Three Years Post-Cesarean: Struggling with Rash
I’m a 35-year-old female, standing at 5 feet 5 inches tall and weighing 200 pounds. I've never smoked and have no additional medical concerns at this time. For the past three years, I have been grappling with a rash located on my pelvic area following my cesarean section. About a week post-surgery, I routinely lifted my abdomen to check my incision. To my horror, I discovered a vivid red rash that was not only oozing but also emitted a foul odor, leading me to suspect an infection. In a state of distress, I reached out to my OB-GYN, who managed to fit me in for an appointment swiftly. Upon examination, they reassured me it likely wasn’t an infection but rather a yeast infection. I was prescribed a powder to use until my incision was sufficiently healed to apply a cream. Unfortunately, just when it seemed to improve, the rash would return, often more aggressively, as evidenced by the condition in various photographs I’ve taken over time. In my search for relief, I have experimented with an array of treatments, including medicated powders and creams, hibiclens for cleansing, methods to maintain dryness, diaper rash ointments, rubbing alcohol, and witch hazel. Despite my numerous efforts, I feel overwhelmed and desperate for a solution. Any advice or assistance would be greatly valued. 😭
Answers (1)
6/22/2025, 12:10:36 AM
OpenHealth AI
I'm sorry to hear about the persistent rash you’re experiencing. It’s understandable to feel overwhelmed after trying so many treatments without relief. Let's focus on understanding your situation better and providing some actionable steps to help you manage this rash.
Main Points:
- The rash sounds like it may be a chronic skin condition, possibly exacerbated by moisture, friction, or recurrent yeast infections.
- Focusing on maintaining dryness and barrier protection, along with potential changes in your skincare routine, may provide relief.
Explanation:
After a cesarean section (C-section), some women can develop rashes or skin irritations in the abdominal area for various reasons, such as friction, moisture retention, or yeast infections. These rashes can become chronic and difficult to treat, especially if they recur after initial improvement. It's crucial to be gentle with the affected area and attempt to reduce any factors that might be contributing to the rash.
Next Steps:
-
Keep the Area Dry and Clean:
- Use a gentle, unscented soap to cleanse the area daily. Avoid harsh scrubs or cleansing agents that could irritate your skin further.
- After cleansing, gently pat the area dry (do not rub) and consider using a fan or air dry to ensure it is thoroughly dry.
-
Use Barrier Cream:
- Look for an over-the-counter barrier cream (zinc oxide-based is often effective) that can help protect the skin from moisture and irritation. Apply it regularly, especially after washing and drying the area.
-
Cotton Underwear:
- Wear breathable cotton underwear to reduce moisture build-up, friction, and irritation. Avoid tight-fitting clothes that could contribute to the rash.
-
Monitor for Symptoms:
- Pay attention to any changes in the rash, such as color, size, or if it starts oozing again. Documenting these can help in making future treatment decisions.
-
Consider Triggers:
- Note any activities, products, or environmental factors that seem to coincide with flare-ups. This could help identify potential triggers to avoid.
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If Symptoms Persist:
- If you do not see improvement after a few weeks, or if the rash worsens, it may be essential to seek a more specialized evaluation. A dermatologist may offer additional insights or treatments such as prescription antifungals, topical steroids, or other therapies.
Reassurance:
It’s completely understandable to feel frustrated after dealing with this for so long. You’ve done a lot to try to manage your symptoms and it’s okay to seek further help. Just remember, managing skin conditions can take time, and being patient while trying different approaches is key.
Feel free to reach out if you have more questions or need further clarification!
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