Post-C-Section Symptoms You Should Never Ignore
Post-C-Section Symptoms You Should Never Ignore
Recovering from a cesarean section (C-section) is a process. While discomfort and some mild symptoms are expected, there are certain warning signs you should never ignore. In this blog we will talk about what's normal and what's not. Your recovery matters, and early detection of complications can make all the difference. If you notice any of the following symptoms, contact your doctor or healthcare provider promptly.
What’s Normal After a C-Section
A C-section is major abdominal surgery. After delivery, it’s common to experience:
Mild to moderate abdominal pain or cramping, especially as your uterus contracts back to size
Some vaginal bleeding (lochia) for several weeks, which gradually changes from red to pinkish to whitish discharge
Tenderness, swelling, or bruising at the incision site
Fatigue, minor nausea, or ‘baby blues’ as your body recovers
Temporary constipation or gas, due partly to pain meds and uterine changes
These are expected parts of healing, but they should improve gradually. If symptoms worsen or new ones develop, it’s important to seek medical care.
Symptoms You Should Never Ignore
Severe or Increasing Abdominal Pain
If your pain intensifies instead of improving, or if it feels sharp, stabbing, or localized (especially around the incision), it may signal infection, internal bleeding, or other issues. The NHS advises patients to contact medical care if they experience “severe pain” post-C-section.Fever or Chills
A fever higher than 100.4 °F (38 °C), especially within 10 days of surgery, may indicate wound infection, endometritis (infection of the uterine lining), or sepsis. Cesarean delivery is a risk factor for postpartum infections.Foul-Smelling or Pus-Like Drainage from the Scar
Redness, swelling, warmth, or discharge that is yellowish, green, or foul-smelling from your incision may point to surgical wound infection.
Excessive Bleeding or Large Blood Clots
Some bleeding is expected, but if you soak more than one pad per hour, pass large clots (bigger than an egg or plum), or bleeding worsens instead of tapering, this may signal hemorrhage or retained tissue.Sudden Shortness of Breath or Chest Pain
These could be red flags for a pulmonary embolism (blood clot in the lung) or deep vein thrombosis (DVT) that has traveled. Since surgery elevates clot risk, especially post-C-section, it’s vital not to ignore these symptoms. Numbness or Tingling in Legs or Groin.After a C-section, sensations of numbness in legs, groin, or around the incision could suggest nerve injury, compression, or more serious neurologic involvement. MyHealth Alberta’s post-care guidance explicitly warns to watch for tingling, weakness, or numbness.
Worsening Urinary or Bowel Function
If you suddenly have difficulty urinating, a burning sensation, inability to pass stool, or persistent constipation, it may indicate urinary tract infection, nerve damage, or bowel injury. In some cases, further evaluation may be needed.
Why These Symptoms Matter
A C-section is a controlled surgical procedure, but complications can arise, such as:
Infection: Wound infections or uterine infections like endometritis are among the most common
Hemorrhage and retained products: Persistent bleeding may come from blood vessels or retained placental fragments
Blood clots: Postpartum and post-surgery states increase clot risks (DVT, pulmonary embolism)
Scar complications: In rare cases, uterine scar defects (niches), or scar endometriosis may form later, causing chronic pain
Extensions of infection: If infection spreads, complications like septic pelvic thrombophlebitis or abscesses may arise
Delaying care for concerning signs can lead to serious outcomes, including hospitalization, surgery, or systemic infection (sepsis).
How to Support Your Recovery
Monitor Carefully
Keep a daily log of your symptoms such as: pain severity, bleeding, fever, drainage, swelling. To spot trends or worsening signs.
Follow Wound Care Guidelines
Clean the incision gently with mild soap and water. Avoid soaking until cleared by your doctor. Keep the area dry and covered if recommended.
Gradual Movement
Walking helps circulation and prevents clots. Avoid heavy lifting or strenuous activity until cleared by your physician. NHS guidance recommends slowly returning to normal activities.
Nutrition & Hydration
Eat a protein-rich, fiber-forward diet and drink plenty of fluids to support healing and reduce constipation.
Pain Control
Use prescribed pain relief, keeping in mind which medications are safe during breastfeeding.
Follow-Up Visits
Attend your postpartum check (typically 4–6 weeks). Use that opportunity to discuss any unusual symptoms or ongoing discomfort.
Supporting Physical Health After a C-Section
Recovery isn’t just about treating symptoms but it’s also about building strength and supporting your body as it heals. Pelvic floor physiotherapy can be beneficial for women after C-sections, even though the baby did not pass through the vaginal canal. The pelvic floor muscles still undergo strain during pregnancy, and targeted exercises can improve stability, core strength, and long-term bladder and bowel function. Gentle stretching and mobility work, once cleared by your physician, can reduce stiffness and help restore movement in the hips, lower back, and abdomen. Postpartum abdominal binders or wraps, when recommended, may also help reduce discomfort, provide support for the incision, and promote better posture.
Mental and emotional health are equally important. Fatigue, hormonal changes, and the stress of adjusting to life with a newborn can be overwhelming. Talking with a doctor or support group, practicing mindfulness, and allowing yourself rest are all vital to physical recovery as well.
When to Contact a Doctor in Calgary
If you experience any of the warning symptoms above, contact your health care provider immediately. Timely intervention often leads to simpler treatment and better outcomes.
You Deserve a Safe Recovery
Your body has just undergone a major surgical event. Allow yourself grace, support, and attentiveness. Recovery is a process not an instant fix.
Pelvic floor physiotherapy at Maud Medical Clinic in Calgary offers comprehensive care from physicians and physiotherapists who understand the unique challenges of pregnancy and postpartum recovery. Our clinic supports patients with conditions such as urinary incontinence, pelvic pain, pelvic organ prolapse, and diastasis recti.
During or after your pregnancy, your Maud doctor and pelvic floor physiotherapist will provide guidance on safe exercises, breathing techniques, and body mechanics to help protect your pelvic floor and reduce discomfort. As birth approaches, physiotherapy can also prepare your body with relaxation and positioning strategies. After a cesarean section or vaginal delivery, our Calgary maud medical team helps restore function and confidence through targeted rehabilitation, scar care, and pelvic floor retraining. With an inclusive, patient-centered approach, Maud Medical empowers you to strengthen your core, recover safely, and improve your overall health.
Resources:
MyHealth Alberta — “C-Section: What to Expect at Home
Verywell Health — “C-Section Scar Complications
PMC — Duran S, et al. “Problems Experienced by the Mothers in Post-Cesarean
Orlando Health — “How To Heal from a C-Section
The Ottawa Hospital C section Guide
Maud Medical Educational Blog
