Childbirth often involves stitches to aid healing during postpartum recovery. New parents frequently have concerns about their healing process, including how to care for stitches and identify potential issues. This article provides information on recognizing the signs that a stitch may have come undone.
Types and Purpose of Postpartum Stitches
Stitches are frequently necessary after childbirth due to perineal tears, episiotomies, or C-section incisions. Perineal tears occur in the tissue between the vagina and anus. An episiotomy is a surgical cut made in this area to enlarge the vaginal opening, sometimes performed to prevent more severe tearing.
For vaginal births, dissolvable stitches are typically used to repair tears or episiotomies. These stitches break down naturally within 1 to 6 weeks. In C-sections, dissolvable stitches close the uterus and deeper tissues. The skin incision may be closed with dissolvable stitches, non-dissolvable stitches, or surgical glue or staples.
The purpose of stitches is to bring torn or incised tissues together for healing and reducing infection risk. They provide structural support as the body repairs itself, restoring affected areas. This closure supports the body’s recovery after childbirth.
Identifying Signs of a Popped Stitch
Recognizing the signs of a popped stitch involves observing both sensory and visual changes around the wound. A sudden increase in pain or discomfort, especially a sharp or new stinging sensation, can indicate that stitches have come undone. Some individuals describe a feeling of something “giving way” or a new tearing sensation in the affected area. This heightened pain often feels different from the general soreness of normal healing.
Visual and physical changes are also important indicators. New or increased bleeding from the wound site, beyond typical postpartum bleeding, could suggest a stitch has separated. A visible gaping of the wound, where the edges no longer appear to be held together, or a sensation of looseness or a “flap” of tissue, warrants attention. You might also see a loose stitch or a piece of string that has come away.
For perineal stitches, you might notice changes when sitting, walking, or during urination or bowel movements. With C-section incisions, a popped stitch could manifest as a separation along the incision line, increased redness, or swelling. Any sudden or significant wound opening, or an increase in pain and discharge, should be noted.
When to Contact Your Healthcare Provider
It is always advisable to contact a healthcare provider if there is any suspicion of a popped stitch or other healing concerns. Seek immediate medical attention if you experience a sudden, severe increase in pain around the stitched area, especially if accompanied by significant bleeding that soaks through pads quickly. A foul odor from the wound or discharge that looks like pus are also concerning signs.
Other symptoms that warrant contacting your provider include fever or chills. New or worsening difficulty with urination or bowel movements, or leakage of urine or stool, should also be reported. Any noticeable opening or widening of the wound, or if the wound feels hot to the touch or becomes increasingly red and swollen. If something feels wrong or different from expected healing, reach out to a medical professional for proper care.
Promoting Stitch Healing and Recovery
Caring for stitches properly after birth is important for healthy healing and preventing complications. Good hygiene is key; gently wash the area with plain warm water during showers or baths, then pat it dry thoroughly. Changing sanitary pads frequently, at least every 2 to 4 hours, also helps keep the area clean and reduces infection risk.
Pain management can involve over-the-counter pain relievers, applying ice packs, or taking sitz baths for perineal discomfort. Rest is important for recovery, so avoid strenuous activities like heavy lifting or intense exercise until cleared by a healthcare provider. Adequate nutrition and hydration support healing. As the wound heals, pain should gradually decrease, and dissolvable stitches break down on their own.