How to Recognize Signs of Common C-Section Infections?

Medical doctors performing operation in hospital

How to Recognize Signs of Common C-Section Infections?

Infections are possible after c-section. In this surgery, there are two incisions: at the skin and at the uterus. Both incisions need to heal for complete recovery.

Common infections

The commonest infections occur at the incision site. It is from here that bacteria enter your body. Bacterial infections like streptococcus or staphylococcus can be problematic. In cases wherein c-section took place after the water sac broke, bacteria get another route to enter your body. In this case, you can be at risk of uterine membrane infection. Some women develop infection at the internal layer of the uterus or the endometrium, known as endometriosis.

You can also suffer from bladder infections. During a c-section, the doctor inserts a catheter inside the bladder to keep it flushed. For 24 hours, you urinate through this catheter. This catheter offers a route for bacteria. That’s why it is important to keep the catheter clean and drained of urine. Bladder infection can go all the way to the kidneys.

It is smart to educate yourselves about c-section infections and how to treat them.

Detecting c-section infections

Infection at skin incision site

When the surgical site is infected, you will see redness, swelling, or pus-like fluid oozing from the site. If the incision has reopened for some reason, blood can ooze out. If your skin shows staples, the affected area will be sore. You may also feel abdominal pain. You must consult a reputed Gynecologist in Noida Extension immediately.

Infection at uterus incision site

Abdominal pain indicates uterus infection. You may not see anything wrong at the skin incision site. You might also develop fever and chills as the white cells rush to combat the infection. If you have high fever, yet there is nothing wrong at the incision site, chances are high that the uterus incision site is infected. You must contact your doctor immediately. Another sign is vaginal discharge with a foul smell.

Infection of the bladder

When your bladder is infected, you feel pain during urination. You may also pass blood with urine.

One of the most dangerous infections

Septicemia is a dangerous infection. It happens when bacterial infection spreads to the blood.The infection causes an abrupt rise in fever, chills, rapid breathing, and fast heartbeat.The infection can progress to septic shock. This is characterized by hypothermia, low blood pressure, blood clotting problems, and mental problems like confusion. Septicemia is a serious medical condition. It can be fatal too. Rush to your doctor in this case.

Treatment

In case of infection at the site, the doctor would culture your wound to take the fluid and see what kind of bacteria is present. Antibiotics is the common treatment plan.Oral antibiotics generally suffice, but in some cases, you may need IV antibiotics. The doctor knows best what course of treatment is needed in your case. In case you are breastfeeding, you must tell this to your doctor.

Conclusion:

It is important to follow your doctor’s instructions carefully after c-section surgery. If you are too fast to resume your routine, you might reopen the incision site and invite bacterial infection. This would mean prolonged recovery. As soon as you notice anything wrong, consult your gynecologist without delay.