What symptom might indicate endometritis after delivery?

The presence of uterine tenderness is a significant symptom that may indicate endometritis following delivery. Endometritis is an infection of the endometrium, the inner lining of the uterus, which can occur postpartum, particularly after cesarean deliveries or in the presence of retained placental tissue or prolonged labor.

Uterine tenderness may manifest as discomfort or pain when palpating the uterus, and it is typically accompanied by other signs such as fever, foul-smelling lochia, and increased heart rate. These clinical features help in establishing a diagnosis of endometritis and necessitate prompt medical intervention, often involving antibiotics.

Other options do not typically suggest an inflammatory process of the endometrium. Severe headaches may be related to factors like hydration status or hormonal changes post-delivery. Constipation can be a common symptom after delivery but is not indicative of an infection. Increased fetal movement pertains to the fetus's activity and is irrelevant in the context of endometritis since it typically relates to in-utero fetal conditions rather than postpartum maternal health conditions. Thus, uterine tenderness stands out as a key indicator of potential endometritis after delivery.