Fatal sepsis associated with an intrauterine device and pregnancy

The 15th case of maternal death associated with sepsis in pregnancy in a patient using the Dalkon Shield intrauterine device is reported. Intrauterine sepsis appears to be a complication of the use of this device. B acteria enter the uterus during pregnancy through the multifilament tail of the device. The management of sepsis during pregnancy associated with an in situ IUD often requires a combined medical and obstetrical approach. The removal of all Dalkon Shields is strongly recomended.