Which of the following signs indicates a postpartum infection such as endometritis?

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Multiple Choice

Which of the following signs indicates a postpartum infection such as endometritis?

Foul-smelling lochia is a key sign of postpartum uterine infection such as endometritis. After delivery, lochia normally progresses from bright red (rubra) to pink-brown (serosa) to pale yellow/white (alba). A strong, unpleasant odor suggests bacterial growth in the uterus and signals that an infection may be present, requiring clinical assessment for fever, uterine tenderness, and possible treatment with antibiotics. Other options reflect noninfectious postpartum changes: delayed milk production relates to lactation, mild incision soreness without redness can be normal healing, and urinary frequency often results from postpartum diuresis. So the odor of lochia is the best indicator of endometritis among these signs.

Foul-smelling lochia is a key sign of postpartum uterine infection such as endometritis. After delivery, lochia normally progresses from bright red (rubra) to pink-brown (serosa) to pale yellow/white (alba). A strong, unpleasant odor suggests bacterial growth in the uterus and signals that an infection may be present, requiring clinical assessment for fever, uterine tenderness, and possible treatment with antibiotics. Other options reflect noninfectious postpartum changes: delayed milk production relates to lactation, mild incision soreness without redness can be normal healing, and urinary frequency often results from postpartum diuresis. So the odor of lochia is the best indicator of endometritis among these signs.

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