Physiologic changes of pregnancy and considerations for screening and diagnosis of sepsis

Obstetric sepsis is a significant cause of morbidity and mortality in pregnant people worldwide. Initial evaluation and timely intervention are crucial to improving outcomes for birthing persons and their newborns. While many of the therapies and interventions for peripartum sepsis are consistent with the general population, there are considerations unique to pregnancy. Stabilization of the septic pregnant or immediately postpartum patient requires an understanding of the physiologic changes of pregnancy, hemodynamic changes during labor, and infections specific to pregnancy. We will review the interaction between pregnant physiology and sepsis pathophysiology, and how this can guide screening and diagnosis.