What maternal condition is a risk factor for developing endometritis post-delivery?

Prolonged rupture of membranes is indeed a significant risk factor for developing endometritis after delivery. When the membranes surrounding the fetus rupture, it creates an opportunity for bacteria to enter the uterine cavity. If the rupture lasts for an extended period before delivery, the risk of infection increases, particularly because the protective barrier that the membranes provide is compromised. This extended exposure can lead to a higher likelihood of endometritis, which is an infection of the uterine lining.

The other conditions, while they may carry their own risks during pregnancy and delivery, do not have the same direct association with the development of endometritis. For instance, gestational diabetes mainly affects metabolic processes and can influence outcomes, but it does not inherently increase the risk of uterine infections. Preeclampsia involves elevated blood pressure and can lead to complications for both mother and baby, but its connection to post-delivery infections like endometritis is not as direct. Chronic hypertension can also contribute to overall pregnancy risks but is not specifically tied to post-delivery uterine infections. Thus, prolonged rupture of membranes stands out as a clear and relevant risk factor for developing endometritis postpartum.