Why is my C-section Incision Red?

Many women who have a C-section notice a little bit of redness around their C-section incision, especially if the skin was closed with staples. Often the points where the staples enter the skin cause a small reaction and the skin may be temporarily red. However, if you notice that this redness on the C-section incision (called erythema in medical terms) is spreading or is accompanied by hardness, drainage of fluid or pus from the incision, or incisional separation, then you definitely need to be checked out to make sure you do not have a wound infection. Do not scrub at it or put on any creams or ointments in the meantime! This can often make matters worse, so it is best to talk with your doctor or midwife first.

Reviewed by Dr. Jen Lincoln, November 2018

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