Infection After Cesarean Section: A Summary
Despite the current sterile techniques used during surgery, infections after
cesarean section are possible. Infections have been reported in about 1 to 2 out of 20 cesarean sections. The most common sites are inside the uterus, urinary tract, in the incision, and in the area around the uterus in the abdomen.
The treatment of the infection will vary, depending on the location of the infection and how serious it is. Infections can range from minor ones that only need to be treated with antibiotics to major infections requiring additional surgery. Internal infections are rarer; however, they are also more serious. In most cases, they require hospitalization and IV antibiotics. In very rare cases, additional surgery may be needed, and the infection may be life threatening.
If an infection does develop, your doctor will discuss treatment options and expected outcomes with you.
