P02.7: Fetus and newborn affected by chorioamnionitis

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. Inflammation of the amniotic sac or the placenta can trigger a premature birth. The child is then born before the end of the 37th week of pregnancy. A premature birth can also involve harm to the child's health.

The pathogens can be passed on to the child in the womb and, for example, cause blood poisoning in the child. In a case of blood poisoning, pathogens or their toxins can spread throughout the body via the blood. In a case of blood poisoning, the child's heart may beat more quickly. After the birth, there can be a variety of signs that indicate blood poisoning. For example, the child's breathing may have changed. The body temperature may be lower or higher than usual. The skin may look pale or blueish. There may be a sucking weakness or unusual lethargy.