What happens if your C-section scar opens?
An internal C-section opening or rupture is rare, but much more serious. You’ll likely need to have surgery to close this. In very rare cases, the uterus might need to be removed if it’s very damaged or infected. This surgery is called a hysterectomy.
Why is my C-section incision opening?
The opening of a wound may be a minor issue, such as when a suture comes loose or a very small area of the incision starts to pull apart. But it may also be a major problem if the entire incision opens, particularly if you can see the tissue below or if it starts to come out through the incision.
Can a C-section scar reopen after 5 years?
The short answer is: yes, a cesarean scar can reopen years after the operation. (Dehiscence in med-speak.) This is, however, highly unlikely. It can happen for a range of reasons, stemming from having to undergo other surgery, giving birth vaginally, or simply experiencing stress and strain.
What to do if an incision opens?
Things to consider
- If you incision breaks open, call your doctor.
- If your incision is red, this may be a sign of infection.
- If your incision bleeds, replace your bandage with a clean, dry bandage or gauze.
- If you’re outside in the sun, cover your scar with tape or sunscreen for the first 6 months after surgery.
Can old incisions reopen?
Wound dehiscence occurs when a surgical incision reopens either internally or externally. It’s also known simply as dehiscence. Although this complication can occur after any surgery, it tends to happen most often following abdominal or cardiothoracic procedures.
Can an old C-section scar tear?
The most serious one is that an old C-section scar could tear open during labour (uterine rupture). This is rare but can be very serious if it happens. A C-section is major surgery and has risks. Each added scar on the uterus from C-section or other surgery raises the chance of problems in the next pregnancy.
Can an old surgical scar reopen?
Wound dehiscence occurs when a surgical incision reopens either internally or externally. It’s also known simply as dehiscence. Although this complication can occur after any surgery, it tends to happen most often following abdominal or cardiothoracic procedures. It’s commonly associated with a surgical site infection.
Why does my old C-section scar hurt?
Some women feel pain, restriction, or a pulling sensation on or around their scar months or even years after surgery. This is normally due to the build-up of scar tissue which can stick to muscles or even organs and cause pain.