What is Sepsis?
Maternal sepsis
Maternal sepsis is a life-threatening condition that occurs when an infection during pregnancy, childbirth, or the postpartum period spreads throughout the body. It most commonly arises from infections in the uterus, particularly during pregnancy or shortly after childbirth.
While maternal sepsis is preventable, it can develop when surgical incisions (such as from a C-section), perineal tears, or other birth-related wounds become infected in the days or weeks following delivery. Additionally, infections such as pneumonia, strep throat, or urinary tract infections during pregnancy can escalate and lead to sepsis.
Source: Sepsis Australia
Maternal Sepsis Symptoms
Signs and symptoms of maternal sepsis can vary. Contact a healthcare provider immediately if you have any of the following:
Fever and chills
Dizziness
Lower abdominal pain
Foul-smelling vaginal discharge
Vaginal bleeding
Increased heart rate
Chesty cough
Pain/burning on passing urine or not passing urine in a day
Feelings of discomfort or illness
If you detect even a few of these symptoms, seek medical help immediately and ask, “could it be sepsis?”
Preventing Sepsis During and After Pregnancy.
Maternal sepsis can be prevented. It is important to speak up to a healthcare provider if you feel unwell so that you can be treated as quickly as possible. Speaking up can be hard, but if something doesn’t feel right, tell your healthcare provider. Make sure your questions are answered and don’t let anyone dismiss your concerns. The most important factor in preventing during pregnancy is to prevent and treat infections immediately and ensure clean birthing/delivery practices
To prevent sepsis during pregnancy:
Contact your healthcare provider if you think you have an infection of any kind
Be up to date on routine vaccinations, especially flu vaccinations
If a C-section is recommended, ask your healthcare provider how to avoid infection following a C-section
To prevent postpartum sepsis (after childbirth):
Wash your hands often
Keep C-section incisions, vaginal or perineal tears and other wounds clean
Avoid using tampons
Maternal sepsis is still the second leading cause of maternal death. Better education about and awareness of maternal sepsis are crucial to changing this statistic.
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