The Particulars: Sepsis is one of the leading causes of death in pregnant or postpartum women worldwide. However, the number of women affected by sepsis in the United States remains unknown.
Data Breakdown: In a study, a database representing 44 million patients was analyzed to determine the incidence, severity, number of related deaths, and risk factors for sepsis over 11 years. Results revealed that one in 3,300 hospitalizations for childbirth was complicated by sepsis. One in 10,000 deliveries was complicated by sepsis and led to organ system dysfunction. The authors also found that one in 100,000 women would die from sepsis during hospitalization for childbirth.
Take Home Pearls: The incidence of sepsis appears to be relatively high among women hospitalized for childbirth. Precautions should be taken to avoid infections among these patients.
