Overview
A C-section is major belly surgery. Expect soreness, tiredness, and vaginal bleeding for several weeks.
Wound problems include infection, the incision opening, or fluid under the skin.
Symptoms
Common signs:
- Pregnant or recently gave birth: soreness around the incision
- Vaginal bleeding that slowly lightens
Less common
- Numb skin near the scar
- Gas pain
When to get medical care
Causes
Infection from germs on the skin, poor healing, or pressure on the wound.
Who is more likely to get it
- Obesity
- Diabetes
- Smoking
- Emergency C-section
Possible complications
Diagnosis
Your care team checks the incision at follow-up visits.
Questions you may be asked
- Fever, pain, drainage, or leg swelling
The exam
They'll look at and feel the incision.
Tests
Tests, if needed:
- Wound culture or ultrasound: If there's drainage or swelling.
Treatment
Take it slow and care for the incision.
Self-care
- Keep the incision clean and dry: pat it dry after showering
- Hold a pillow over your belly: when you cough or laugh
- Walk a little each day: it lowers the chance of blood clots
- Don't lift anything heavier than your baby: for about 6 weeks
Medicines
Medicines that may help:
| Medicine | Helps with | Good to know |
|---|---|---|
| Pain relievers | Incision pain | Use prescribed pain medicine only as directed. |
OwieClear doesn't give doses: follow the label or your healthcare professional. Medicine names here are examples, not a full list.
Ask when it's OK to drive, exercise, and have sex.
Prevention
To heal well:
- Keep the incision clean
- Walk daily
- Don't smoke
Which doctor treats this
- Urgent care or the ER can treat it first. For minor problems, your primary care provider can help.
- They may send you to an OB-GYN or midwife; high-risk pregnancies may see a maternal-fetal medicine doctor.
Back to school, work, or sports
- Most people can go to school or work. Keep the wound clean and covered.
- Avoid pools and hot tubs until the skin heals.
Children, pregnancy, and older adults
- Mental health: Postpartum depression can follow any birth. Ask for help.
Outlook
Most people heal fully in about 6 weeks.
Getting ready for your visit
Bring a list of your symptoms and medicines.
Questions to ask
- How should I care for my incision?
- When can I drive and exercise?
Research studies
Research studies test new ways to find and treat health problems. Some are looking for volunteers. Talk with your doctor before joining one.
Search ClinicalTrials.gov for studies on C-section recovery and wound problems
Sources
Last updated 2026-11-12.