In a postpartum client with fever, uterine tenderness, and foul lochia, what is the likely diagnosis?

• A. Endometritis
• B. Mastitis
• C. Wound infection
• D. Postpartum psychosis

Answer: (A)

Postpartum endometritis is suspected when fever occurs together with uterine tenderness and foul-smelling lochia. After delivery, bacteria from the birth canal can ascend into the uterus and cause infection of the endometrium; the foul lochia reflects that the placental site is infected, and the uterine tenderness shows the uterus is involved, often with a systemic fever as the body responds to infection. Management typically involves hospital admission for IV broad-spectrum antibiotics that cover both aerobes and anaerobes, plus supportive monitoring and care. Other postpartum infections present differently: mastitis mainly causes breast-related symptoms, a wound infection centers on the incision or perineal wound, and postpartum psychosis involves mood and behavior changes rather than uterine infection signs.