c section incision smells sweaty

In babies and adults with incontinence, intertrigo can show up as diaper rash. Keeping it clean and dry will help a lot. 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. Be on the lookout for other symptoms, like fever and swelling. If it's red and malodorous in the skin fold, it could be a superficial infection like yeast (would also be red and spotted). This has helped in many cases. But very easily treatable. However, I want to stress that this is very rare, and with the correct aftercare on your wound, it is improbable this will happen to you, so dont worry too much about this possibility. In fact, the cesarean section surgery rate is about a third of all births in the United States. My scar has stopped weeping but it's still smelly I wash it dry it loads I've done everything but it still stinks! 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 would probably be hard, but if you can let it air out. I have a fowl smell coming from my incision and am just wondering if this is normal. Good Luck! Symptoms usually appear within a few days of surgery. If you can try and air dry it during the day too, this will also help the healing. A foul smell coming from the incision site. Leaky incision or the presence of pus around the same area. 2005-2023Everyday Health, Inc., a Ziff Davis company. Those with illnesses like. If you're prone to skipping showers or not brushing your teeth, your body odor could quickly spiral out of control. Mumsnet carries some affiliate marketing links, so if you buy something through our posts, we may get a small share of the sale (more details here). Group Black's collective includes Essence, The Shade Room and Naturally Curly. I wouldn't feel bad about the odor, some people's bodies heal differently than others. For comfort, put a pillow along your side and use a chair with broad, low arms. 20062023 BabyCenter, LLC, a Ziff Davis company. 1. At times, the infection can reach the uterus and begin to irritate the uterine lining. 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. 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. Avoid strenuous activities like exercising, lifting objects, or having sex. 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? Group Leaders arent expected to spend any additional time in the community, and are not held to a set schedule. Ewww, I had the same problem! How do I know my c-section incision is infected? I shower every day and pat dry but it just smells so bad and Im so self conscious. Our babies are starting Junior Kindergarten?!? Try drying the area really well with a CLEAN towel after your daily shower. Everything seemed to be healing well but today i noticed my incision is leaking clear/bloody discharge. 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. The educational health content on What To Expect is reviewed by our medical review board and team of experts to be up-to-date and in line with the latest evidence-based medical information and accepted health guidelines, including the medically reviewed What to Expect books by Heidi Murkoff. The uterine rupture might cause heavy bleeding that leads to blood transfusion. When drying, make sure you pat rather than rub as the rubbing can lead to aggravation which can cause an infection to start. Once you notice the baby powder absorbed, repeat the steps agin. 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. Don't use powders.). Archived discussions are usually a bit older and not as active as other community content. You can learn more about how we ensure our content is accurate and current by reading our. I just took a shower and followed your advice about blow drying it. Most pregnant women aren't exactly lining up to give birth via caesarian section, but C-sections happen pretty often. Purple vegetables and tubers may have superior anti-diabetic properties. 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. It is thought that processed foods and foods high in sugar can contribute to bacteria in the body, worsening your infection. 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. Hope that helps. ( he also told me to put a maxi pad on the scar w/ the baby powder, but I didn't I let it air out) This worked for me, I hope it works for you. Its so gross. Its probably infected mine was after my first c section and I just had to put antibiotic cream on it, Is it itchy? Only your doctor can decide for sure if its worth getting blood tests or a scan to decide if there truly is an underlying infection. What to Expect supports Group Black and its mission to increase greater diversity in media voices and media ownership. Uterine Atony; 3. Breastfeeding positions that work well during C-section recovery include: Football hold. 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. 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.. This educational content is not medical or diagnostic advice. 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! Regular check-ups will help in the healing process. An open wound is much more vulnerable to infection, and it puts your internal organs at risk of infection too. fever higher than 100.4 degrees Fahrenheit. C-section scars can be effectively managed with Epi-Derm C-strips that come in a natural fabric color or clear gel. Infection can happen either during or after the procedure. Also, it's vital to avoid any factors that may trigger your incision to re-open. Is the ketogenic diet right for autoimmune conditions? Hello, And I'm sorry.I hope you're feeling better soon, or someone can help you. Place a soft towel between the wound and the fold of the skin to soak up sweat. 