What class of infection does postpartum endometritis represent?

Postpartum endometritis is classified as a bacterial infection. It typically arises following childbirth due to the presence of bacteria in the uterine cavity after delivery, especially when factors such as prolonged labor, rupture of membranes, or cesarean delivery complicate the postpartum period. The most common pathogens involved include a mix of aerobic and anaerobic bacteria, often stemming from the vaginal flora or the environment during delivery.

The condition presents with symptoms such as fever, uterine tenderness, foul-smelling lochia, and malaise, indicating the body’s response to an infectious process. The treatment primarily involves the use of broad-spectrum antibiotics aimed at covering the range of possible bacterial pathogens responsible for the infection. Recognizing postpartum endometritis as a bacterial infection is crucial for prompt and effective management to prevent further complications and support recovery.