General Information About Puerperal Fever
Disease Details and Frequently Asked Questions
It is a dangerous febrile illness caused by the spread of infections developing in and around the uterus to the whole body (sepsis) during the first 6-week postpartum period after childbirth.
Tears during childbirth, infection of the cesarean section incision, retained pieces of the placenta in the uterus, or inadequate sterilization in hospital conditions allow bacteria to reach the uterus.
Sudden fever exceeding 38°C within the first 10 days after birth, shivering episodes, extreme tenderness over the uterus, lower abdominal pain, and a very foul-smelling (purulent) lochia discharge.
In the past, during times when hygiene was poor and mortality rates were high, the sudden fever and delirium (hallucinations) of postpartum women were attributed by the public to evil spirits (the red demon), hence taking this name.
Physical examination reveals that the uterus has not shrunk and is painful. White blood cell (Leukocyte) and CRP levels in the blood are very high; bacteria are detected using blood, urine, and uterine cultures.
Due to the risk of sepsis (blood poisoning), the patient is immediately hospitalized, and strong dual/triple intravenous antibiotic therapy is started. If there are retained pieces in the uterus, the inside of the uterus is cleaned by curettage under general anesthesia.
Our health library contents are prepared for informational purposes only and with scientific data available at the time of recording. For all your questions, concerns, diagnosis, or treatment regarding your health, please consult your doctor or a healthcare institution.
