Postpartum Hematoma After C-Section: Symptoms, Recovery & What to Expect

Question
I am 40 years old and just had my 3rd child on 20 Jun 05.  That was my second pregnancy, I had twins 13 years ago by C-section. This baby was a scheduled c-section and apparently some blood vessels were cut.  I was told it was called a hematoma. I had a huge bruise on the right side of my stomach, just about the ovary area, and it went down my leg too.  At my 6 week post-partum check, my uterus was still enlarged and my Dr said it would go down soon.  At nine weeks, I had an ultra sound and it was determined that my uterus was 10 (I think cm, not inches) instead of the normal 7.  The doctor was still not concerned.  I am now at 11 weeks with no apparent change in the size of my stomach.  It is hard to the touch and somewhat painful if I really push on it.  I have no loose or hanging post-baby flesh on my stomach at all, it is hard and firm and round.  

Is this normal and what should I do?  I am very scared that I will look like this for the rest of my life.

Answer
You are now only 11 weeks post-cesarean section. Your uterus should return to normal size within 12 weeks from the cesarean section and you should also start having your period again. If you have, in addition, a hematoma under the skin that extends down your leg, that should also disappear. If not, the blood may have to be evacuated. I would use soaks and ice if it is a hematoma. (The uterus should feel firm and hard and should get smaller and smaller as the weeks go on). If you have pain in the hematoma or if it appears to be getting larger, contact your doctor.