Which lochia characteristics suggest infection?

• A. Foul odor with fever.
• B. Foul odor with fever.
• C. Foul odor, heavy lochia with clots, or lochia persisting beyond the expected timeframe with fever or uterine tenderness.
• D. Lochia that is pink-brown and short in duration.

Answer: (B)

Foul odor of lochia paired with fever signals infection because lochia should not have a strong, foul smell, and fever shows the body mounting a systemic response to invading bacteria. In postpartum infection, such as endometritis, bacteria in the uterus cause both local disruption and a systemic reaction, so this combination is a clear red flag that requires prompt assessment and treatment.

Lochia that is pink-brown and short in duration is a normal postpartum change and does not indicate infection. Heavy lochia with clots or lochia persisting longer than expected can suggest problems, but the presence of fever with foul odor specifically highlights an infectious process and is the strongest cue among these options.