An infection of the lining of the uterus is called
'endometritis'. This type of infection may happen for around 1
to 3 % of woman after a vaginal birth, and 10 to 30% of women
after a Caesarean birth. Other factors that can increase the
likelihood of a uterine infection occurring can include the
waters being broken for more than 24 hours, a long labour, and
multiple internal vaginal examinations during the labour,
retaining a part of the placenta or membranes in the uterus
after the birth and interventions such as forceps or ventouse.
Women who are anaemic are also at increased risk, because their
resistance and immunity are lowered. The signs of a uterine
infection can include: - A fever (above 38o Celsius) and a rapid
pulse (above 100 beats per minute). - Lower abdominal pain, with
the uterus being tender to touch, when the belly is felt. - The
vaginal blood loss smelling offensive, or looking like it has
greenish, yellow pus mixed with it. - Possibly heavier bleeding.
- Possibly a headache, sweats and 'the