Keloid, itching and a strange sensation after C-section
Dear Dr Mitchell,
I had a baby two years ago via C-section, and I am planning a second pregnancy. The problem is that my current scar is itchy, has formed a keloid, and my stomach has not gone down, no matter how much I diet and exercise. I also can’t sleep on my stomach because I get this weird sensation like my stomach is opening up. What could all of this mean?
The formation of a keloid scar after a Caesarean section is a fairly common problem. The more you scratch at the scar and cause further irritation, the bigger the keloid will grow. You should try to leave it alone because scratching at the area will only make things worse.
There are creams available that can help to reduce the size of the keloid scar. Some dermatologists have preparations that they create which work really well in reducing the itching and causing the scar to shrink significantly. The use of steroid injections into the scar can also reduce the itching and shrink the scar. This can be done as an in-office procedure with a really good outcome.
The fact that you are not able to sleep on your abdomen is of concern. You should go to your gynaecologist and have a detailed physical examination and an abdominal and pelvic ultrasound done. This is important to rule out any abnormal growth in the uterus or ovaries. It is extremely important for you to have this done before contemplating and planning another pregnancy.
It is important to determine if you have a weakness in the muscles of the abdomen or a hernia that is causing the problem. This can be determined on abdominal examination and confirmed on an ultrasound.
If you have to do a repeat Caesarean section with your next pregnancy, the old scar will be removed and a new one created. This will remove the keloid. The injection of steroid into the incision immediately after the skin is sutured should be done to reduce the risk of a keloid scar. The use of creams to prevent keloid growth can also be done to further reduce the risk of a recurrence.
Consult your gynaecologist who will advise you further and refer you to a dermatologist. We have some really excellent dermatologists in Jamaica who have perfected the treatment of keloid scars, so you will be well taken care of.
Best regards.
Dr Sharmaine Mitchell is an obstetrician and gynaecologist. Send questions via e-mail to allwoman@jamaicaobserver.com; write to All Woman, 40-42 1/2 Beechwood Avenue, Kingston 5 or fax to 876-968-2025. All responses are published. Dr Mitchell cannot provide personal responses.
DISCLAIMER:
The contents of this article are for informational purposes only, and must not be relied upon as an alternative to medical advice or treatment from your own doctor.
