Characteristics of poor uterine recovery after caesarean section

Poor uterine recovery after caesarean section may lead to abnormal lochia, lower abdominal pain, fever, poor wound healing, abnormal menstruation and other symptoms. Poor uterine involution after caesarean section may be related to factors such as infection, retained placenta, uterine atony, etc. It needs to be comprehensively judged based on specific symptoms and examination results.

1. Abnormal lochia

Normal lochia gradually decreases and disappears 3-4 weeks after delivery. If the amount of lochia suddenly increases, is bright red in color, or is accompanied by a foul odor, it may indicate incomplete uterine involution or uterine cavity infection. Some mothers may continue to discharge dark red bloody lochia for more than 6 weeks, and they need to be alert to residual placental and fetal membranes. Motherwort granules, Maternity Mixture, etc. can be used as directed by the doctor to promote uterine contraction. If necessary, ultrasound examination is required to confirm the diagnosis.

2. Lower abdominal pain

Postpartum persistent lower abdominal pain or paroxysmal colic, especially when the uterine fundus is pressed, is often related to poor uterine contraction, pelvic adhesions, or abnormal incision healing. The pain may be accompanied by soreness and swelling in the lumbosacral region, which worsens after activity. Strenuous exercise needs to be avoided, and low-frequency pulse electrical stimulation can be used to promote uterine involution. In severe cases, pelvic inflammatory disease needs to be ruled out.

3. Fever

Postoperative body temperature exceeding 38°C or repeated low-grade fever may indicate endometritis, incision infection or urinary tract infection. Infectious fever is often accompanied by chills, increased heart rate, and elevated white blood cells in routine blood tests. It is necessary to use cefixime dispersible tablets, metronidazole tablets and other antibiotics as directed by the doctor, and at the same time strengthen perineal care and wound disinfection.

4. Poor wound healing

Drainage, redness, swelling, cracking, or induration from the caesarean section incision may be caused by fat liquefaction, suture rejection, or bacterial infection. Some women may experience numbness or itching in the skin around the incision. The wound needs to be kept dry and clean, and recombinant human epidermal growth factor gel can be used externally. In severe cases, surgical debridement is required.

5. Abnormal menstruation

Delay in resumption of menstruation for more than 3 months after delivery, or significant increase in menstrual volume and prolongation of menstrual period for more than 10 days may be related to endometritis, uterine adhesions or delayed recovery of ovarian function. Abnormal bleeding during lactation should be ruled out for pregnancy-related diseases, and hysteroscopy should be performed if necessary. It can be used with Shaofu Zhuyu Granules to regulate the menstrual cycle.

After caesarean section, the vulva should be kept clean and the perineum should be washed with warm water every day.； Avoid heavy lifting and strenuous exercise for 6 weeks ； Breastfeeding helps promote uterine contractions ； Pay attention to supplementing the diet with high-quality protein such as fish and eggs, and eating animal liver in moderation to help hematopoiesis ； Regular ultrasound examinations are performed to understand the involution of the uterus. If fever, heavy bleeding or severe abdominal pain occurs, seek medical attention immediately.