A c-section hernia - is a type of incisional hernia that occurs at the site of a cesarean delivery. Keep reading to learn more about this condition. (1)

What is a C-Section Hernia?

A C-section hernia is a bulge that appears at the site of the cesarean incision, which may occur months or years after delivery. (2)

This happens because the abdominal muscles weaken post-surgery and do not heal properly, allowing tissues or intestines to push through the weakened area. (3)

What Causes a C-Section Hernia?

As mentioned, the incision site can leave the abdominal muscles weakened, creating an easy path for underlying tissues or organs to protrude. (4)

Several factors can further increase the risk of hernia following a C-section, including: (4)

• Multiple cesarean deliveries or other abdominal surgical operations.
• Are very overweight.
• Large cesarean incision.
• Improper stitching of the wound.
• Pre-existing conditions or medications that delay healing, such as diabetes, chemotherapy, or long-term use of corticosteroids.
• Smoking.
• Heavy lifting or strenuous activity shortly after the surgery.
• Severe and uncontrollable cough post-surgery.
• Chronic constipation.
• Pregnancy shortly after a previous C-section.

What Does a C-Section Hernia Look Like?

Hernias usually show up as a bulge under the skin, near the cesarean scar, and it becomes more noticeable in the following situations: (3)

• Crying or laughing.
• Coughing or sneezing. 
• Lifting heavy weights.
• Having a bowel movement or urinating.
• Bending over.
• Doing physical exercises.

Pain— Many patients feel pressure or heaviness at the hernia site, with little or no pain, or mild pain that tends to worsen towards the end of the day. On the other hand, severe pain is often a sign of complications. (3)

If the pain due to hernia is severe and accompanied by redness, nausea, or vomiting, this might be a serious condition called a strangulated hernia. This happens when part of the intestines gets trapped in the hernia and cuts off blood flow to the area, which may lead to tissue death, requiring an emergency surgery. (3)

If you notice swelling or any other concerning symptoms at the site of the cesarean scar, contact the General Surgery Department in Dr. Soliman Fakeeh Hospital immediately for an evaluation and appropriate treatment.

How is a C-Section Hernia Treated?

Hernias do not resolve on their own and generally worsen over time. Surgery is usually required, either as an elective procedure in mild cases or urgently in the case of a strangulated hernia. Surgical repair involves repositioning the hernia, closing the tissues, and reinforcing the abdominal muscles with mesh to prevent recurrence. (5)

Surgery can be done in 2 ways: (5)

• Open Surgery: The traditional method, involving a larger incision over the hernia, is typically used for more complicated cases.
• Laparoscopic Surgery: A less invasive option with faster recovery. Instead of making a large surgical incision, the surgery is performed through small incisions about 1 cm in length near the site of the hernia.

Can a C-Section Hernia Be Treated Without Surgery?

While wearing special abdominal binders or belts can provide temporary relief, surgery is the only definitive treatment for a hernia. (5)

Can C-Section Hernia Recur?

Yes, even after surgery, there is a 10-20% chance of recurrence, but following post-operative instructions carefully can help reduce this risk. (5)

References

1. NIH NLM - Incisional Hernia
2. WebMD - What Is a Postpartum Hernia?
3. University Surgeons Associates - Incisional Hernia Repair
4. IMR Press - Risk Factors for Pfannenstiel Incisional Hernia Following Cesarean Delivery and Outcomes after Laparoscopic and Open Surgical Repair
5. Cleveland Clinic - Ventral Hernia