What should you know about subcuticular sutures after a C-section?

The stitch runs through the deeper edges of the skin rather than across its surface. It may be dissolvable, or a clinician may plan removal depending on the material used. A dressing, skin adhesive, or small visible knots may also be present. The appearance of the scar changes gradually as healing continues.

Mild soreness, tightness, numbness, itching, or bruising near the incision can occur after birth. These sensations should gradually improve. The operation and recovery are separate from the choice of skin closure; a subcuticular suture does not remove the need for rest, pain relief advice, and follow-up.

Wash your hands before touching the area. Keep the wound clean and dry according to your maternity team’s instructions, avoid rubbing or picking at the stitch, and wear loose clothing. Support your abdomen when coughing or standing, and increase walking gently while avoiding lifting more than your clinician recommends.

Take prescribed medicines as directed and attend the planned wound review. Ask about [Caesarean Section](/treatments/pregnancy-and-birth-care/caesarean-section/) recovery and [Postnatal Physiotherapy](/treatments/pelvic-floor-and-rehabilitation/postnatal-physiotherapy/) if movement, abdominal comfort, or pelvic-floor symptoms are troubling you.

Contact your maternity team promptly if redness spreads, pain worsens, the wound opens, or fluid, pus, or a bad smell appears. Seek urgent help for fever with feeling very unwell, heavy bleeding, severe breathlessness, chest pain, or a painful swollen leg. Do not pull out a thread that is poking through the skin.

Ask what stitch material was used, whether it dissolves, how to bathe and dress the wound, when driving and lifting are safe for you, and who to contact outside clinic hours.