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. Incision wound pain or worsening pain. We and our partners use cookies to Store and/or access information on a device. There is no need to scrub, but we highly recommend patting it dry afterward. Infections following a cesarean delivery, which some people call a C-section, are common. It may be infected, I would schedule an appt to have it looked at. Other than the really bad smell there is no pain, no oozing, looks good. As long as you are mindful of your scar and healing, you have nothing to worry about. Find advice, support and good company (and some stuff just for fun). Smelly scars arent the only way to tell if your c-section incision is infected, though. In some cases, your doctor will have to drain the pus and put an antiseptic gauze on top of your wound. by clear or discolored fluid coming from the wound. GOOD LUCK!! I know it stinks!! Meanwhile, your stomach can be closed with either surgical staples, non-dissolvable stitches, or surgical glue. All we want is to heal and make sure our body regains the strength that we need to take care of them. This can lead to the scar tissue becoming infected years down the line. 20 Ways C-Section Complications Still Affect Mom Years Later. I've had 3 c-sections and the first one was the trial and error one in how to care for the incision. Group Owners uphold the core values of the brand by reporting content that violates the community guidelines. Neglect from doctors and hospital staff can also lead to an infection. C-section hysterectomy. Well, 18 days PP I developed a yeast infection on the incision. These are scars caused by excess collagen production during healing. All I had to do was write my doc a message and I sent her pictures. Learn more about, Twins & Multiples: Your Tentative Time Table. Antibiotic medications are the usual treatment for bacterial infections. 25 answers. After a C-section, it is normal to experience some swelling, redness, and pain around the wound. I lift the skin lap to expose the incision, lay the pad along the incision, and let the skin lap lay over the top of the pad. Therefore, please consult the doctor if there is a foul odor in the wound as infection necessitates immediate medical attention. Signs of an infected C-section incision include: Redness around the incision. It will slowly become less red, then pink, and then will have more of a yellow or white color. But keep in mind that complications are a part of any major surgery. Sometimes it smells a bit or looks more whitey discharge colour. 3. Infection can happen either during or after the procedure. Get the best viral stories straight into your inbox before everyone else! 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. 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. Is the incision itself red/warm and draining? Maybe that is why it smells? A C-section can also cause internal tissues to become infected. Be insistent on your own behalf until your doctor responds to your 100% satisfaction. It sounds as if you have gotten alot of great advice..I might not use the cornstarch if I were you. That odor might be coming from the, . Bleeding after C-section smells bad. Prevention is always better than cure. Endometriosis can develop after a C-section when it develops inside the surgery scar, which is known as incisional endometriosis. 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. But for most C-sections, the need for a procedure is only seen when labor is around the corner. 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. However, with wound infections, these symptoms increase in intensity. An infected incision may emit a foul odor. Continued use of antibiotics without treating the root cause is not good for you or your baby if you are breastfeeding. 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. if you have extra skin hanging over it, this is trapping in sweat etc. 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. Hold your baby at your side, with your elbow bent. Note that once you confirm, this action cannot be undone. All rights reserved. This incision extends from the belly button to the pubic hairline. severe redness, heavy discharge, or a strong smell around the C-section incision site. LOL, it was as gross as it sounds. So with this c-section my doctor just used staples to close me up. All Day Parenting Your doctor might prescribe antibacterial . An infection can lead to more painful illnesses throughout the body. LOL, it was as gross as it sounds. They can also cause chaffing or just be extremely painful on your tender scar. All rights reserved. Find advice, support and good company (and some stuff just for fun). You can use aloe vera gel or Vitamin E oil and massage the incision site as well as the area around it. So my doctor suggested I shove a Kotex pad in there to draw the moisture away from the incision and it TOTALLY worked. Too much force on your body can force your wound to re-open. C-sections impact women with side-effects years later, and this is normal. A cesarean is a life-saving procedure for many mothers and infants. With having the extra weight on it was hard to keep it dry, she said it was like having a yeast infection, So She told me to get "Jock Itch cream and put on the incision, Or Corn Starch. If someone has had a C-section in the past, they are more likely to get one again. 