Can a C-Section Incision Become Infected?

A Cesarean section, or C-section, is a method for delivery of an unborn child in which a doctor creates an incision along the abdominal wall to gain access to the child. This process carries many risks with it, and like all types of surgery, there is the risk of a C-section incision becoming infected.

If you suffered any type of complications after a c-section, we encourage you to reach out to our medical malpractice attorney to learn more about your legal rights. At Paulson Coletti Trial Attorneys PC, our Portland medical malpractice attorneys serve clients in both Washington and Oregon and help them receive fair compensation for losses caused by others.

Post C-Section Infections

It is not uncommon for an incision like this to become infected, and when it does, the health complications it creates can be numerous. Typically, these infections are due to a bacterial infection that occurs at the surgical incision site. Some of the most common symptoms of these infections include:

• Severe abdominal pain and discomfort
• Pus discharge from the incision itself
• Severe redness at the site of the incision
• Swelling in the tissues at or around the incision sight
• Pain that does not go away or is getting worse
• Fever of 100.4 F or higher
• Pain when urinating
• Discharge that is foul-smelling
• Pain and swelling in the legs
• Bleeding with clotting

Incisions carry a high risk of infection if they are not properly cared for at the time they are created or in situations where they are disturbed during the healing process. If you have such an infection, immediate treatment is often necessary and beneficial to protect your overall health and to minimize the onset of further complications. This may include the use of antibiotics. There are some situations where your doctor may need to open up the incision and flush out the area to remove the buildup of bacteria present. This can take time to heal, too.

Can Incision Infections Be Prevented?

There are many situations where incisions are preventable. For example, not picking up a child that is heavy with an incision is a critical first step. It may also be possible to reduce the risk of an incision infection with proper wound care methods, cleaning the wound properly, and changing dressings on the wound as often as recommended.

Are Infections From C-Sections Medical Malpractice?

It is impossible to know if your incision from a c-section is related to a mistake made by a doctor, nurse, or hospital until our attorneys discuss your case with you. There are instances in which you may be able to align your losses with some type of medical malpractice. The details of your situation will make a difference here.

Schedule a Free Consultation with Us to Discuss Your Needs

At Paulson Coletti Trial Attorneys PC, we work closely with our clients to fully understand what occurred and why. Our medical malpractice attorneys in Oregon and Washington are happy to answer your questions and dig into your case to determine what occurred. Contact us now to learn how we can help you at a free consultation.