Signs & Symptoms of Infection After Giving Birth

A postpartum infection can occur after a woman has given birth. According to "What To Expect," it is suspected that as many as 8 percent of women may suffer from an infection after giving birth. There are several signs and symptoms to look out for.

Abnormal Discharge

Abnormal discharge can be a sign of an infection after giving birth. Abnormal discharge will have a foul smell to it.

Fever

A symptom of an infection after giving birth is a fever. Medical treatment should be sought if the fever lasts for more than four hours and is over 100.5 degrees F.

Pain

A sign of an infection after giving birth is severe pain. This pain generally occurs in the abdominal area. The woman may be doubled over from the pain.

Tenderness

If a woman receives stitches due to a tear in the vaginal area or a c-section, extreme tenderness can be a sign of an infection after giving birth.

Warning

Infections can be deadly after a woman has given birth. If an infections is suspected, medical care should be sought immediately.

References

• What To Expect
• Harvard Medical School