What is a sign of infection after delivery?

A temperature of 39°C on the third day post-discharge is indeed a significant indicator of a possible infection following delivery, particularly if it is accompanied by other clinical signs or symptoms. Postpartum infections can manifest as fever, and a temperature above 38°C (100.4°F) in the postpartum period often prompts further evaluation. This elevated temperature, especially occurring a few days after discharge when the mother is expected to be recovering, raises the suspicion of conditions such as endometritis or urinary tract infections, which are common postpartum complications.

Increased white blood cells can occur due to various physiological processes, including the body's response to delivery itself, and is not specific as a sign of infection in the postpartum period. Persistent abdominal pain is concerning but is not as definitive for infection alone, as it could stem from other postoperative factors, including normal healing processes or complications unrelated to infection. Excessive vaginal discharge could signal a problem, but it requires context regarding the nature of the discharge (e.g., color, odor) and when it occurs post-delivery to be indicative of infection.

Recognizing the hallmark signs of infection in the postpartum period is crucial for timely intervention and care, which makes the elevated temperature a critical monitoring point for new mothers.