Chorioamnionitisoccurs when bacteria infect the organs and membranes surrounding the fetus andamniotic fluidduring pregnancy.
Its estimated that chorioamnionitis affects about 1% to 5% of term deliveries and about one-third ofpreterm deliveries.
Chorioamnionitis is often brought on by bacteria found in the vagina.
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Once suspected, it is treated with antibiotics right away.
This article will provide an overview of chorioamnionitis, including the symptoms, causes, and treatment options.
Symptoms of Chorioamnionitis
The symptoms of chorioamnionitis can vary and usually include maternal fever.
It is often due to bacteria that are normally found in the vagina.
When the bacteria travel into the amniotic sac, an infection can occur.
The diagnostic process usually starts with a physical exam and thorough history.
Your healthcare provider may diagnose chorioamnionitis from symptoms alone.
It involves using a needle to remove a small amount of amniotic fluid for testing.
Its important to call your healthcare provider any time your temperature is at or above 100.4 degrees.
Other symptoms include uterine pain, fast heartbeat, pus in cervical drainage, and foul-smelling amniotic fluid drainage.
Starting antibiotics early decreases the risk of serious illness in the baby.
Risks include neonatalbacteremia(bacteria in the bloodstream),pneumonia, sepsis, and death.
Treatment with antibiotics also lowers the risk of maternal complications and length of hospital stay.
A combination ofpenicillinand Gentak (gentamicin) is usually used to treat chorioamnionitis.
Always call your healthcare provider if you are concerned about any new or ongoing symptoms.
Summary
Chorioamnionitis is an infection and inflammation of the placenta, chorion, and amnion during pregnancy.
This condition is not common but serious.
Chorioamnionitis needs to be treated with antibiotics right away.
Possible risks to the baby include respiratory distress syndrome, pneumonia, meningitis, sepsis, and death.
Its important to remember that early treatment with antibiotics effectively lowers the risk of complications.
Frequently Asked Questions
Chorioamnionitis is associated with preterm labor.
Its estimated that chorioamnionitis complicates up to one-third of preterm labor cases.
Chorioamnionitis is a serious infection that needs to be treated right away.
If you have developed a fever, call your healthcare provider.
Other symptoms include pelvic pain, fast heartbeat, pus in cervical drainage, and foul-smelling amniotic fluid drainage.
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Stanford Childrens Health.Chorioamnionitis.
American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists.Intrapartum management of intraamniotic infection.
