Maternal sepsis.

Maternal sepsis is relatively common. Most of these infections are the result of tissue damage during labor and delivery and physiologic changes normally occurring during pregnancy. These infections, whether directly pregnancy-related or simply aggravated by normal pregnancy physiology, ultimately have the potential to progress to severe sepsis and septic shock. This article discusses commonly encountered entities and septic shock. The expeditious recognition of common maternal sepsis and meticulous attention to appropriate management to prevent the progression to severe sepsis and septic shock are emphasized. Also discussed are principles and new approaches for the management of septic shock.