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The process of giving birth to a baby is something beautiful and life-changing. This is a trip that requires cesarean delivery for many mothers (C-section). Although C-sections are widespread and are usually made safe, they remain significant abdominal surgeries. There are potential complications, as with any surgery, and a hernia after a C-section is one of them.
A hernia following a cesarean delivery is normally an incisional hernia, that is, it occurs at the place where the surgeon made an incision during the operation. Following a C-section, your body requires time to heal as the abdominal muscles and tissues take time to heal themselves.
This healing process may be interrupted or made weak, and thus a gap may develop in the abdominal wall. It is this that enables tissue, usually a section of the intestine, to herald in a scene or, at times, an unseen bulge.
This is unlike any other form of hernia, such as an umbilical hernia or inguinal hernia, since it is directly associated with the location of a C-section.
The occurrence of hernias in C-section delivery is due to the abdominal wall having been cut to give birth to the baby. When the body is healing, the tissue and muscles ought to be closed and strengthened. Unless this is done adequately, the area will be in an exposed position.
A hernia caused by cesarean section can occur due to a number of factors, including:
Basically, anything that causes an additional strain to your healing incision makes you more likely to develop a hernia.
C-section hernias are not very frequent, but they occur. Studies indicate that a C-section has a risk of 0.0-5.6% of developing incisional hernia based on personal attributes such as health, surgical procedure and post-surgery care.
Although these figures can be considered petite, when several C-sections are carried out per year in different parts of the world, it amounts to a large number of women being affected.
The positive thing is that proper care and early diagnosis significantly decrease the possibility of severe complications.
You should not ignore it if you feel that you have a hernia. The early diagnosis will help to avoid more serious issues.
Your doctor will typically:
Early referral will help you know what to do and avoid complications such as bowel obstruction or strangulation.
It is important to be aware of hernia symptoms following a C-section. There are those signs that may be developed shortly after surgery, and others may take months or even years. The following are the most common symptoms to be observed:
There can be digestive symptoms when a portion of your intestines get stuck in the hernia.
This might be a sign of the infection or inflammation, so there is a necessity to pay attention to a medical expert.
A hernia that has developed after a cesarean section is treated according to its size, location and severity.
Surgery is normally required in the event that the hernia is painful or dangerous:
Surgical repair is very successful, and it prevents complications such as strangulation or obstruction.
It also takes time to recover after having hernia surgery, and this is more so because your body has been through a C-section.
The most important aspect of avoiding recurrence is patience and good treatment.
Some causes predispose to the appearance of the hernia:
When more than one of these risk factors exists, you must take additional precautions.
Hernias are not all preventable, but you can do things to minimize your risk:
Rest on command and shun hard work in the early stages of recovery.
Using a belly supportive band, such as the Momcozy Ergowrap™ Postpartum Belly Band can:
Step-by-step weight loss will reduce the pressure on the abdominal wall.
Protein, vitamin and mineral-rich foods aid in tissue repair.
In the first 6-8 weeks after surgery, in particular.
Maintain conditions such as diabetes or asthma to help in improved healing.
The untreated hernia may produce severe complications:
These complications are any medical crises and must be addressed in a timely manner.
Incisional hernias develop in about 4%-10% of women who have had a C-section in relation to factors such as health and healing conditions.
Yes, in case you have had a hernia previously, you might be at risk of another one. This should be followed with proper support and care as far as future pregnancies are concerned.
Yes. Intussusception hernias may cause digestive symptoms such as constipation, trapped gas, and bloating.
A hernia following a C-section may be an unpleasant experience as it causes some stress, but with early detection, treatment and preventative measures, most women get over it.
With proper actions, you will be able to secure your core, avoid any complications, and concentrate on what is really important: having fun with your new baby.
The information provided in this article is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider regarding any medical condition. Momcozy is not responsible for any consequences arising from the use of this content.
