In the event of a septic abortion following delivery, which clinical presentation might be observed?

Foul-smelling vaginal discharge is a key clinical presentation that can be observed in the event of a septic abortion following delivery. This symptom arises due to the presence of bacterial infection within the reproductive tract, commonly associated with retained products of conception. The discharge indicates that there is an infection, often accompanied by a significant inflammatory response, which can be a dangerous condition requiring prompt medical intervention.

In contrast, vaginal bleeding could occur in various situations post-delivery but does not specifically indicate an infection like septic abortion does. Elevated blood pressure is not a typical sign of septic abortion and does not directly correlate with infections that lead to this condition. Severe headaches may be associated with other medical issues, but they are not characteristic of septic abortion and do not provide direct insight into an infection. Thus, the presence of foul-smelling vaginal discharge serves as a strong clinical indicator of septic abortion following delivery, highlighting the need for further assessment and treatment.