8. Sepsis

• A life-threatening condition where the body’s response to infection during pregnancy, childbirth or post-partum period injures its own tissues and organs. 

• Can develop rapidly and potentially fatally if not identified and treated promptly. 

• Pregnancy women are at greater risk of sepsis due to naturally occurring immunological changes in the body. 

• The common cause is severe bacterial infection of the uterus during pregnancy and/or immediately following birth. 

• Early warning signs include: high/low temperature, shivering/chills, dizziness, fast heart rate, rapid breathing, chesty cough, pain when passing urine, feeling unwell, confusion, disorientation, feeling like something is seriously wrong.

Effects of sepsis:

• Reduced blood flow to your placenta and baby. 

• Possible reduced movements of and/or stress to baby. 

• Possible infection to baby, hypoxia and acidosis. 

• Possible death of baby whilst in the uterus if slow/no prompt action is taken. 

• Possibility of requiring C-section to expedite the delivery. 

• Possibility of Baby requiring admission to Neonatal Unit for a period. 

Management to improve outcomes: 

• Urgently call your health professional if notice symptoms or go straight to TRIAGE (Maternity A&E) for immediate attention/treatment. 

• Comply with the treatment regime commenced and complete all treatment recommended. 

• Get plenty of rest. 

• Stay well hydrated. 

• Read and inform yourself about the condition and management and take ownership of it.