Yes, it is generally bad to touch stitches unnecessarily.
Touching your stitches can increase the risk of infection and interfere with the healing process. Here's a breakdown of why and what you should do instead:
Why Touching Stitches is a Bad Idea
- Increased Risk of Infection: Your hands carry bacteria, even if they look clean. Touching stitches can transfer these bacteria to the wound site, potentially leading to an infection. According to a reference from 2018, "The best way to prevent an infection of your stitches is to keep them clean and dry and to avoid touching them unnecessarily while your wound is healing."
- Disruption of Healing: Frequent touching can irritate the wound and disrupt the formation of new tissue. This can slow down the healing process or even cause the wound to reopen.
What to Do Instead
Here are some best practices for stitch aftercare:
- Keep them Clean: Gently clean the area around the stitches as instructed by your doctor or healthcare provider.
- Keep them Dry: Moisture can promote bacterial growth. Pat the area dry after cleaning.
- Leave them Alone: Resist the urge to touch, pick at, or scratch your stitches.
- Follow Doctor's Instructions: Adhere to all aftercare instructions provided by your healthcare professional.
By following these guidelines, you can promote proper healing and minimize the risk of complications.
