O41: Other disorders of amniotic fluid and membranes

O41.1: Infection of amniotic sac and membranes

When the pregnancy begins, the amniotic sac containing the amniotic fluid develops in the womb. The amniotic sac surrounds the child. The placenta forms in the mother’s womb during pregnancy. The placenta consists of cells from the mother and cells from the unborn child. The placenta supplies the unborn child with nutrients and oxygen via the umbilical cord.

An inflammation of the amniotic sac or placenta happens when pathogens enter the uterus. This results in the amniotic sac or placenta becoming inflamed. This kind of inflammation can cause fever. Pathogens entering the blood through the amniotic sac or placenta can cause a person to become seriously ill. An inflammation of the amniotic sac or placenta can trigger contractions.