How long for incision to heal?

[Shana]

I am wondering what the general time frame is for the c-sec incision to heal? By this I mean, when could you start to rub cream/oils into it to help lessen the scar?
I know it needs to be completely closed obviously so as not to introduce bacteria, but how long does that take?

[phineas]

It should definitely be closed by 6 weeks, unless you are unfortunate enough to burst your stictches open as I did :barf:

Skin actually heals quite quickly, I'd expect it to of course be still quite sore, but actually healed over (externally) at about 2-3 weeks

[sebmum]

I started rubbing pure Vitamin E oil on my scar as soon as the steri-strips started to fall off. Because I'm such a scaredy-cat, I waited until the strips fell off by themselves rather than pulling them off...ouch!

As far as I'm aware, by the time you leave the hospital (usually after about 6 days), it's OK to start rubbing whatever you like onto the scar as it's already healed up.

[sebmum]

I forgot to mention that the strips fell off after about 2 weeks I think. Gosh, seems like so long ago now!

[Shana]

Ah thanks - exactly the info I was looking for.
I know it takes about 6wks for it to really heal, but yes, I wanted to know when it was ok to start putting creams on it etc.

[cheezelz]

My ob said to keep it covered till the 6 week check up. I then used mederma gel on it which is fantastic stuff. I had internal stitches so it turned out looking great anyways.