Maternal sepsis is a life-threatening condition that arises when the body’s response to infection causes injury to its own tissues and organs during pregnancy, childbirth, post-abortion or the postpartum period. According to a gynecologist in south Kolkata, if it is untreated or not managed adequately, it can become severe, or result in septic shock, causing organ dysfunction and potentially fatal complications for both the mother and her baby.
What are the symptoms of maternal sepsis?
Some of the symptoms of maternal sepsis is:
- Slurred speech or confusion
- Extreme shivering with muscle pain
- Difficulty in breathing
- Rapid heart rate above 90 beats per minute
- High fever (temperature above 100.4°F) or low body temperature (below 96.8°F)
- Foul smelling vaginal discharge
- Lower abdominal pain
If you observe any of these symptoms during your pregnancy or postpartum period, reach out to a female gyne in South Kolkata for further guidance and treatment.
What are the risk factors?
Some risk factors which increase the risk of developing maternal sepsis are:
- A history of infection or a weak immune system
- Prolonged labour
- Invasive procedures used during childbirth like caesarean delivery, assisted vaginal delivery or episiotomy.
- Placental issues like retained placenta or placenta previa.
- Gestational diabetes
How does maternal sepsis develop?
The most common cause is severe bacterial infection of the uterus during pregnancy or immediately after childbirth. Pregnant women face a slightly higher risk of sepsis due to the immunological changes which naturally occur. Pregnant women who have chronic conditions in one of their organs have a higher chance of developing maternal sepsis.
Is maternal sepsis preventable?
Female gyne in south Kolkata says that there are several ways to prevent and treat maternal sepsis effectively.
- Proper antenatal care: Regular prenatal check ups helps to identify and manage the risk factors and infections at an early stage.
- Proper hygiene: Maintaining proper hygiene during labour and delivery, and use of sterile equipment reduces the risk of infection.
- Antibiotics administration: Gynaecologists prescribe antibiotics depending on the type and severity of the case to prevent sepsis.
- Supporting organs affected by sepsis: Maternal sepsis is a life threatening condition that can cause organ dysfunction. Medications, intravenous fluids and oxygen therapy may be necessary to prevent the malfunction of the organs.
Maternal sepsis is a severe medical condition that requires prompt detection and treatment to ensure the safety of both mother and child. By being aware of the symptoms and risk factors, you can take steps to protect yourself and your baby from this potentially life-threatening complication. Regular prenatal care and open communication with your healthcare provider are crucial in preventing it and ensuring a safe pregnancy journey for the mother and the baby. You must visit a gynaecologist in south Kolkata if you ever face these symptoms so that the sepsis can be detected and treated earlier.