Which finding is most indicative of endometritis postpartum?

Which finding is most indicative of endometritis postpartum?

• A. Foul-smelling lochia with uterine tenderness
• B. Clear lochia with minimal pain
• C. Normal vital signs
• D. Absence of fever

Answer: (A)

Postpartum endometritis is an infection of the uterine lining after delivery. The most telling sign is foul-smelling lochia paired with uterine tenderness. The putrid odor points to bacterial infection in the uterus, and the tenderness indicates uterine inflammation from that infection. While fever and tachycardia can occur, afebrile cases do exist, the combination of a foul odor and a tender uterus is the strongest clue. Clear lochia with minimal pain or normal vital signs without fever fits less with an infectious endometritis.

Postpartum endometritis is an infection of the uterine lining after delivery. The most telling sign is foul-smelling lochia paired with uterine tenderness. The putrid odor points to bacterial infection in the uterus, and the tenderness indicates uterine inflammation from that infection. While fever and tachycardia can occur, afebrile cases do exist, the combination of a foul odor and a tender uterus is the strongest clue. Clear lochia with minimal pain or normal vital signs without fever fits less with an infectious endometritis.