Types of caesarean sections and scars

During childbirth, to avoid possible complications and problems for the mother and baby, the caesarean section technique exists. Do you know exactly what this surgical procedure consists of? Today we talk about the types of caesarean sections and scars. Keep reading!

A caesarean section is a surgical procedure performed during childbirth. This operation consists of opening the abdomen and uterus to remove the baby and placenta.

At present, caesarean section is the most common obstetric operation, because it is considered the safest way to protect the life of both the mother and the foetus against complications caused by childbirth.

Types of caesarean sections

The types of caesarean section can be divided according to two aspects:the timing of the procedure or the area of the incision.

According to timing:

• Elective or scheduled caesarean section. The decision to perform this operation is made before labour begins.
• Intrapartum caesarean section. This surgical procedure is decided during the course of labour.

According to the area of the incision:

• Classical caesarean section. It is uncommon nowadays, as it has a higher risk percentage (4-9%) for uterine rupture in a future pregnancy and also presents higher maternal and foetal mortality.

The cut is made longitudinally, passing through the uterine muscle and causing major bleeding, and it makes the scar fragile.

In addition, a classical caesarean section is only performed in the following cases:previous classical caesarean section, some cases of premature babies, post-mortem caesarean section and the presence of fibroids, large varicose veins or adhesions.

• Lower-segment caesarean section. It is the most common incision, because it is performed in the lower area of the uterus. The cut is made in this area because healing is faster and less muscle tissue is damaged.The types of incisions used in a caesarean section are the following:

Vertical. These are not advisable, as they affect more muscle fibres. The scars from these incisions are more visible than horizontal ones.

Horizontal or low transverse. These cuts damage fewer fibres. The scar will be more resistant and less visible.

T-shaped. It will only be necessary when the baby is premature, breech or has some pathology.

Types of scars

In caesarean sections there are two types of scars:hypertrophic and keloid.

• Hypertrophic scars. These are raised scars with a reddish tone, which do not extend beyond the incision area.
• Keloid scars. These tend to increase in size and have a more aggressive healing process compared with hypertrophic scars. Although this type of mark can affect the whole population, it occurs more frequently in women with a darker skin tone.

Care for caesarean section scars

There are a series of care measures to treat a scar caused by a caesarean section:

• Do not make sudden movements.
• Avoid sun exposure on the scar.
• Wear comfortable, fresh and loose underwear.
• Wash the wound with water and neutral soap, especially during the first ten days. It is important that when drying it, we are careful and do so gently.
• Check that the wound does not become infected, inflamed or reopen. If this happens, you should contact your doctor.
• Have a proper rest habit.
• Maintain well-hydrated skin and body.
• Apply a healing cream or iodine after the stitches have been removed.

Tips to reduce caesarean section scars

Some of our tips for reducing the size of scars caused by caesarean sections:

• Use vitamin E-rich moisturising creams.
• Do not smoke and avoid polluted environments.
• A balanced diet and proper hydration to strengthen tissues.
• Apply oil or cream with rosehip using gentle massages, to reduce the scar and regenerate the skin.

Treatments for caesarean section scars

Trofolastin Elasticity Post-Partum Firming Cream 200 ml

This product significantly improves abdominal elasticity. Thanks to its ingredients, restores the tissue, improving the appearance and firmness of the skin.

Trofolastin Elasticity Adhesive Dressings Scar Reducer

These polyurethane adhesive dressings act physically, helping to prevent and reduce hypertrophic scars, whether recent or old.

Do you have another question related to scars caused by caesarean sections? From Farmaciasdirect, our team of pharmacists is on the other side of the screen to answer any question about how to treat them with the greatest professionalism