Having a c section is a big deal! I mean not only are you having a baby but in order to get your beautiful little human out, you have to undergo major abdominal surgery. It is the healing process that has us questioning why there is plastic sticking out of your c section incision and whether it is normal..
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Plastic or similar objects sticking out of a c section incision is a quiet normal thing to happen, it depends on the type of your suture, and you would need to handle this with patience.
Plastic Sticking Out of C Section Incision
Why is there plastic coming out of my c section incision? A c section is classed as major abdominal surgery. There are three main types of sutures that doctors use to close the birthing incision – staples, stitches, and glue. Reports of plastic being visible after surgery aren’t uncommon. This is totally normal and dependent on the type of suture.
C Section Birth
Why is there plastic sticking out of c section incision? This is a wonder for many moms who have recently given birth. In this article, we will aim to cover everything you need to know about the aftermath of your surgery and what the plastic could be.
The birth of your child is such a magical experience. It’s the time when you count those tiny toes and finally meet the person who has been kicking you from the inside for the past few months.
Having a c section is nowadays depicted as a common procedure. Yet you may have underestimated the length of recovery time you have in front of you. You not only have a beautiful baby to care for but caring for yourself is also on the top of your agenda.
Suturing the Birth Incision
The suture is the main reason many moms tend to worry after their c section. You are physically bound to lighter tasks to ensure you give your body the chance to heal properly.
Let’s take a look at the different types of sutures used.
A common practice for repairing your incision is staples yet more doctors are going down the route of stitching and glue. There is no real evidence to suggest why doctors would use different suture methods, yet the three in question can have very different healing processes.
‣ Staples
Having staples sounds horrendous I know but some moms prefer this method as it gives a neater finish. Your doctor will close the opening with medical staples to give your skin a chance to knit back together.
Most women find that they are removed after a few days and usually before they head home from the hospital.
‣ Glue
This is not all-purpose superglue! The glue used in medical procedures is perfectly safe and used as an alternative.
The best thing about glue is that you don’t have to revisit to get it removed. The glue will hold together the incision and dissolve over time.
‣ Stitches
Becoming popular amongst doctors. Stitches can be dissolvable or not and this will then depend if you have to have them removed. Even though they are more time-consuming the infection rate after birth is known to be lessened considerably compared to using staples.
When you recover you may notice white plastic sticking out of the c section incision this is no cause for alarm your medical team has not left anything inside but it is more likely to be the overhang of internal stitches or staples that will dissolve over time.
Let’s be fair, the thought of something alien sticking out of our skin is not the best feeling and you may feel like a juice box with a straw for a while but give it time and these plastic ends will disappear. If they are bothering you a considerable amount then check with your OBGYN to see if they can snip them shorter.
Why is The C Section Recovery So Long?
Recovery time for a c section varies depending on the woman. The general advice is to take it easy and do no heavy lifting or driving for at least 6-8 weeks. But why so long?
During a c section the doctors cut through many layers of tissue and muscle to get to your uterus. In total it is estimated that after 3 months your body has gone through most of the healing process inside yet it could be longer before you feel totally normal again.
If you have used dissolvable stitches for a period the evidence will remain visible. Even though it doesn’t take long for your wounds to knit together it will be a much longer time before you notice the stitches have dissolved.
Correct Care After a C Section
After a c section, your doctor will run through all the dos and don’ts I am sure but here’s a gentle reminder.
‣ Don’t Overdo It
If you feel great, don’t overdo it. Your body needs time to adjust to not only the healing process but your uterus and empty belly will be deflating.
‣ Steps for Steri Strips
If you have steri strips over your incision then there is no need to cover these as well. They are acting like a barrier to keep your tummy clean and free from infection. After a week or so they may begin to fall off which is expected.
‣ Washing
Keeping clean is essential after a c section. Showering is best after surgery but only when you have given it enough time. When you shower allow water to run over your tummy but avoid using perfumed soaps and never scrub.
‣ Observe
Take a look at your incision every day. The best way to understand the healing process is to watch it improve over time. If you notice any redness or swelling you must seek advice.
‣ Limit Exercise
In fact, give yourself a few months off! You have just put your body through an ordeal. You have to allow time for your muscles to regain their strength before exercising. Doing too much too soon could reopen the tissues. A perfect reason to stay on the couch and snuggle your little human.
‣ Baggy is Best
The looser clothes the better. You probably couldn’t think of anything worse when it comes to tight clothing but baggy outfits will prevent irritation on the surface of your skin.
‣ Take Your Meds
Pain relief will be your best friend in these few weeks. Keep on top of your meds until the bitter end. You have a long process of healing to go and your body is fighting fast to regain strength so help yourself and take the pain meds.
C Section Healing From the Inside
Your internal incisions start to mend straight after the birth and dissolvable stitches will ensure that your tissues inside have healed after around two weeks but you are far from recovery just yet!
You haven’t got x-ray vision, yet you can understand the cues of when you are healing inside. As the weeks go on you will notice your body feeling stronger, it will be easier to move, and pain and swelling will be reduced. All these signs are great for signaling a good healing process.
Problems After a C Section
Usually, it is uncommon for your wound to reopen after surgery but it is not unknown! Your stitches are holding your incision closed yet if they are put under too much pressure they will be forced to open.
‣ Doing Too Much
Doing too much too soon, won’t technically open your stitches. You really have to give it some welly to rip them apart. In many cases, it can happen because of revisiting the gym too soon or lifting heavy objects around the home. The general rule of thumb is don’t lift anything heavier than your baby.
‣ Infections
Infections can occur, if your wound has got infected then you will need medication and your doctor may need to investigate your incision. If an infection does occur then you must rest for longer. Your body needs time to fight the infection as well as heal from surgery.
When To Seek Medical Attention
If you have noticed a change in anything relating to your c section scar you must seek advice immediately. The sooner you get checked the better.
Infections can be stopped in their tracks and you can begin to feel somewhat normal again.
Drastic action would need to be made if you notice any of the following:
- Extreme pain
- Severe bleeding from the incision
- Pus or frothy pockets
- Swelling
- Hot spots on your scar
- Fever
- Dizziness
Wrapping Up
It is essential to understand that plastic sticking out of c section incision can be normal and totally dependent on the surgical suture your doctor has decided to use.
It is more common when you have staples or stitches and should cause you no harm apart from being grossed out!
After a c section, you need to give yourself time to heal from the inside out. You will have a long road to recovery but many women find it easier after six weeks.
What a great excuse to relax, put your feet up, cuddle your baby and let others run around to do the housework.
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