The information on this website is not intended for diagnosis or treatment. Please consult your physician for health concerns.

+90 850 321 50 00

Postpartum Endometritis

Postpartum intrauterine infection presents with fever and a tender uterus.

Written by: Saygı Hospital Health Guide Editorial Board
Last updated:

This content has been compiled by the Saygı Hospital Health Guide Editorial Board and is periodically reviewed by a specialist physician.

References (5)

This content is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. You can book an appointment at our Kadın Hastalıkları ve Doğum department. Book Appointment →

What is Postpartum Endometritis?

Postpartum endometritis is the infection of the uterine inner lining that develops within the first 6 weeks after delivery. Its incidence after cesarean is 5-10 times higher than after vaginal delivery. The agents are usually polymicrobial, with a mixture of aerobic and anaerobic bacteria.

In the pathophysiology, the placental separation site is colonized by the cervical flora, and especially prolonged labor, multiple vaginal examinations, chorioamnionitis and premature membrane rupture increase the risk of infection. It can progress to acute sepsis.

In treatment, the ampicillin-gentamicin combination is administered intravenously until clinical improvement; addition of clindamycin is recommended in cases that develop after cesarean. In cases unresponsive to treatment, abscess, septic pelvic thrombophlebitis and retention should be considered.

Symptoms

Postpartum fever of 38.5°C or higher
Lower abdominal tenderness and uterine pain
Foul-smelling lochia
Tachycardia and weakness
Chills and shivering
Uterine subinvolution

Risk Factors

Cesarean delivery
Prolonged labor and multiple vaginal examinations
Premature membrane rupture
History of chorioamnionitis
Manual placental removal
Low socioeconomic level and antenatal anemia

When to See a Doctor?

If you experience any of the following symptoms, seek medical attention promptly:

  • When fever, chills and abdominal pain begin postpartum
  • When changes in lochia color and odor occur
  • When weakness, dizziness and palpitations develop
  • In a general infection picture different from suspected breast mastitis
  • When discharge or warmth is noticed at the cesarean wound

Treatment Methods

01
Complete blood count, CRP and blood culture
02
Broad parenteral antibiotic (ampicillin+gentamicin±clindamycin)
03
Hemodynamic and fever monitoring
04
Ultrasound and curettage in suspected retention
05
Analgesic and fluid-electrolyte support
06
Switch to oral antibiotic with clinical improvement and follow-up

Which Department to Visit?

You can visit our Kadın Hastalıkları ve Doğum department for these complaints. Our specialist physicians will create the most suitable treatment plan for you.

Learn About Kadın Hastalıkları ve Doğum Department

Let us help you

You can make an appointment with our specialists or contact us for your concerns.

Book AppointmentContact Us

Related Health Topics

Other articles from the same department you may want to explore.

Regular Gynecological Check-up

Kadın Hastalıkları ve Doğum

Regular gynecological check-ups enable early diagnosis of many women's diseases and increase treatment success. It is recommended that every sexually active woman or woman over 21 see a gynecologist at least once a year.

Cervical Cancer

Kadın Hastalıkları ve Doğum

Cervical cancer develops from uncontrolled growth of cells in the cervix and is among the most common women's cancers worldwide. Precancerous lesions can be recognized with regular Pap smear and HPV testing.

HPV and Vaccination

Kadın Hastalıkları ve Doğum

HPV is a common virus transmitted sexually that can lead to certain types of cancer. Vaccination provides over 90% protection against high-risk HPV strains.

Ovarian Cyst

Kadın Hastalıkları ve Doğum

Ovarian cysts are fluid-filled sacs that form in or on the ovarian tissue. Most are asymptomatic and disappear spontaneously; however, large or complex cysts can cause pain and complications.

Endometriosis

Kadın Hastalıkları ve Doğum

Endometriosis affects about 10% of women of reproductive age, causing cyclic pelvic pain, dysmenorrhea, dyspareunia, and infertility; combined medical and laparoscopic treatment improves quality of life.

Uterine Fibroids

Kadın Hastalıkları ve Doğum

Uterine fibroids are benign tumors developing from the uterine muscle layer. They affect 20-50% of women of reproductive age; most are asymptomatic, but can cause bleeding and pain.

Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS)

Kadın Hastalıkları ve Doğum

PCOS is the most common endocrine disease affecting approximately 10% of women of reproductive age, characterized by androgen excess, ovulation disorder, and polycystic ovarian appearance.

Menopause

Kadın Hastalıkları ve Doğum

Menopause is the life stage defined by not having a period for 12 consecutive months and the natural cessation of ovarian function. The average age is 51, but it can vary between 45-55 years.

Health Disclaimer: The information on this page is prepared for general informational purposes only. It does not replace medical diagnosis and treatment. Please consult your physician for your complaints. Saygı Hospital does not accept responsibility for actions taken based on the information on this page.