Postpartum infections

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Postpartum infections
Streptococcus pyogenes, a common cause of postpartum infections
Synonyms	Puerperal infections
Pronounce	N/A
Specialty	N/A
Symptoms	Fever, pain, foul-smelling vaginal discharge
Complications	Sepsis, septic shock, pelvic abscess
Onset	Within 10 days postpartum
Duration	Varies
Types	N/A
Causes	Bacterial infection
Risks	Cesarean section, prolonged labor, premature rupture of membranes
Diagnosis	Clinical evaluation, blood culture, urine culture
Differential diagnosis	Endometritis, urinary tract infection, mastitis
Prevention	Prophylactic antibiotics, sterile technique during delivery
Treatment	Antibiotics, supportive care
Medication	Clindamycin, Gentamicin, Ampicillin
Prognosis	Good with treatment
Frequency	5-10% of deliveries
Deaths	N/A

Postpartum Infections, also known as childbed fever or puerperal fever, represent bacterial infections of the female reproductive tract that occur after childbirth or miscarriage. These infections are significant complications that can affect postpartum women.

Symptoms and Diagnosis

The typical signs and symptoms of postpartum infections include a fever of over 38.0 °C (100.4 °F), chills, lower abdominal pain, and possibly a foul-smelling vaginal discharge. Diagnosis is primarily based on these clinical symptoms and may be supported by laboratory tests.

Causes

Postpartum infections can be caused by various bacteria, with the most common being Group A Streptococcus and Escherichia coli. The risk of infection increases with cesarean sections, prolonged labor, or if the membranes have been ruptured for an extended period before delivery.

Treatment

Treatment typically involves antibiotics to fight the bacterial infection. In severe cases, additional interventions may be necessary, including surgery.

Prevention

Preventative measures include good hygiene practices during and after delivery, proper wound care for cesarean sections, and the use of prophylactic antibiotics when indicated.

Epidemiology

Postpartum infections typically occur after the first 24 hours and within the first ten days following delivery. The incidence varies, but these infections remain a significant concern for maternal health globally.

Historical Perspective

Historically, postpartum infections were a major cause of mortality. The introduction of antiseptic techniques in obstetrics, notably by figures like Ignaz Semmelweis, dramatically reduced their incidence.

See Also

• Obstetrics
• Maternal health
• Infection control

External Links

• World Health Organization - Puerperal Sepsis
• American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists - Postpartum Infections

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