What is the cause of postpartum fever? Prohibition of sexual activity after childbirth can effectively prevent postpartum fever

The phenomenon of postpartum fever caused by infection of the reproductive organs in pregnant women is called puerperal fever. So what is the cause of puerperal fever?

Main factors causing postpartum fever

On the 42nd day after childbirth, around 5 weeks later, the uterus can almost return to its original size, with a weight of only 60-100gm left. During this period, so-called lochia will be expelled from the uterus, with a color ranging from red to light, then turning into light yellow, about 3 to 4 weeks later. After placental detachment, the endometrium in the uterine cavity gradually proliferates from the basal layer of the endometrium and then recovers. During this period, the cervix, vagina, and urinary tract also slowly return to their original state. If the mother's body temperature reaches 38 ℃ or even higher at this time, especially 10 days after delivery 24 hours after delivery, due to a birth canal infection, we can say that the mother has postpartum fever.

The main reason for this is not only due to factors such as prenatal anemia, malnutrition, or congenital weakness of the mother, but also due to infections in the birth canal and perineal wound during the production process, as well as blood loss. Of course, during this period, there is also a possibility of fever and infection caused by inflammation of the urinary tract or breast, which is not suitable for production. Throughout the entire process of production and childbirth, medical staff need to undergo vaginal internal examinations from time to time in order to evaluate the progress of the entire process. This examination naturally cannot be completely sterile, and of course, it may cause the introduction of some bacteria. If early dehydration occurs again, it will further exacerbate the possibility of infection.

In addition to the reasons listed above, the longer the waiting time for childbirth, the greater the relative chance of infection. In addition, during childbirth, lacerations of the cervix, vagina, and perineum (especially third or fourth degree lacerations) may be invaded by bacteria.

The postpartum period can be said to be an important time for the mother to recover both physically and mentally, especially as Chinese people attach great importance to postpartum confinement. I believe that as long as we take careful care of ourselves, if there is any fever or physical discomfort, we should detect and treat it early. I believe that every mother can stay away from the dilemma of postpartum fever.