If you are expecting to have a C-section there are a few side effects and complication you should be aware of.
These side affects that could occur following a c-section however many of these complications rarely occur at all. Having said that, staying aware of possible complications could help you avoid them.
Postpartum depression after a c-section
After having a baby it’s quite common to go through some depression and mood swings due to hormone changes. Normal post natal blues last about 3-10 days following birth and should subside without treatment, however any of the following indicates you should contact your doctor immediately:
- Depression lasting longer than 2 weeks could mean full post partum depression and can include:
- Strong feelings of depression, anger, doubt, guilt, or helplessness that gets worse over time
- An inability to care for themselves or their baby
- Change in appetite
- Anxiety or panic attacks
- Intense concern or perhaps no interest at all in your baby
- Suicidal thoughts
Bleeding after a c-section
Following a c-section some bleeding is normal. However heavy, persistent bleeding is not. This could mean postpartum hemorrhage caused by placenta or uterine problems.
For example, the placenta can attach itself more strongly to the uterine wall preventing easy separation of the placenta after delivery causing it to bleed. Placentia problems occur more often in women who have had at least one previous c-section or have had Placentia problems in the past.
Infection after a c-section
Infections occur in about 10-20% of c-section surgeries. Infections can occur in or around the incision site, urinary tract infections can occur as well as uterine infections
The easiest infection to avoid is around the incision site. Proper and careful care can help avoid this type of infection. Internal infections are rare however they are often more serious.
Nerve injury after a c-section
Since a c-section is surgery you will have cut nerves in your skin. The good news is these nerves will heal along with the healing of your skin; the bad news is some nerves do not heal. Symptoms can result in loss of feeling in your skin, pain in muscles or problems controlling muscles. Symptoms often go away in time but some do not and may even require additional surgeries.
Adverse reactions to medication after c-section
Anytime you have surgery you will receive medications. In some cases reactions to medications or anesthesia can occur causing itchiness or rashes. Serious or fatal reactions are rare, however be sure to tell your doctor about all allergies and answer questions as accurately as you can.
Delayed bowel function after Cesarean
This is common after surgery. If your bowel function slows after a c-section you will be given clear liquids until activity re-occurs. Once you begin passing gas this will mean normal functions are returning.
Blood clots following c-section
Blood clots are generally your friend. When you bleed, either inside or outside your body, you blood will clot in order to stop the flow of blood. The problem occurs if the blood clot flows away and gets stuck in blood vessels. If a clot gets stuck in an artery or vein it can block the flow of blood.
After having a c-section blood clots can occure in the veins of the leg. This is known as deep venous thrombosis. This type of clot more often occurs in extremely heavy patients or patients that don’t move soon enough after surgery; it also has a tendency to occur if you’ve had previous blood clots.
Be aware that blood clots after a c-section can move from blood vessels to your lungs causing shortness of breath known as pulmonary embolus. In such cases blood thinning medications work very well.
Adhesions following c-sections
An Adhesion is the scar tissue that forms a connection between tissues or organs. This connection can form between the uterus, fallopian tubes, bladder, intestines or other organs. Adhesions can occur and cause no problems at all, however in some cases they can cause pain, vomiting or even severe abdominal or pelvic pain and in some cases even bowel obstructions.
Treatment depends on the seriousness of the complications. If there is significant pain or obstruction you may need another surgery, however another surgery to remove the adhesions can cause even more adhesions making the situation worse. Having multiple c-sections increases the risk of adhesions; this is because each surgery causes more scar tissue.
