Article: External Stitches and Infection

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Article: External Stitches and Infection
Is it possible to get an infection in the external stitches and area near my hysterectomy incision? I am experiencing burning, redness, and itching along with an odor.

Yes, it is possible to get an infection and you have described some of those symptoms. Some women explain that in the chubby fold in their incision area, they have developed a slight infection which has made them additionally uncomfortable as well as slowing down their healing process.

Some infections require an antibiotic. But there are some infections that are caused by yeast

Some of the symptoms of a yeast infection are:
•Redness and swelling in and on the area touching the stitches
•Itching
•Burning
•An odor

Because the external stitches tend to be in a moist area not exposed directly to air or light, it can be the perfect breeding ground for a yeast infection. Upon examination your doctor may prescribe an anti-fungal cream which is applied directly to the infected area twice a day for 10 days. This helps immediately and you will see the symptoms gradually disappear with each application.