What investigations are recommended to confirm a diagnosis of puerperal sepsis in a postpartum woman?

Guideline-aligned answer with reasoning, red flags and references. Clinically reviewed by Dr Kola Tytler MBBS CertHE MBA MRCGP.

Posted: 22 August 2025Updated: 22 August 2025 Guideline-Aligned (High Confidence) Clinically Reviewed
Dr Kola Tytler MBBS CertHE MBA MRCGPClinical Lead • iatroX

To confirm a diagnosis of puerperal sepsis in a postpartum woman, the following investigations are recommended:

  • Obtain microbiological specimens for culture, including blood cultures, before starting antimicrobial treatment to identify the causative organism .
  • Carry out venous blood tests including blood gas analysis (with glucose and lactate measurement), full blood count, C-reactive protein, urea and electrolytes, creatinine, liver function tests, and a clotting screen to assess the systemic impact of infection and organ function .
  • Consider further investigations such as imaging if clinically indicated to identify the source of infection .

These investigations should be performed promptly to guide antimicrobial therapy and management decisions in puerperal sepsis ,.

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