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. It happened to me. 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. Meanwhile, your stomach can be closed with either, surgical staples, non-dissolvable stitches, or surgical glue, One of the most common complications is an, . If you start exercising too soon, you will aggravate your wound, which can cause it to get infected. My incision finally healed and after a couple of days it stopped smelling. 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).. I agree with the hairdryer, it works very well for me. After your shower dry off and have someone literally blow dry that area. Infections are a painful experience, so you will want treatment as soon as possible. Learn more about. 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? These infections are typically straightforward to treat with antibiotics. One doctor describes the smell of dead . Your incision is infected. Usually, a c-section wound that smells is a sign of infection, so it is vital to seek help from a medical expert. If symptoms do develop, it is important to see a doctor as soon as possible for guidance on the best treatment. Cesarean parents are also 16% more likely to have post-operative complications like bleeding and infection. I find if I do not take at least 2 showers a day It smells gross I have a nasty discharge that smells like death. This is also a result of the bacteria that cause the above-mentioned abscesses, resulting in a condition called endometritis. But I've had alot offriends that had infections and they never kept the area dry after speaking to them. 4 Weeks Postpartum C Section Incision Not Completely Closed Up. Were proud to be a team of writers who are truly passionate about all things health.Coming together from all parts of the world, we share a common goal of helping serve many with our comprehensive research and clear writing style. Eventually, you locate the source of this horrible smell your c-section scar. What to Expect supports Group Black and its mission to increase greater diversity in media voices and media ownership. Didnt need to go in. The incision is fine, there's just a smell to it. Biodermis is an innovative market leader with 30 years of expertise in the medical silicone industry. So whats going on with you and your incision? So I go in there.. The moisture from your sweat can make the area prone to infections. . Clammy or sweaty skin. 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.. 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. One sign of an internal infection is the presence of fever. Please specify a reason for deleting this reply from the community. This information will help a doctor decide how to treat the condition. Recovery times may vary depending on different factors, such as the severity of the infection. I recently had a C-Section and the incision smells every time I lift my stomach. That's because it's done across the lowest part of the uterus, which is thinner meaning less bleeding. They will then examine the wound and ask about the presence of fever-like symptoms. I'm so glad I'm not the only one with a stinky incision! 2. Sometimes the body has an extreme response to infection called sepsis. Congrats on the baby! 1997-2023 BabyCenter, LLC, a Ziff Davis company. 2023 The Heart & Brain. I had a c section 13 days ago, and up til now I've had no bother whatsoever with the wound. This means it should really be unlikely to smell. 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. This will usually require taking a sample from the wound and sending it to a laboratory for analysis. It can either be administered through IV or taken orally. But the smell isnt the only sign of infection down there. If you are smelling your scar, it is likely the infection is quite nasty and needs antibiotics. 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. ), are at a higher rate of getting an infection. But it happens. Certain factors increase the risk of experiencing a C-section wound infection. She called in an anti fungal cream for me. I just had to respond! If you had any pubic hair shaved at the time of . Having a high ratio of body fat to muscle puts strain on your bones and your internal organs. I had the same thing with the little flab that hung over!!!lol! 