We all know how much it’s difficult to bring new life into the world. C-sections are common these days but it requires long recovery time. Do you know one of the worst side effects of C-section is sharp stabbing pain on right side? This pain can be alarming and may cause additional stress and concerns for new born mothers. In this blog we will explore the ground realities of sharp stabbing pain on right side after C-section. Let’s get into this.
How painful it could be after a C-Section?
The level of pain experienced on the right side after C-section can vary from woman to woman. Some women may not experience significant pain on right side, others have varying degrees of discomfort in specific area. It’s essential to communicate any pain or discomfort you experience including right side pain. They can elevate the specific symptoms, examine the incision site and determine the cause of the pain. Experts may recommend additional tests to figure out complications. The type of pain felt also varies just like a dull ache. It may feel like a stabbing, shooting or searing pain. Reasons of sharp stabbing pain on the right side after C-section in pregnancy. Here are the following reasons for sharp stabbing pain on the right side after C-section:
Incisional Hernia
Well, during healing process the tissues around the incision site undergo repair. The most common cause is incisional hernia which occurs when part of intestine protrudes through abdominal wall. It occurs when bulge forms between the abdominal wall and muscle after childbirth. The incisional hernia will occur on both side at same time.
Injury to the ilioinguinal nerve
The ilioinguinal nerve provides sensation to groin and lower abdomen. If you are experiencing superficial pain around the edges of the scar then ilioinguinal nerve may have effected. If this nerve was affected when C-section was carried out, you may experience sharp abdominal pain on the right side.
Muscle Strain
The wall muscles often strained during C-section especially pushing for vaginal delivery. It causes cramping in the abdomen area and sharp pain around the incision site. When you run or lift the weight, muscle strain caused by sudden increase in activity. Strains go away within few weeks.
Abdominal Adhesions
They are thick fibres of tissue that attach the tissues of one part of the abdomen area to other. For abdominal operation such as C-section, body can create adhesions near the scar from surgery. Abdominal adhesions can trigger sharp stabbing pain on right side after C-section.
Endometriosis
It’s a condition in which tissue normally lines the inside of the uterus but grows outside the uterus. The misplaced tissue affects ovaries, fallopian tubes and the lining of the pelvis. The main symptoms are pelvic pain can vary intensity and may worsen during menstruation. Other symptoms are painful periods, pain during bowel movements or urination, infertility and fatigue.
Infection or inflammation
Inflammation in the incision site can cause pain. It can lead to localized pain, tenderness, redness, swelling or discharge. Infection present on the right side trigger sharp stabbing pain in that area.
How to manage sharp stabbing pain on the right side after a C-Section?
Sharp pain right after a C-Section can make it difficult to complete daily chores. Here are the following ways to manage the sharp stabbing pain right after C-section:
Avoid heavy lifting
You should avoid heavy lifting immediately after operation because you may experience sharp stabbing pain on the right hand side following C-section surgery.
Get Active
Physical activity help to improve the range of motion while strengthening weakened muscles that may be affected by surgical trauma.
Wear Loose Clothing
Make sure you are wearing loose fitting dresses around stomach area so it doesn’t rub against incision. It can help you to avoid painful sensations that come with incision.
See Healthcare Professional
If you have sharp stabbing pain then it’s important to get in touch with healthcare professional. They will prescribe the medication to relieve your pain. Some medications used to treat postpartum pain include ibuprofen and acetaminophen.
Recommended physical therapy and exercises after C section
Consult your healthcare provider before starting exercise program to ensure either it is appropriate for you or not:
Deep Breathing and Gentle Abdominal Contraction Exercises
- Help to improve lung function and promote circulation.
- Involves activating the core muscles by drawing navel in towards the spine.
- Do exercises while lying down or sitting up right after the surgery.
Pelvic Floor Exercises
- Helps to strengthen the muscles to support pelvic organs.
- Contract the pelvic floor muscles to stop the flow of urine, hold for few seconds and then release.
- Start with few repetitions and increase the duration.
Upper Body Strengthening
- Perform gentle upper body exercises to maintain strength and prevent muscle imbalances.
- It includes shoulder rolls, gentle arm raises and lightweight exercises.
Posture and Body Mechanics
- Emphasis on maintaining good posture and body mechanics.
- Use proper body mechanics to engage core muscles, bending at knees instead of the waist.
Gentle Walking
- Helps to improve circulation for preventing blood clots and promote healing.
- Get started with short and slow walks around home or in a controlled environment.
Its essential to listen your body and not push yourself too hard. If you experience any pain or discomfort during or after exercises, consult with healthcare provider.
Final Thoughts
These are the causes and ways to manage the stabbing pain on the right hand side after following the steps above. Make sure you have figured out everything with doctor so he can advice on how to tackle with this.
