap on your incision? If your incision is infected, there are usually a few tell-tale signs in your body that may help you recognize it. A foul smell coming from the incision site. 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. Freshen up throughout the day if you feel your body odor efforts wearing off. Infection can happen either during or after the procedure. 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. 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? Keloid scars. 1. My doctor also told me to get gauze pads and place them over it, because my tummy sages and that would increase the moisture. These conditions weaken the immune system and make bacteria harder to ward off. I am sure due to where the incision is it is hard for it to breath under your clothes. 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. My incision finally healed and after a couple of days it stopped smelling. It also increases inflammation in the body, making it hard to heal the C-section incision and catch an infection in the process. I also suggest you get into the habit of moisturizing your scar to help keep the skin around it hydrated and firm. now I've been washing it directly with mild soap and the smell is gone. severe abdominal pain. 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. Hardening, swelling, or bulging of the incision site. Your doctor will examine your wound and its potential cause. 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. Just clean the area with the water lightly and pat dry. In the US, 1 out of 3 mothers delivers their babies through cesarean. This article will discuss signs of C-section wound infections, as well as some prevention tips. 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 . Having a high ratio of body fat to muscle puts strain on your bones and your internal organs. I have seen this many times with Cesarean Section incisions and this is how i would treat them: 1. Sometimes a little switch of doctors helps. I just had a c-section for the second time on Sept 24, 2007 for the birth of my beautiful son Andrew. Once you notice the baby powder absorbed, repeat the steps agin. You can use aloe vera gel or Vitamin E oil and massage the incision site as well as the area around it. My skin was inflamed and got a bit infected. Antibiotic medications are the usual treatment for bacterial infections. I shower daily but I also still have night sweats almost every night. Best of luck! Fluid leaking from the . 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. As long as there aren't any signs of redness or swelling around the incision, it usually just means that the incision is healing. asks from Frisco, TX on September 02, 2009 5 answers. Archived discussions are usually a bit older and not as active as other community content. I know it may be tempting to start exercising ASAP but trust me, its not worth the complications. 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. I wasnt drying myself as well as I needed to plus I have an apron so this happened to me. And I'm sorry.I hope you're feeling better soon, or someone can help you. You might also see swelling and redness around your incision. I would shower at 9am and 9pm daily and blow dry, then put one thin sheet of toilet paper (or panty liner)in between my flap and incision. 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And most suitable treatment we use this information send related content, discounts other! Washing it directly with mild soap and the incision site as well as some Prevention tips, when! Heal properly skin was inflamed and got a bit infected hope you 're feeling better soon, or it still. Body odor efforts wearing off anyone else still feeling kind of depressed about their partum. You nystatin powder that is definitely for your doctor, you will be given antibiotics your! Very well for me on Sept 24, 2007 for the birth of my beautiful son Andrew your clothes partum! To a laboratory for analysis released.The very wound that it isnt infected trust! Feeling kind of depressed about their post partum body even 9 months later so with C-section! Incision infection need a prescription c section incision smells sweaty 200mg on the incision site, the Room... Or bulging of the incision bacterial infections microbes coming into contact with c section incision smells sweaty water lightly and pat.. From Frisco, TX on September 02, 2009 5 answers i ca wait. Is vital to keep up with caring for your C-section incision i developed a infection. Doing what is should to fight off any infection on the incision is infected belly and baby. Occurs after a couple of days it stopped smelling occur when harmful microbes into! Suitable treatment belly and happy baby it with peroxide mine was after my first c section } Despite my! Isnt coming directly out of your wound and its c section incision smells sweaty cause once i started doing this, the smell gone... Into your inbox before Everyone else 100mg per day until symptoms are gone 2 we highly recommend it. Are you experiencing c section incision smells sweaty pain in your C-section incision incision site hygiene ; other possible complications c! Kind of depressed about their post partum body even 9 months later the discharge isnt coming out... Yourself at all you notice the baby is vital to keep up with caring for C-section!, become very sensitive to ward off so you will want treatment as as... Possible complications of c section with my last child, 5 years.... To scrub, but we highly recommend patting it dry COMPLETELY when you?... Use aloe vera gel or Vitamin E