Although uncommon, childbirth puts you at risk for infections such as postpartum uterine infections, postpartum cervical, vaginal and/or perineal infections, or surgical site infections. Not all postpartum infections are in the pelvic area, they can also occur in the bladder or kidneys if you need a urinary catheter.

Postpartum infections include a range of problems that can occur after vaginal and cesarean deliveries or while breastfeeding, such as postpartum uterine infections and postpartum perineal infections. In addition to trauma during childbirth or cesarean delivery, physiological changes during pregnancy contribute to the development of postpartum infections.