Signs of Infection after a C-section - & When to Seek Medical Advice
A C-section is a major operation, which requires a long recovery time – both in hospital and when you get back home.
And as part of that recovery, you will need to care for the cut that was made in your abdomen during the operation, to enable the doctor to bring out your baby. This wound will be dressed and tended during your post-birth hospital stay, and you will get advice from the midwives on how to look after it at home.
But the big risk is that your wound will become infected. Research by the Health Protection Agency suggests that 10% of women may develop a wound infection after a C-section. (See 1.)
There are certain factors that can increase your chances of post-caesarean wound infection, such as: (See 2.+3.)
Obesity
Smoking
Poor diet
Previous C-sections
Diabetes
Excessive blood loss during the birth
Further information on - Signs of Infection after a C-section:
1. NHS - Caring for your wound after having a caesarean section
https://www.mkuh.nhs.uk/patient-information-leaflet/caring-for-your-wound-after-having-a-caesarean-section Accessed on 24/03/23
2. NHS - Caring for your wound after having a caesarean section
https://www.mkuh.nhs.uk/patient-information-leaflet/caring-for-your-wound-after-having-a-caesarean-section Accessed on 24/03/23
3. Healthline - Post-Cesarean Wound Infection: How Did This Happen?
https://www.healthline.com/health/pregnancy/post-cesarean-wound-infection#risk-factors Accessed on 24/03/23
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But the most important thing to remember is that, if you see or feel a problem with your wound, then you must speak to your doctor or midwife as soon as possible.
How to reduce the risk of infection
Looking after your C-section wound at home is an essential part of avoiding infection. Your midwife will normally visit you after you leave hospital and advise you on exactly what to do, but the general advice is to:
Keep the wound clean and dry
Have showers, rather than baths, then gently pat your wound dry with kitchen paper or a towel.
Wear loose clothing
Wear loose clothes and underwear, to avoid rubbing on the wound.
Keep an eye on your wound
Watch carefully for any signs of infection (see below) and seek help if you think anything is wrong.
Don’t touch the wound
Don’t allow yourself – or anyone else - to touch your wound unless you/they have had a thorough hand wash.
Keep your wound supported
Support your wound if you cough, laugh, or move suddenly.
Further Info on - How to reduce the risk of infection:
4. NHS – Caesarean section recovery https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/caesarean-section/recovery/ Accessed on 23/03/23
5. NHS - Caring for your wound after having a caesarean section
https://www.mkuh.nhs.uk/patient-information-leaflet/caring-for-your-wound-after-having-a-caesarean-section Accessed on 24/03/23
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Red flag infection signs
If you notice any of the following, then you must contact your GP or midwife immediately – as they are all possible signs of infection:
Severe pain in your abdomen or womb
Pain when peeing
Bad-smelling fluid, or pus, coming from your wound
Leaking urine when you don’t mean to
Heavy vaginal bleeding
Coughing, chest pain or shortness of breath
Pain, redness or swelling in your lower leg muscles
Having a high temperature, or feeling feverish
Any one of these could suggest that you have an infection. So, even if you feel unsure, you must tell your GP or midwife as soon as possible.
Because, if you do have an infection, treatment must start ASAP - as soon as possible, to clear the problem and stop it spreading to other parts of your body. (See 6.)
6. NHS – Caesarean section recovery https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/caesarean-section/recovery/ Accessed on 23/03/23
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