hematoma/firmness under my incision

Greetings,

I'm 42, and severely anemic. I had to have 2 units of blood on 8/21/06 because my hemoglobin was so low (6.6).

I had my uterus and cervix removed on 8/22/06 because of very large fibroids. 2 days later went home from hosp with no problems. I promise I've been taking it easy, however...

I've seen my primary care doc and an ob/gyn nurse since the operation. (Nurse suggested warm compresses) Both mention I probably have a hematoma under my suture line. It doesn't hurt. Mild soreness. No pain meds required. Bowels and bladder functioning normally.

My question...Has anyone else exp this? How was it resolved? My next gyn appt is 9/6/06.

You aren't the first woman to have to deal with firmness/hematoma under your incision. Sometimes it will resolve on it's own and sometimes not. I hope in your case it does resolve on it's own. My thought is also warm compresses like your nurse said. Certainly, if it doesn't get better, see your doctor.

I hope someone with an experience like your's will come along soon. In the meantime, many gentle s and I hope you feel better soon.

s, Deb

I also developed a hematoma right under the top end of my vertical scar. At about day 10, the dark red discharge began seeping out of the incision, about a teaspoon or so each day (scary!). I was afraid that my doc had removed the staples too early and that I was continuously bleeding. Would my blood slowly drain out of my body until I faded away? (I am a famous worry wort.) LOL.

A quick call to my doc reassured me as she remembered the hematoma and I confirmed the dark color of the discharge. She also said warm compresses.

It is now day 16, and the discharge is slowing, although I understand that it might continue for some time. The steri-strips came off yesterday in the shower as the doc predicted, and I am eying the slight gap where the seepage is closely, but not worrying too much because of doc's reassurances. I use my old panty-liners to absorb the seepage, and keep the incision very clean and dry.

My suggestion: a quick call to the doc or her/his nurse for reassurance and possibly an appointment. If you are worried, there's no reason not to have it looked at.

Best,

Linda

Well, I had my 2 week follow up appt today. The doc stated that it's probably calloused tissue under the suture line (the suture line looks great; no drainage; healing well. I was told to keep it clean and dry - no neosporin!!!).

I get fatigued easily. But I also have a history of anemia. Doc suggested I increase my iron intake (yuk...that means more...constipation!!). Also, I did a CBC just to check my blood levels.

Basically, all seems well. Not to worry, the doc said. I have another blood draw in 3 weeks. We keep a very close eye on the anemia.

My steri strips "came off" day 6 post op.

Good luck to you!!