Haematoma
This is where a collection of blood occurs in the tissues around the cesarean section wound following surgery. It often appears as a lump and then gradually the skin becomes discolored like a bruise. This can take up to two weeks to resolve and you may find that old blood will ooze from gaps in the healing wound as it resolves.
However, if you see any signs of the wound opening or not healing, please speak with your doctor.
Scar tissue
This occurs because there has been a break in the body’s tissues as a result of the caesareans section. The body produces more of a protein called collagen, as part of the healing process. Collagen builds up where the tissue has been damaged, helping to heal and strengthen the wound. For a period of about three months or longer, new collagen continues to form, and blood supply increases, causing the scar to become raised, lumpy, and red. Some collagen then breaks down at the site of the wound, the blood supply reduces, and the scar gradually becomes smoother, softer, and paler. Although scars are permanent, they can fade over a period of up to two years. It is unlikely they will fade any more after this time.
Incisional hernia
Due to having had a cesarean section your abdominal wall muscles may be weaker and it is possible that some tissue is bulging through a weakened area in your pelvic area. If a hernia is present you may find that the area is particularly tender and painful on movement, coughing, and when lifting.
Endometriosis
This is rare but it can occur as a result of the endometrium lining shedding and instead of being released normally during menstruation, cells detach and leak back into the pelvic cavity and attach themselves to scars and other abdominal organs. As the endometrium grows each month and thickens lumps can form. Tenderness particularly at the time of menstruation may be noticed.
What to do
We would suggest that you seek an appointment with your GP to review this lump as soon as is convenient in order to determine the cause of the lump and whether any treatment is required.