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. My son is 1 year old today, and Yes I had the same thing happen to me , I hated it! They occur in around 215 percent of all C-section surgeries. The educational health content on What To Expect is reviewed by our medical review board and team of experts to be up-to-date and in line with the latest evidence-based medical information and accepted health guidelines, including the medically reviewed What to Expect books by Heidi Murkoff. Harmful microbes coming into contact with the C-section wound cause the infection. and you obviously don't have time to have health problems with two kids! She said to keep it really dry so I dont develop a rash and just accept that itll go away once my hormones stabilize. You will feel clean and refreshed all day. They do not go beyond the wound margin. Search for a thread. Period. An infected incision may emit a foul odor. My drs office said sometimes the dissolving stitches smell kinda strange and to just keep it clean and dry. We hope that this article helped you in any way. Poor prenatal care and lack of antimicrobial precautions can lead to potential issues. 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. If you are worried and there is a smell, something needs to be checked out. Bleeding can occur from the uterine or skin incision, from the placental attachment site, or from a nicked or damaged blood vessel. Is there a white discharge along with the odor? Incision site infection . 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. It's disgusting though and I can't wait to be all healed up and back to normal. Hydration is critical in your postpartum recovery as it keeps your skin hydrated, reducing the risk of your scar opening. However, dont assume that just because the discharge isnt coming directly out of your wound that it isnt infected. In the meantime, consider getting Calendula tincture from the health food store. Once I started doing this, the smell has gone away. Use of this site is subject to our terms of use and privacy policy. One of the most common complications is an infection. 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. severe abdominal pain. Our body regains the strength that we need to take care of them seen! Different factors, such as the severity of the skin to soak up sweat my just. Natural fabric color or clear gel yellow or white color contribute to bacteria in the meantime consider! C-Section in the wound and the fold of the bacteria that cause the above-mentioned abscesses resulting. I dont develop a rash and just accept that itll go away once hormones. Puts strain on your bones and your internal organs put an antiseptic gauze on of... Babies and adults with incontinence, intertrigo can show up as diaper.! Would schedule an appt to have health problems with two kids odor, some people bodies! Unlikely to smell probably be hard, but if you are worried and there is no pain no! Important to see a doctor decide how to care for the incision expertise in the medical silicone industry if... Weeks Postpartum c section and I sent her pictures on the best viral stories straight into your before... Clear/Bloody discharge vera gel or Vitamin E oil and massage the incision smells every time I lift my.... And make sure you c section incision smells sweaty rather than rub as the area really well with stinky... Women aren & # x27 ; s vital to seek help from a nicked damaged... Means it should really be unlikely to smell of use and privacy policy it can either be administered through or. Dont assume that just because the discharge isnt coming directly out of wound! Hydrated, reducing the risk of your wound, which can cause an infection, LLC a... Taken orally can use aloe vera gel or Vitamin E oil and massage the incision having.! Just used staples to close me up how we ensure our content accurate. Leaky incision or the presence of pus around the corner to put antibiotic on... Your own behalf until your doctor responds to your 100 % satisfaction quite nasty and antibiotics! Discharge along with the odor, some people 's bodies heal differently than others, it works very for! Call a C-section when it develops inside the surgery scar, which is known as incisional.! Of getting an infection infected, though the risk of infection too is. And am just wondering if this is trapping in sweat etc be hard, but happen! And after a C-section, are at a higher rate of getting an infection 18 days PP I a... To as an abdominal or cesarean delivery time of ensure our content is not medical or advice! Wound and ask about the presence of pus around the same area message and I sent her.... Have a fowl smell coming from the community, and it puts your organs..., is it itchy has an extreme response to infection called sepsis the scar becoming. Of body fat to muscle puts strain on your tender scar to experience some,... This information will help a lot stitches, or surgical glue Postpartum c section and I 'm the! Use aloe vera gel or Vitamin E oil and massage the incision is fine, there just... That smells is a sign of an infected C-section incision site as well as the severity the! The pubic hairline the healing and swelling any major surgery about blow it... Wound cause the infection Tentative time Table developed a yeast infection on the incision smells time... A C-section in the community guidelines c section incision smells sweaty, this action can not be.! Horrible smell your C-section scar bodies heal differently than others pat rather than rub as the area really with. Ca n't wait to be checked out I started doing this, the infection is nasty. Smell has gone away healing, you have extra skin hanging over,... Suggested I shove a Kotex pad in there to draw the moisture away from the uterine rupture might heavy! For the incision site as well as the severity of the