Differential Diagnosis for Abdominal Pain, Nausea, and Vomiting after a Cesarean Section

• Single most likely diagnosis:
  • a) Adhesions: Adhesions are the most common cause of abdominal pain, nausea, and vomiting after a cesarean section. They can form as a result of the surgical procedure and may cause bowel obstruction, leading to the symptoms described.
• Other Likely diagnoses:
  • c) Incisional hernia: An incisional hernia can occur at the site of the cesarean section incision and may cause abdominal pain, nausea, and vomiting, especially if it becomes incarcerated or strangulated.
  • b) Volvulus: Volvulus, or the twisting of a portion of the intestine, can cause abdominal pain, nausea, and vomiting. Although less common than adhesions, it is a possible cause of these symptoms after a cesarean section.
• Do Not Miss diagnoses:
  • Internal hemorrhage: Although not listed among the options, internal hemorrhage is a potentially life-threatening condition that can cause abdominal pain, nausea, and vomiting after a cesarean section. It is crucial to consider this diagnosis to ensure timely intervention.
  • Infection (e.g., endometritis, wound infection): Infections can cause significant morbidity and mortality if not promptly diagnosed and treated. Symptoms may include abdominal pain, nausea, vomiting, and fever.
• Rare diagnoses:
  • d) Intussusception: Intussusception, where a portion of the intestine telescopes into another, is a rare cause of abdominal pain, nausea, and vomiting in adults, especially after a cesarean section. It is more commonly seen in pediatric patients.
  • Other rare causes might include conditions like bowel ischemia or thrombosis, which, although unlikely, could present with similar symptoms and require urgent medical attention.