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C-Section Incision Infection

Cesarean sections are major surgeries that carry the risk of infections. According to the study "Risk Factors for Surgical Site Infection After Low Transverse Cesarean Section," C-sections are the most common surgery in the United States, and women facing surgical site infections (SSI) is on the rise.

  1. Identification

    • The Mayo Clinic describes a C-section incision infection as occurring at or around the incision site. Once infected, it may open at the skin and release pus.

    Prevention/Solution

    • Doctors often administer antibiotics during surgery as a preventive measure, according to the Mayo Clinic, and hospital staff will monitor your incision for signs of infection. Doctors check the surgical site while in the hospital and typically seven to 10 days after surgery at an office visit.

    Warning

    • The Mayo Clinic stresses that women promptly contact their doctors if they suspect an infection. Signs include a fever over 100.4 Fahrenheit; severe abdomen pain; or redness, discharge or increased swelling at the incision site.

    Considerations

    • Margaret A. Olsen, Ph.D., wrote in "Risk Factors for Surgical Site Infection After Low Transverse Cesarean Section," that patients with a higher body mass index (BMI) at admission had a higher risk of SSI. The use of staples instead of sutures was also associated with SSI.

    Expert Insight

    • SSI after a cesarean section increases maternal morbidity and medical costs. The occurrence of SSI can range from 3 percent to 15 percent, according to "Risk Factors for Surgical Site Infection After Low Transverse Cesarean Section."

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