Is this something I can leave for 2 weeks or do I need to see the doctor now?!

[thumb3lina]

I had a c-section (emergency) 5 1/2 months ago. It never did stop hurting from the point I was at about 2 weeks after surgery and its still quite red with some hard swelling above the scar, all the way along it.

Anyway my point is, over the last few days, i've noticed the end of the scar is leaking some kind of colourless fluid. The only reason I could tell because it is putting a mark on my knickers, the scar looks dry otherwise (just sore). Its still very numb but if i touch the scar there it feels stingy. The main pain is coming from underneath though, like period cramps.

I have an appointment in 2 weeks but should I go before then? DH thinks my scar is opening back up and also has anyone else experienced this?

ooh, i think you should at least ring the doctors

do you have a temperature?

My temperature is 36.7C so normal (I think)

Sounds like there may be a slight infection. I had similar.
I'd make a new appointment

I've had 2 sections and never experienced anything like that. I think I'd see a Dr sooner than 2 weeks.

Do you think I can leave it 1 week?

ProfYaffle How long did it take before you were not in pain anymore?

I just cleaned the scar with the solution I was given when it was done, which has made it more painful.

I can't remember exactly (last one was 9 years ago now!) but I was out and about as normal more or less straight away. The pain definitely didn't increase. Maybe ring 111 for some advice?

That does sound like it needs seeing to ASAP. It's possible it hasn't healed underneath or you have some retained stitches. If its becoming more painful then it needs checking over.

Infections can take hold quickly and the last thing you want is to have more tissue cut out or a bigger scar.
Definitely seek advice if you develop a high temperature or feel feverish as you will need a course of anti biotics.
NHS direct might be able to give advice if you're worried.

Uneeds you are unwell overnight (fever /pus/ more pain/scar opening up more) it will wait until tomorrow, but you need to be seen tomorrow. If there are no appointments tell the receptionist you are concerned re a wound infection. They should arrange appointment /discussion with triage staff based on that.

I can't phone 111 as we are expats living abroad currently.

Can anyone guess what might happen when I go in? Is it likely just to see the scar, give me some tablets?! I'll be seeing the doctor who did my c-section at the hospital but after a pretty traumatic birth I'm scared of someone even touching the scar.

I expect they would give you some antibiotic tablets or possibly some cream and instructions to come back if it's not better after a week or so(?) Sorry I'm not an expert.

It sounds odd but my sister swore by putting a sanitary towel over her sore CS scar to stop it rubbing on clothes.

Hope it's better soon.

I had this. It's just body fluid if it's clear orangey liquid. If it's cloudy or green it's infected, or if it smells.
I stood in the bath and squeezed it out and dressed it. I showed it to the GP and she said that it has to come out and prescribed antibiotics just to be on the safe side.
Fwiw I think you need to get it checked sooner than later just in case

purpleporpoise Was yours painful/stingy too? and how long after your cs did your wound start leaking? I think its just clear liquid

So long after an op it should have healed. Please see someone.

My first one was quite red and raised up (keloid scarring I think) but not painful and certainly no issues at 5 months. I wouldn't leave it a week personally.

I'll have to ring in the morning. I'm actually more worried about the state the scar is on the inside as it feels like more pain is coming from inside my uterus than on the scar its self.

Just googled Keloid scarring and I think mine must be that. Mine looks awful

I had this (although it was about two weeks post c-section). It was an infection. They drained the fluid in hospital and prescribed antibiotics. The side of the scar which had 'leaked' took a lot longer to heal but ultimately was fine (seven years ago now!). I would try and see a doctor tomorrow if possible.

MelanieWiggles How did they drain it? Sounds painful

I've had a similar experience, OP and you do need to see a doctor who will take a swab to check for infection. I've had several laparoptomies and a c-section and my scar opened up after 4 weeks with lots of pus and blood. As much as you're just passing clear liquid, it shouldn't be like that after 5 months and any pain is an indication of possible infection so best to see someone as soon as you can in case it gets worse. Hope you're ok

Can you ask on an expat forum of the country you are in?

I suggest you need to be seen by a doctor as soon as possible.

The nurse squeezed it until all the fluid was gone. She was actually quite taken aback at how much fluid there was - DH said watching her do that was worse than watching the birth itself I don't remember it hurting much though. Anyway it was all fine in the end !

Iknownuffink Well I could, but I use Mumsnet and I don't think cesarean section wounds heal differently depending on the country your currently living in, so may as well ask here