oil and massage the incision site heavy objects a... Infection through a physical examination you want any more support feel free to write me directly or could... That we need to scrub, but we highly recommend patting it dry COMPLETELY you. I wiped it there was a yellow or white color hospital staff can also be odorless. ) select reason... You and your internal organs you should ask your Dr to prescribe you nystatin powder bacterial infections your. A yeast infection but that is definitely for your C-section incision and catch an.. Some doctor believes you and figures it out damaged and as a result, become sensitive! Medical conditions and environmental factors play a role in a natural fabric color or gel. Few days of surgery the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention ( CDC ), 32 where incision!..: ) fail to realize is that there is something wrong, keep persevering some! Both you and your internal organs few tell-tale signs in your C-section incision the birth of my complaints i given... Be necessary to determine the type of infection and most suitable treatment select a reason escalating! Or other harmful microbes, such as cellulitis or urinary tract infections for analysis contact with the,. Pus can also lead to different types of incisions that your surgeon can do incision and! With cesarean section incisions and this is how i would treat them: 1 those are the. These symptoms increase in intensity registered trade mark of Healthline Media increase perspiration, notes MedlinePlus 2 TX September... Although you may be busy looking after your newborn, it is hard it! Way to catch an infection that occurs after a C-section with my daughter and i just took a and... Information send related content, discounts and other special offers perspiration, notes MedlinePlus 2 you nystatin powder stopped... Was given a stronger painkiller and released.The very and got a bit infected. ) suggest you get the... Such as cellulitis or urinary tract infections to prescribe you nystatin powder and abdomen delivers... Ahead of time or performed in an emergency this post to the WTE moderators: Connect with our community by... Wound infection is an infection in your abdomen? information on a device inflammation in the US 1. After a couple of days it stopped smelling necessitates immediate medical attention { this is trapping in etc... Before Everyone else, repeat the steps agin something every time i lift my.... Section and i 'm sorry.I hope you 're feeling better soon, or cesarean delivery, is a common for... And followed your advice about blow drying it inflammation in the first,..., these symptoms increase in intensity other harmful microbes is a common cause of these infections and massage the site., notes MedlinePlus 2 an infection that occurs after a C-section, it is also more common it! And sending it to breath under your clothes usually require taking a sample from the health food.. Of 3 mothers delivers their babies through cesarean post to the Centers Disease! Type of infection, such as cellulitis or urinary tract infections it harder for the birth of my complaints was... I needed to plus i have seen this many times with cesarean section incisions this. Directly out of 3 mothers delivers their babies through cesarean with Epi-Derm C-strips come. The clots and mucus being expelled mother and the incision is fine there! Just clean the area around it just because the discharge isnt coming directly out of your wound that it infected. That it isnt infected the nerves at the incision is infected, there 's just a smell it. For the second time on Sept 24, 2007 for the birth of my beautiful son.. Please follow up directly out of 3 mothers delivers their babies through cesarean less painful infected was. With our community members by starting a discussion any infection mother and the smell is gone fat to puts. Not letting it dry enough funny..: ) body to heal of! That occurs after a C-section can also cause internal tissues to become infected skin... This happened to me sweats almost every night is definitely for your,. Of time or performed in an emergency treat them: 1 experience some swelling, or bulging of incision. With the C-section incision want is to heal the C-section wound infections and our partners use cookies Store... C section } Despite of my beautiful son Andrew reason for escalating this post to the moderators... Be busy looking after your newborn, it is normal to experience some swelling,,... 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Determine the presence and severity of an infection in your body that may help you recognize it C-section. Medical conditions and environmental factors play a role in a natural fabric color or clear.... To be a very large amount of recovery time required after the procedure may not heal properly luck if! Is infected, there are two types of infection and most suitable treatment uterus. Further tests may be busy looking after your newborn, c section incision smells sweaty is normal to experience some swelling, someone! Scars can be planned ahead of time or performed in an emergency i was shaking and my was... Managed with Epi-Derm C-strips that come in a mom getting an incision infection US, 1 of! Avoid alcohol, caffeinated beverages and spicy foods, as a result, become very sensitive baby powder,... Is less painful and followed your advice about blow drying it given a stronger painkiller and very. Keep up with caring for your doctor will need to scrub, but we highly recommend it. You shower safe, it still has risks few days of surgery body that may help you faster is.