What does it mean if there is a lump in a cesarean section scar?
Nov 29, 2025
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Liu Wenmin
Introduction
In general, a lump in a cesarean section scar may be caused by normal scar hypertrophy, local foreign body irritation, keloid formation, sebaceous cyst, or endometriosis. If discomfort symptoms occur, it is recommended to seek timely medical evaluation and treatment at a正规 hospital. In daily life, keep the scar clean and avoid scratching or friction; follow standardized scar care procedures, especially during the early postoperative period.
In general, a lump at a cesarean section scar may be caused by normal scar hypertrophy, local foreign body irritation, keloid formation, sebaceous cyst, or endometriosis. If discomfort occurs, it is recommended to seek timely medical evaluation and treatment at a正规 hospital. Specific causes are analyzed as follows:
1. Normal Scar Hypertrophy
During the wound healing phase after surgery, excessive proliferation of fibroblasts and collagen accumulation can form a raised lump, often accompanied by redness and hardness. Avoid scratching or irritation, apply silicone gel to promote softening, wear loose clothing to reduce friction, and patiently wait for the scar to mature and stabilize.
2. Local Foreign Body Irritation
Residual surgical sutures or embedded fabric fibers in the scar tissue may trigger a local reaction leading to lump formation, possibly with mild itching. Seek medical examination promptly; once the type of foreign body is identified, the doctor will remove it. Keep the scar clean and dry post-procedure to prevent infection.
3. Keloid
Due to individual predisposition or wound infection, excessive collagen fiber growth extends beyond the original scar area, forming a hard, itchy, and sometimes painful lump. Treatment may include topical use of compound heparin sodium allantoin gel, triamcinolone acetonide injection, or silicone cream under medical guidance. In severe cases, surgical excision of the keloid may be necessary.
4. Sebaceous Cyst
Blockage of sebaceous gland ducts within the scar leads to retention of secretions and cyst formation, presenting as a soft lump that may become red, swollen, and painful if infected. Under medical guidance, treatments may include mupirocin ointment, cefuroxime axetil tablets, or ichthammol ointment. Recurrent infections may require surgical excision of the cyst.
5. Endometriosis
During surgery, endometrial cells may implant into the abdominal wall scar, proliferating and bleeding cyclically with menstruation, resulting in a lump that becomes noticeably tender and swollen during menstrual periods. Medications such as dydrogesterone tablets, gestrinone capsules, or naproxen sodium tablets may be prescribed. If drug therapy fails, surgical removal of the abdominal wall endometriotic lesion may be required.
In daily life, maintain cleanliness of the scar and avoid scratching or friction. Follow standardized scar care protocols early after surgery to minimize the risk of abnormal scarring. Monitor changes in the lump during menstruation and seek medical attention promptly if swelling or pain occurs. Schedule regular follow-up visits to monitor scar recovery.
