248 chapter 11: Labor and birth
Womb infection
Infection of the womb is very dangerous. If not treated, a woman can become
infertile or die.
Danger signs of womb infection:
• fever and chills
• pain and tenderness in the belly
• bad-smelling fluid from the vagina
If the mother complains that she does not feel well, watch her carefully for signs
of infection.
Medicine
ciprofloxacin
and doxycycline
and metronidazole
Medicines for womb infection
How much to take
When to take
500 mg
by mouth, 2 times a day
100 mg
by mouth, 2 times a day
500 mg
by mouth, 2 times a day
Continue giving all of the medicines for 2 more days after the fever is gone. But if she does
not start to feel better after 1 day, take her to the nearest hospital. She may need other
medicines by injection or in the vein (IV).
IMPORTANT Encourage her to drink a lot of fluids. Do not drink alcohol during the time
you are taking metronidazole.
A Health Handbook for Women with Disabilities 2007