Is a 1.8mm cesarean section scar considered thin?

Oct 31, 2024 Source: Cainiu Health

Dr. Zhang Lu

Introduction

In late pregnancy, a uterine scar with a myometrial thickness of 3 mm or more is relatively safe. When the scar thickness is 1.8 mm, it indicates a relatively thin uterine wall. As intrauterine pressure progressively increases during pregnancy, especially near delivery, there is an associated risk. A thinner scar may increase the risk of uterine rupture.

In general, cesarean section refers to a surgical delivery through an incision in the abdominal wall and uterus. A uterine scar thickness of 1.8 mm is considered thin. If you experience any physical discomfort, seek medical attention promptly. The detailed explanation is as follows:

During late pregnancy, a uterine scar muscle layer thickness of 3 mm or more is relatively safe. When the scar measures only 1.8 mm, it indicates a relatively thin uterine wall. As intrauterine pressure progressively increases during pregnancy—especially near delivery—this poses certain risks. A thinner scar may increase the risk of uterine rupture, a serious obstetric complication that can endanger both mother and baby, potentially leading to severe hemorrhage, fetal distress, or even death. If a prenatal examination reveals a uterine scar thickness of 1.8 mm, doctors typically monitor the pregnant woman closely, possibly increasing the frequency of prenatal visits and using ultrasound and other methods to continuously assess changes in the scar and fetal well-being. Additionally, the physician will evaluate the optimal mode and timing of delivery based on the individual's specific condition. The woman may be advised to be hospitalized earlier for labor preparation, enabling prompt intervention should complications arise.

Women with a history of cesarean delivery who are planning another pregnancy should undergo pre-pregnancy evaluation, adhere strictly to prenatal check-ups during pregnancy, ensure adequate rest, avoid abdominal pressure, and manage weight gain appropriately. These measures can help prevent the occurrence of such complications.

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What is a cesarean section?

In general, cesarean section refers to a type of surgery used to deliver a baby through an incision in the mother's abdomen. A cesarean delivery is a method of childbirth in which a physician surgically cuts through the abdominal wall and uterus to deliver the baby when the mother is unable to deliver vaginally. The procedure is typically performed in an operating room using either regional or general anesthesia.

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What is the minimum thickness of a scarred uterus that poses a risk?

Under normal circumstances, a scarred uterus is generally considered to be at a higher risk when the thinnest part is less than 3 mm. A scarred uterus refers to the formation of scar tissue beneath the muscular layer of the uterus following a cesarean section, which can significantly reduce the elasticity of the uterine muscle layer. The normal thickness of a scarred uterus is generally 3 mm or more. When the thinnest part of the scarred uterus is less than 3 mm, it is usually considered to be relatively dangerous.