Could my scar that runs from the top of the centre of my ribs right down to pubic bone split in pregnancy?

Question

Hi i really would like to know what happens to scars during pregnancy. I have a large scar about 30 cm long running down the centre of my tummy. I was told that women who have had c-sections and gone on to have another child that there scars can split. Is it true? Will i need to also have a c-section because of this. My scar was due to removing a large tumour not pregnancy.

Answer 1

Was the tumor actually removed from your uterus?

If the surgery that was performed was anything like a Cesarean (an incision into the uterus), then there is a 12% chance of rupture. "In certain circumstances, c-section requires a vertical incision through the abdominal and uterine walls, which is more prone to tearing during subsequent deliveries than the scar left by the current technique of a low transverse (horizontal) incision." This is the statistic for a pregnancy following a previous Cesarean performed with a vertical incision of the uterus. But this only applies to you if the tumor you had was in your uterus. The risk for rupture in a patient with a low transverse (horizontal) incision is 0.2 - 1.5%. http://www.womenshealthchannel.com/vbac/index.shtml

If you talk with your doctor (which you definitely should do) and find that you are at risk, then he most likely will not recommend that you try to have the baby vaginally. You can stand your ground and look for a doctor that will let you labor. That is your right. But most doctors will probably schedule a cesarean.

But you will still need to strengthen your uterine scar tissue so that you can carry your baby for 9 months without complications. My midwife suggests taking Evening Primrose Oil Capsules daily beginning at your 36th week of pregnancy. This is what I did with my second pregnancy and what I will do with this one. Red Raspberry Tea daily will help to strengthen and tone the uterus. After your 12TH WEEK, drink 1 cup daily during the 1st trimester, 2 cups daily during the 2nd trimester, and 3 cups daily during the 3rd trimester.

Answer 2

Scars that are healed do not split open. If you have had the scar for more than 2 years the skin is just as pliant as your normal skin. Your scar will stretch, but if you don't gain alot of weight it should be ok. Also, a scar is not reason to have a c-section. If your baby is healthy and you are healthy, there is no reason not to have the baby vaginally. I know people on here say that for medical advice always seek a doctor's opinion, but something like this is not life threatening, however, if you feel like you should, call a Ob's office. They can tell you for sure. Good luck.

Answer 3

I have the same scar and actually got it the same way you did and I have had 4 children the biggest weighing 9lb 5oz and have not had the slightest problem with it other than a little itching as I got real big,that cocoa butter took care of.

Answer 4

i have a scar on my tummy to from surgery and always wondered that. .my best friends sister-in-laws scar actually did start splitting but eventually stopped also my mother had 2 c-sections and her scars never opened

Answer 5

If the scar is fully healed it is highly unlikely that it will split or reopen. I wouldn't be surprised if it was a little tender as you grew, but you don't grow that fast during pregnancy for it to reopen.

Answer 6

The scar that they are talking about is the scar in the uterus itself, not in the skin. You should be fine.

Answer 7

I have heard that if you have had a c-section once before then try to have the next pregnancy vaginally that your incision could come open.
That is something though you will have to talk to your doctor about cause i am sure he isn't going to let that happen to you because of lawsuits.

Answer 8

Ive never heard of this, but ask your midwife! or doctor if you are not pregnant yet. He will be able to assure you!

Answer 9

dont take any risk , dont listen to any Answer. involve a professional medical advice.