Miscarriage, medically termed spontaneous abortion, is the unexpected loss of a pregnancy before the 20th week of gestation. This experience is common, affecting approximately 10% to 20% of known pregnancies, with many occurring before a person even realizes they are pregnant. While most miscarriages resolve without complications, it is important to be aware that infections can sometimes develop. Recognizing potential signs of infection early is helpful for timely medical intervention, supporting both physical recovery and overall well-being.
Factors Contributing to Infection
Infections after a miscarriage can arise from several factors, primarily involving the body’s natural healing process and the potential for bacterial entry. One significant reason is the presence of retained pregnancy tissue within the uterus. If parts of the placenta or other gestational tissues are not fully expelled, they can serve as a breeding ground for bacteria, leading to a uterine infection.
Another pathway for infection is an open cervix. After a miscarriage, the cervix may remain slightly open for a period, which can allow bacteria from the vaginal canal to enter the uterus, an environment that is typically sterile. While less common, pre-existing infections or a compromised immune system can also increase the susceptibility to developing an infection post-miscarriage.
Specific Signs of Infection
Recognizing specific signs of infection after a miscarriage involves observing changes in bodily functions and general health. A fever, typically defined as a temperature above 100.4°F (38°C), especially when accompanied by chills or shivering, can indicate an infection.
Unusual vaginal discharge is another significant indicator. Normal discharge is usually milky white, but an infection might cause changes in color, such as green, yellow, or grey. The consistency might also become lumpy or resemble cottage cheese, and a foul or pungent odor, often described as fishy, is a strong warning sign.
Severe or worsening abdominal pain that differs from typical post-miscarriage cramping can signal an infection. While some cramping is normal as the uterus contracts, pain that is intense, persistent, or increasing in severity, particularly in the lower abdomen, warrants attention.
Heavy or prolonged bleeding beyond what is expected after a miscarriage can also be a sign. While some bleeding is normal as the uterus sheds its lining, excessively heavy bleeding, such as soaking more than one sanitary pad per hour, or bleeding that continues much longer than the typical one to two weeks, may indicate complications, including infection. Passing large blood clots or tissue that is unusual in appearance also requires evaluation. Additionally, a general feeling of being unwell, known as malaise, can be present. This might manifest as extreme fatigue, body aches, dizziness, or a pervasive sense of weakness.
Urgent Medical Attention
Prompt medical attention is necessary if certain symptoms or combinations of symptoms appear after a miscarriage. A high fever, specifically sustained temperatures above 100.4°F (38°C) coupled with chills, signals a potential serious infection. Persistent and severe abdominal pain that does not respond to pain relief or pain that intensifies should also prompt immediate contact with a healthcare provider.
Vaginal discharge with an extremely strong, foul odor, especially if accompanied by changes in color or consistency, indicates a likely infection. Excessively heavy bleeding, defined as soaking through more than two maxi pads in an hour for two consecutive hours, requires urgent evaluation to prevent significant blood loss. Signs of shock or severe illness, such as dizziness, fainting, a rapid heart rate, confusion, or very low blood pressure, are medical emergencies that necessitate immediate care at an emergency room.
What to Expect at the Doctor
When seeking medical attention for a suspected infection after a miscarriage, healthcare providers will perform a thorough evaluation. This typically includes a physical examination and may involve blood tests to check for elevated white blood cells. An ultrasound is often performed to check for any retained pregnancy tissue within the uterus.
Treatment for a post-miscarriage infection usually involves antibiotics. If retained tissue is identified as the cause of the infection, a procedure called dilation and curettage (D&C) might be performed. This procedure gently removes any remaining tissue from the uterus. Infections after miscarriage are treatable, and early intervention plays a significant role in a successful recovery.