The most critical condition of a mother in pregnancy is during the time of giving birth and right after the fetus is born. It is in here where there are unstable vital signs. When a woman gets fever after birth, or what we call a postpartum fever, her life is definitely in danger.
Fever during postpartum should never be ignored because it may mean serious infections from the mother. The first thing to do is identify why she develops a fever.
There are many causes of postpartum fever; it could be one of the following conditions:
• Urinary tract infection
• Endometritis or swelling of the inner lining of the reproductive system
• Pneumonia (lung inflammation)
• Mastitis (inflammation of breast tissue)
• Vein thrombosis (Septic pelvic and deep vein)
• Puerperal Endometritis (infection of the lower genital)
There are many causes of postpartum fever. Of all the causes’ infection is the number one reason why a mother suffers from fever after delivery. Basically the first sign of postpartum fever is pain in the lower uterine segment. The uterus becomes tender then fever eventually follows. A mother will experience chills, body malaise, headache and vomiting even though there is only a mild fever. When the uterus becomes tender, rapid heart beat will be noted to the mother. The vaginal discharge becomes odorous and profuse.
To prevent postpartum fever, a health care provider should wash hands thoroughly before putting on the surgical gloves. Aseptic technique should be followed strictly by the health care provider. The mother too should wash her hands every time she handles any thing to keep her body safe. An anti biotic should be given to the mother if fever persists the whole day. The mother should stay in the hospital until certain that fever is gone.