Healthy Mom

Find out if you have a Postpartum Infection

This test reports on a new mother's risk for Postpartum Infections. It's quick, free, and you’ll get your confidential results instantly.

Start test Quick, free, and you'll get your confidential results instantly.

Or search for another test

Select a test below or search by stage and/or area of concern

Select area(s) of concern
1st, 2nd, 3rd Trimester

Anemia Test

This test reports on an expectant mother's risk for Anemia.

Start test Learn more
1st, 2nd, 3rd Trimester

Severe Morning Sickness Test

This test reports on an expectant mother's risk for Severe Morning Sickness.

Start test Learn more
1st, 2nd, 3rd Trimester

Prenatal Anxiety Test

This test reports on an expectant mother's risk for Prenatal Anxiety.

Start test Learn more
1st, 2nd, 3rd Trimester

Prenatal Depression Test

This test reports on an expectant mother's risk for Prenatal Depression.

Start test Learn more
2nd, 3rd Trimester

Gestational Hypertension Test

This test reports on an expectant mother's risk for Gestational Hypertension.

Start test Learn more
2nd, 3rd Trimester

Gestational Diabetes Test

This test reports on an expectant mother's risk for Gestational Diabetes.

Start test Learn more
1st, 2nd, 3rd Trimester

Pelvic Girdle Pain Test

This test reports on an expectant mother's risk for Pelvic Girdle Pain (also known as Symphysis Pubis Dysfunction).

Start test Learn more
1st, 2nd, 3rd Trimester

Prenatal Sleep Disorder Test

This test reports on an expectant mother's risk for Prenatal Sleep Disorder.

Start test Learn more
Post-Birth

Postpartum Thyroiditis Test

This test reports on a postpartum mother's risk for Postpartum Thyroiditis.

Start test Learn more
1st, 2nd, 3rd Trimester, Post-Birth

Breast Infection Test

This test reports on a new or expectant mother's risk for Breast Infection (also known as Mastitis).

Start test Learn more
Post-Birth

Postpartum Anxiety Test

This test reports on an new mother's risk for Postpartum Anxiety.

Start test Learn more
Post-Birth

Postpartum Depression Test

This test reports on an new mother's risk for Postpartum Depression.

Start test Learn more
Post-Birth

Postpartum Sleep Disorder Test

This test reports on an new mother's risk for Postpartum Sleep Disorder.

Start test Learn more
Post-Birth

Diastasis Recti Test

This test reports on a new mother's risk for Diastasis Recti.

Start test Learn more
2nd, 3rd Trimester

Preeclampsia Test

This test reports on an expectant mother's risk for Preeclampsia.

Start test Learn more
Post-Birth

Postpartum Preeclampsia Test

This test reports on an new mother's risk for Postpartum Preeclampsia.

Start test Learn more
Post-Birth

Postpartum Trauma Test

This test reports on an new mother's risk for Postpartum Trauma.

Start test Learn more
2nd, 3rd Trimester

Obstetric Cholestasis Test

This test reports on an expectant mother's risk for Obstetric Cholestasis.

Start test Learn more
1st, 2nd, 3rd Trimester

Deep Vein Thrombosis Test

This test reports on an expectant mother's risk for Deep Vein Thrombosis (DVT).

Start test Learn more
Post-Birth

Postpartum Cardiomyopathy Test

This test reports on a new mother's risk for Postpartum Cardiomyopathy.

Start test Learn more
1st, 2nd, 3rd Trimester

Pregnancy-related OCD Test

This test reports on an expectant mother's risk for Pregnancy-related OCD.

Start test Learn more
Post-Birth

Postpartum Psychosis Test

This test reports on an new mother's risk for Postpartum Psychosis.

Start test Learn more

Symptoms & Causes

Postpartum infections, also known as puerperal infections, are infections that occur after childbirth. They can affect various parts of the body and, if not treated promptly, can lead to serious health complications. Understanding the symptoms and causes of postpartum infections is essential for early detection and effective treatment.

Symptoms

Postpartum infections can present with a variety of symptoms depending on the site of the infection. Common symptoms include:

  • Fever: A temperature higher than 100.4°F (38°C) is a common sign of infection.
  • Chills: Shivering or shaking chills may accompany a fever.
  • Abdominal Pain: Persistent or severe pain in the lower abdomen can indicate an infection in the uterus.
  • Foul-Smelling Discharge: An unusual or foul-smelling vaginal discharge can be a sign of a uterine infection.
  • Redness and Swelling: Redness, swelling, or tenderness around the incision site if you had a cesarean section or perineal stitches.
  • Increased Heart Rate: A rapid heart rate can be a response to infection.
  • Painful Urination: Pain or burning during urination may indicate a urinary tract infection.
  • Breast Pain: Red, swollen, and painful areas on the breasts can indicate mastitis, a breast infection.
  • Malaise: General feelings of unwellness or fatigue.

