You can die from chorioamnionitis and your newborn is at risk too. Chorioamnionitis is an infection that you can endure during your pregnancy that can cause complications that can lead to death. Chorioamnionitis is not treatable; however, there are actions your medical team can take to avoid serious complications.
How Chorioamnionitis Can Cause Maternal and Newborn Death
Chorioamnionitis occurs when bacteria normally found in the vagina leaks up the urinary tract system into the uterus. It often happens when the amniotic sac, or water, breaks. It can then infect the placenta and amniotic fluid surrounding your baby. The longer the infection is left untreated, the worse the condition can get and cause life-threatening complications.
A dangerous blood infection, known as bacteremia, is commonly associated with chorioamnionitis. It is often diagnosed in the mother that can have lethal outcomes. Sepsis can develop from bacteremia. It is an inflammatory response to an infection that also produces blood clots in the body. When this occurs, blood is unable to flow properly through the body causing swelling in vital organs. This can lead to death. The mother and fetus are both at risk for sepsis with the presence of chorioamnionitis.
Additionally, chorioamnionitis often results in preterm labor and delivery. Babies delivered early have an increased risk of dying because they are not fully formed, especially the lungs. The lungs and respiratory system are one of the last things to fully develop. Bleeding in the brain is often a complication with preterm labor as well.
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Additional Complications That May Result from Chorioamnionitis
Although chorioamnionitis can cause death, it is not a death sentence. It can result in other serious issues though. On the other hand, if the condition is handled and managed swiftly, serious problems may be prevented altogether. Likewise, your physician or medical team may be able to prevent chorioamnionitis based on the risk factors you present and how they act upon them.
For example, if your water broke hours prior and you still are not in labor, your doctor may likely induce labor or recommend a C-section.
Complications deriving from chorioamnionitis for mother and baby can include:
- Respiratory issues
- Meningitis
- Brain damage
- Pneumonia
- Developmental delays
- Digestive issues
- Organ dysfunction
Be aware of the damage chorioamnionitis causes as it runs deep. These complications can be life-changing. They can be costly as well. The costs associated with chorioamnionitis and the complications you may face can be monetary and non-monetary. This means it can be financially devastating and emotionally challenging as well, especially if it changes your family dynamic.
Consequences you or your child may face from the complications of chorioamnionitis may include:
- High hospital bills
- Multiple surgeries
- Lasting treatment and management plans
- Ongoing counseling
- Continuous medication
- Developmental therapist
- Early death
- Chronic pain
Not all chorioamnionitis cases result in severe consequences. If the condition is properly managed, there is a chance that you and your baby can have favorable outcomes.
Preventing Complications from Chorioamnionitis
Your doctor and medical team may not be able to stop chorioamnionitis from happening; however, if it does happen, they can take measures that can prevent serious complications. Be mindful that not all options are for everyone. Your age, general health, and symptoms may play a factor. Your doctor will be able to explain this in further detail to you.
When there is a diagnosis of chorioamnionitis, antibiotics are often prescribed. Antibiotics may reduce the infection or keep it at bay. It can also help to prevent chorioamnionitis from the beginning if your water breaks early.
On top of taking antibiotics, you may also be limited vaginal exams. This can reduce the chance of more bacteria released into the urinary tract and heightening infection. Your doctor may offer an alternative way for vaginal exams to keep track of the progression of your baby and pregnancy.
Most commonly recommended in cases of chorioamnionitis is to induce labor, according to Cleveland Clinic. This may depend on how far along you are in your pregnancy and if the condition is severe. Giving birth to a premature baby has its own set of problems, which can also include death. In fact, 17% of premature births as well as low birth weight are fatal, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). So make sure you understand the process and the possible outcomes.
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Contact Us Today if You Believe Medical Malpractice Caused Complications from Chorioamnionitis
You and your baby can die from chorioamnionitis complications if the condition is not swiftly managed properly. If this or another injury occurred, you may be able to seek compensation. A lawyer can review your case and determine if your doctor failed to provide you with a standard duty of care. Contact a legal member at the Birth Injury Lawyers Group to schedule a free consultation at (800) 222-9529.
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