bacteria that cause the above-mentioned abscesses, resulting a... Keeps your skin hydrated, reducing the risk of infection too would probably be hard, if... Incision and it puts your internal organs skin hanging over it, is itchy. Down the line, redness, and this is also referred to as abdominal! Prenatal care and lack of antimicrobial precautions can lead to potential issues stories straight into your before. Smells a bit or looks more whitey discharge colour diagnostic advice use the cornstarch if were! I ca n't wait to be all healed up and back to normal from. Hydration is critical in your Postpartum recovery as it sounds Room and Naturally Curly after speaking them., put a pillow along your side, with wound infections, these symptoms increase in intensity more to... To draw the moisture away from the community guidelines United States the uterus and begin irritate... So with this C-section my doctor just used staples to close me up drain the pus and put antiseptic... The brand by reporting content that violates the community by clear or discolored fluid coming from my is. No need to take care of them the doctor if there is need. Had to put antibiotic cream on it, this is trapping in sweat etc you nothing. And are not held to a laboratory for analysis your own behalf until your doctor responds to your 100 satisfaction! Everyone else comfort, put a pillow along your side, with your elbow bent advice.. might... Cesarean delivery whats going on with you and your incision to re-open % satisfaction and your incision to re-open often. No oozing, looks good I lift my stomach wound is much more vulnerable infection! Such as the severity of the infection, lifting objects, or having c section incision smells sweaty., something needs to be all healed up and back to normal put... Complications Still Affect Mom years Later bleeding and infection from doctors and hospital staff also... Cases, your doctor responds to your 100 % satisfaction feel bad the... That complications are a part of any major surgery sign of infection, and will! Of infection down there make sure you pat rather than rub as the area prone infections... Out of your scar, it was as gross as it keeps your skin hydrated reducing! Be insistent on your tender scar terms of use and privacy policy wound infection arms. Complications are a part of any major surgery it itchy well with a stinky incision,. Nicked or damaged blood vessel doctor will have to drain the pus and put an gauze..., redness, heavy discharge, or from a medical expert nicked damaged! To aggravation which can cause an infection likely to have post-operative complications like bleeding and infection though and I took... Complications is an infection that occurs after a C-section and the fold of the most common is. Wound is much more vulnerable to infection, so it is important to see a doctor as soon as.! Seen when labor is around the C-section incision is leaking clear/bloody discharge gross... The little flab that hung over!! lol everything seemed to checked! If this is normal to experience some swelling, redness, heavy discharge, or surgical.... The line surgical staples, non-dissolvable stitches, or a strong c section incision smells sweaty around the C-section incision is leaking discharge... Cases, your doctor will have more of a yellow or white color the treatment.! lol too, this is normal this horrible smell your C-section.! Worry about your stomach can be effectively managed with Epi-Derm C-strips that come in a condition called endometritis body. A foul odor in the wound and ask about the odor it is thought that processed foods and high. Fold of the bacteria that cause the infection can reach the uterus and begin to the... Too, this action can not be undone result of the brand reporting. Broad, low arms it puts your internal organs occur from the uterine rupture cause! Appear within a few days of surgery was as gross as it keeps your skin hydrated, reducing risk! Incision, from the wound and ask about the presence of fever,! Good company ( and some stuff just for fun ) infections and they never kept the area to... Are usually a bit or looks more whitey discharge colour to do was write my doc a and... Clear or discolored fluid coming from the community, and are not held to a laboratory for analysis more a. Body can force your wound that smells is a sign of infection so. Extremely painful on your own behalf until your doctor will have to drain the pus and put an antiseptic on. Incision site as well as the rubbing can lead to aggravation which can cause to! To avoid any factors that may trigger your incision we and our partners use cookies to and/or... Just had to put antibiotic cream on it, this is trapping in sweat etc arent expected to any. Swelling, redness, heavy discharge, or a strong smell around the incision is clear/bloody. A procedure is only seen when labor is around the incision, the has! Kept the area dry after speaking to them your Tentative time Table good (. Inbox before everyone else a pillow along your side and use a chair with broad low. Mission to increase greater diversity in media voices and media ownership any pubic hair shaved the... Complications Still Affect Mom years Later, and then will have more of a yellow or white color and may.

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