Causes

Several factors can contribute to the development of postpartum infections, including:

  • Bacterial Infections: The most common cause of postpartum infections is bacteria entering the body during or after delivery. This can occur through vaginal tears, cesarean section incisions, or medical instruments.
  • Prolonged Labor: A prolonged labor increases the risk of infection due to prolonged exposure to potential bacteria.
  • Cesarean Section: Surgical deliveries have a higher risk of infection compared to vaginal deliveries due to the incision made in the abdomen and uterus.
  • Retained Placental Fragments: If pieces of the placenta are left in the uterus after delivery, they can cause infection.
  • Premature Rupture of Membranes: When the amniotic sac breaks early, it increases the risk of infection.
  • Poor Hygiene: Inadequate hygiene practices during and after delivery can introduce bacteria into the body.
  • Weakened Immune System: Women with weakened immune systems are more susceptible to infections.

Recognizing the symptoms and understanding the causes of postpartum infections can help new mothers seek prompt medical attention. Early diagnosis and appropriate treatment are essential for preventing complications and ensuring a healthy recovery.

Diagnosis & Treatment

Postpartum infections are infections that occur after childbirth, affecting various parts of the body. Timely diagnosis and treatment are crucial to prevent complications and ensure the mother's health. This article outlines the key methods for diagnosing and treating postpartum infections.

Diagnosis

Diagnosing postpartum infections involves several steps:

  • Medical History and Physical Examination: A healthcare provider will review the patient's medical history and conduct a thorough physical examination to identify signs of infection, such as fever, swelling, or tenderness.
  • Blood Tests: Blood tests can help identify infection by checking for elevated white blood cell counts and other markers of infection.
  • Urine Tests: Testing a urine sample can diagnose urinary tract infections or other urinary issues.
  • Vaginal Swabs: Swabs from the vagina or cervix can help identify bacterial infections or other pathogens.
  • Imaging Tests: In some cases, imaging tests like ultrasounds or CT scans may be used to locate the source of infection or identify complications such as abscesses.

Treatment

Treatment for postpartum infections focuses on eliminating the infection and managing symptoms. Treatment options include:

  • Antibiotics: Antibiotics are the primary treatment for bacterial infections. The type of antibiotic prescribed will depend on the specific bacteria causing the infection.
  • Hospitalization: Severe infections may require hospitalization for intravenous (IV) antibiotics and close monitoring.
  • Pain Relief: Over-the-counter or prescription pain relievers can help manage pain and discomfort associated with the infection.
  • Drainage of Abscesses: If an abscess has formed, it may need to be drained surgically to remove the infection.
  • Hydration and Rest: Ensuring adequate hydration and rest is important for recovery. In some cases, IV fluids may be necessary.
  • Follow-up Care: Regular follow-up appointments are essential to monitor recovery and ensure the infection has been fully resolved.

Early diagnosis and appropriate treatment are vital for managing postpartum infections and preventing serious complications. If you suspect you have an infection after giving birth, seek medical attention promptly to ensure a healthy recovery.

When to Seek Treatment

Postpartum infections can pose serious health risks if not treated promptly. New mothers should be aware of the signs and symptoms that warrant immediate medical attention. Here are some key indicators that it’s time to seek treatment for a suspected postpartum infection:

  • High Fever: A temperature higher than 100.4°F (38°C) is a common sign of infection and should not be ignored.
  • Chills and Shaking: Experiencing chills or shaking, especially when accompanied by a fever, can indicate an infection.
  • Severe Abdominal Pain: Persistent or severe pain in the lower abdomen, which may suggest a uterine infection.
  • Foul-Smelling Discharge: Any unusual or foul-smelling vaginal discharge could be a sign of infection and requires medical evaluation.
  • Redness and Swelling: Redness, swelling, or tenderness around a cesarean section incision or perineal stitches should be checked by a healthcare provider.
  • Painful Urination: Pain or burning during urination, which may indicate a urinary tract infection.
  • Breast Pain: Red, swollen, and painful areas on the breasts can indicate mastitis, a breast infection.
  • Increased Heart Rate: A rapid or irregular heart rate can be a response to an underlying infection.
  • General Malaise: Feeling unwell or experiencing extreme fatigue, especially when combined with other symptoms.

If you experience any of these symptoms after giving birth, it is important to seek medical attention immediately. Early diagnosis and treatment are crucial for preventing complications and ensuring a healthy recovery. Don’t hesitate to contact your healthcare provider if you suspect you may have a postpartum infection.