Evidence Library › After the birth › Pain
Evidence Library · Pain
Numbness, tingling and the scar itself
Common, usually improving, sometimes permanent.
A band of numbness above the incision is expected. Some women have tingling, sharp shooting sensations, or an area that feels hypersensitive. Most improves over 6 to 12 months. Some does not.
Scars continue to change for a year or more. Raised, itchy or thickened scars are more common in some people. Scar massage after full healing is commonly recommended, though the evidence for it is limited.
Where this comes from
- Kainu JP, Halmesmäki E, Korttila KT, Sarvela PJ. Persistent pain after cesarean delivery and vaginal delivery: a prospective cohort study. Anesth Analg. 2016;123(6):1535-1545.
Covered in the class
8Module 8. After: pain relief, the record, and what stays with youPain relief after birth is not given equally, and the record does not always match what happened.Continue
Read this inside the full program, with the questions to take to your next visit and a record of what you have covered.
Obstetric Anesthesia Preparedness →This page is educational. It supports the conversation with your own clinicians. It is not consent to any treatment, and it cannot assess you.