How common are postpartum infections?

Postpartum infections are quite common after delivery, and around 5-10% of women experience them. The chances are higher with C-sections or complicated deliveries.

Can infections affect my baby?

Infections do not harm your baby. Severe infections with high fever and dehydration require antibiotics. Your doctor will suggest better feeding options in such cases, as some are not suitable while breastfeeding.

How long does it take to recover from a postpartum infection?

You may feel better after 7-10 days of treatment in most cases, but recovery time varies for everyone, depending on the type of infection. Complete your course of medicines as advised by your doctor to recover fully.

Infections After Delivery: Causes, Prevention, and Recovery Tips

Childbirth can be intense for your body to handle sometimes. Everything is stretched to its limits during pregnancy and delivery, including your immune system and hormones. Most postpartum recovery occurs without complications, but you may develop infections in some cases.

What Exactly Are Postpartum Infections?

Postpartum infections are bacterial infections that occur within the first six weeks after childbirth. They can develop in the uterus (womb), the urinary tract, the breasts, or at the site of a C-section or tear.

In simple terms, when germs enter your body and start multiplying, they cause an infection. Your body is at its most vulnerable state after delivery because of wounds and a comparatively weaker immune system.

Why Do Some Women Get Infections After Delivery?

It is easy to question “why me?” when you are already going through a sensitive phase. But the truth is that you can develop an infection after childbirth due to various reasons.

Those who have Cesarean (C-section) deliveries are up to 10 times more likely to get infections than those with vaginal births.
Bacteria have more time to reach your uterus if your water breaks long before delivery.
In some cases, a lack of sterile tools or hospital environments can lead to infection.
When some parts of the placenta remain in the uterus, they can cause an infection.
If your body is already weak, it struggles to fight off germs.
A urinary catheter used during or after delivery can introduce bacteria into your urinary tract.

What Types of Infections Can Occur After Childbirth?

The infections can affect your body in different ways.

Uterine Infection (Endometritis)

This type of infection is caused by bacteria that enter the uterus after delivery. It is common if you delivered via C-section or experienced prolonged birth. You will notice fever, abdominal pain and foul-smelling discharge.

Wound or Stitches Infection

Wounds are the breeding grounds for many germs when you do not take care of them. The chances of this infection increase when you have had a C-section incision or vaginal tears/episiotomy. Look for redness, swelling, pus, or pain around the stitches in such cases.

Urinary Tract Infection (UTI)

You may find it painful to urinate after delivery. At the same time, you may have a fever, feel a burning sensation or the urge to go to the bathroom frequently.

Breast Infection (Mastitis)

Mastitis is caused by bacteria entering your body through a cracked nipple. You may feel breast pain, swelling, fever, and pus discharge in some cases.

Vaginal Infection

Hormonal changes can upset the natural balance of bacteria in your vagina, increasing the likelihood of bacterial vaginosis or yeast infections.

How Can You Tell If You Have a Postpartum Infection?

Infections may not show up immediately after birth, but you can look out for the signs listed below:

Fever over 100.4°F (38°C)
Chills or body aches
Foul-smelling vaginal discharge
Pain or swelling around stitches or incisions
Burning sensation while urinating
Severe lower abdominal pain
Red, swollen, or painful breasts

Call your doctor for evaluation of any of these symptoms at the earliest to avoid severe complications.

How Are These Infections Treated?

Postpartum infections are treatable with antibiotics, but remember to take your doctor's advice.

Uterine or wound infections require oral or IV antibiotics and proper cleaning of the affected area
UTIs are treated with safe antibiotics for breastfeeding mothers
Mastitis requires antibiotics, warm compresses, and breastfeeding to keep milk flowing
Doctors prescribe antifungal creams or tablets to treat yeast infections

When Should You See a Doctor Immediately?

The following signs mean you need urgent medical help:

High fever for more than 24 hours
Pus or foul-smelling discharge
Red, hot, or painful incision area
Severe abdominal pain or swelling
Difficulty breathing or feeling faint

What You Can Do Next: A Quick Checklist

Check your body temperature daily for the first week
Keep your stitches clean and dry
Drink 8–10 glasses of water daily
Get enough rest to help your body heal faster
Do not skip postnatal checkups

The Emotional Side: Healing Beyond the Physical

Infections after delivery are common, but can also be stressful to deal with when you do not know how. They can impact your mind as well when all you want to do is tend to your newborn’s needs. Do not hesitate to express your feelings to your partner, family or doctor for guidance. There is nothing you did that caused this situation, but paying attention to recovery is the most critical thing in this period.

Your body works incredibly hard to bring life into the world, and it deserves gentle care after delivery. Postpartum infections can feel concerning, but most of them are treatable. You can take care of your health by recognising symptoms, maintaining hygiene, and staying in touch with your medical team.

Whether you’re pregnant, a new mom, or navigating postpartum, you don’t have to do it alone. Join our support group to connect, share, and support one another.

FAQs on Why Some Women Develop Infections After Delivery?

How common are postpartum infections?
Postpartum infections are quite common after delivery, and around 5-10% of women experience them. The chances are higher with C-sections or complicated deliveries.
Can infections affect my baby?
Infections do not harm your baby. Severe infections with high fever and dehydration require antibiotics. Your doctor will suggest better feeding options in such cases, as some are not suitable while breastfeeding.
How long does it take to recover from a postpartum infection?
You may feel better after 7-10 days of treatment in most cases, but recovery time varies for everyone, depending on the type of infection. Complete your course of medicines as advised by your doctor to recover fully.