Postpartum Infections: Causes, Symptoms & Prevention

After childbirth, a woman’s body goes through a lot to adjust to new conditions. This makes mothers vulnerable to a range of postpartum infections. While, at times, these may be somewhat manageable, when left untreated, they could pose potential health risks. 

Being a new mother, looking out for signs of these after-delivery infections may get tricky. However, this article will help offer a stable guide to understanding puerperal infections. What may be causing them and most of all, how to detect it early.

1. What are postpartum infections?
2. What are the 7 common postpartum infections?
3. How do I know if I have an infection after childbirth?
4. How do you treat a postpartum infection?

Postpartum infections occur due to bacterial resistance that the body encounters during the extremities of labour and delivery. In particular, women who had caesarean deliveries1, went into labour before their caesarean or had repeated vaginal examinations are much more likely to get these infections. 

These may manifest in fever and a degree of different indications highlighted below, in the first ten days after your delivery. Common sites of these types of puerperal infections include breasts, uterus, urinary tract, trauma to perineum and surgical incisions. Hence, staying on the lookout for any abnormality will ensure a prompt diagnosis. This helps prevent any complications and keeps you safe. 

While there may be several types of postpartum complications, here are the 8 most common ones:

1. Endometritis

Endometritis is the most common form of postpartum infection. It is caused by a bacterial infection of the inner lining of the uterus, or endometrium, to be specific. It is an inflammatory condition that is either caused by bacterial imbalance in the reproductive tract, tuberculosis, or sexually transmitted diseases (STIs). There could be serious consequences for leaving the condition untreated, like infertility, pelvic abscess or septicemia. Some of its symptoms include foul-smelling vaginal discharge, pelvic pain, etc. Panty Liners are an effective way of dealing with the hassle of vaginal discharge. You can choose between ALWAYS Comfort Protect or Extra Protect panty liners based on the coverage you need. These are soft, fast absorbing and possess unique odour neutralising technology, perfect for your days out.

2. Urinary Tract Infection (UTI)

Bacterial infections that affect the urinary system, which comprises the kidneys, bladder and urethra, are called Urinary Tract Infections (UTIs). The leading causes of these after-delivery urine infections are either bladder sensitivity infection after childbirth, trauma to the body parts during birth or urinary catheterization3. In general, UTI postpartum infections cause painful and frequent urination, bladder infection after childbirth, fever, and lower back pain. Postpartum UTI treatments often include antibiotics prescribed my medical professionals.

3. Puerperal Mastitis

While it is more common in breastfeeding mothers, puerperal mastitis is the infection of the breast tissue through cracked or sore nipples. This renders it painfully red, warm and swollen. Generally, apart from these, individuals may also experience flu-like symptoms, including fever and chills. Treatment with the help of antibiotics is usually prescribed. Mothers are encouraged to continue pumping or breastfeeding during such breast infections after birth as it helps relieve pain by emptying the breast of milk.

4. Caesarean delivery Wound Infections

Infections on the site of surgical incisions from caesarean deliveries are termed post-caesarean wound infections. These are often brought on by pathogens and can leave you with a fever, redness, swelling, lower abdominal pains and a wound abscess. Based on the severity of the complication, after-delivery infections are either treated with antibiotics after cleaning the wound or surgical debridement.

5. Perineal/Episiotomy Infection

Episiotomy is the tear in the perineum, the area between the vagina and anus, due to childbirth. Painkillers and antibiotics are generally administered during this time. Excessive pain, smelly vaginal discharge or inflamed skin around the episiotomy can be indicators4 of the infection. Good hygiene practices with how to care for vaginal discharge and proper wound care can ease the healing process. Combatting such puerperal infections can be a hassle. To make your intimate hygiene journey easier it is recommended that you use panty liners to manage your vaginal discharge effectively.

6. Septic Pelvic Thrombophlebitis

While septic pelvic thrombophlebitis is a relatively rare infection, it is integral to know about it due to its severity. It is induced by a blood clot formation in the pelvic veins accompanied by infection. The symptoms of the infection include a high fever that doesn't respond to antibiotics, persistent back pain, abdominal pain, and an elevated breathing rate.

7. Postpartum Illness

You need to be on the lookout for any influenza-imitating symptoms like persistent fever, 3-day postpartum sore throat, excessive fatigue, cough, and vomiting. This holds up until at least two weeks postpartum and requires immediate medical intervention. 

Gaining a perspective on different types of infections will help detect the symptoms as they arise. Here's what to look out for:

• High fever
• Foul-smelling vaginal discharge
• Pain during urination
• Red, painful breast
• Inflamed wound or surgical site
• Abdominal pain
• High respiratory rate

Moreover, systemic signs like fatigue, chills, and malaise may also warrant a trip to your healthcare provider. 

The treatment for bacterial postpartum infections involves antibiotics and monitored painkillers to help manage the discomfort. In more severe cases, hospitalisation may be necessary. Moreover, close monitoring is recommended for complications like sepsis or abscess formation for early surgical intervention. It is important that you follow measures like good hygiene, increased hydration, and optimal rest as they aid with recovery. 

Since childbirth is heavily taxing on a mother's body, puerperal infections are a potential aftermath and should not be ignored. Always put your health at the forefront and vigilantly look for signs that might indicate so. Being informed is your first line of defence and heading to a medical practitioner is your second. A healthy mother makes a healthy baby.

Disclaimer:

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