12309 Chorioamnionitis
Informed by recognized medical guidance
Overview
Chorioamnionitis (core-ee-oh-am-nee-oh-NY-tis) is an infection of the amniotic sac — the fluid-filled bag that holds your baby during pregnancy — and the fluid around your baby. It happens when bacteria enter the womb from the vagina. It is a serious condition that needs prompt medical care.
Key facts
- It can happen during labor or after your waters break, and sometimes before labor starts.
- Without prompt treatment, it can cause serious illness in both the pregnant person and their baby.
- Treatment usually involves antibiotics given through a vein and early delivery of your baby.
- With quick care, most mothers and babies recover well.
It affects about 1 to 2 in every 100 pregnancies. It is much more common when the water breaks early (preterm premature rupture of membranes).
It affects pregnant people, especially during labor. The risk is higher with prolonged labor, many vaginal exams, internal fetal monitoring, or if your water has been broken for a long time.
Symptoms
- A very high fever (above 38°C / 100.4°F) that does not come down, along with chills
- Severe abdominal or pelvic pain that is getting worse
- Foul-smelling vaginal discharge or unusual fluid leaking
- A rapid heartbeat, feeling dizzy, confused, or having difficulty breathing (signs of sepsis)
- You notice your baby is moving much less or not at all
- ⚠A mild fever or feeling unwell for more than a few hours
- ⚠New or increasing tenderness in your belly
- ⚠Concern that your waters may have broken early
- ⚠Any abnormal vaginal discharge or odor
Common symptoms
- Fever (a temperature of 100.4°F / 38°C or higher)
- Chills and a general feeling of being unwell
- A fast heartbeat in the mother or baby
- A tender or painful womb (uterus)
- A foul-smelling or cloudy vaginal discharge
- Amniotic fluid that is noticeably different in color or smell
Symptoms in children
- This infection affects the pregnant person, not children or babies directly. However, after birth, the baby may need extra checks or treatment for infection if the mother has chorioamnionitis.
Symptoms in older adults
- This condition is specific to pregnancy and does not affect older adults.
Causes
Main causes
- Bacteria such as group B streptococcus (GBS) or E. coli get into the amniotic sac from the vagina or through spread through the bloodstream.
- Once inside, they multiply in the amniotic fluid and cause infection.
Risk factors
- Your water breaks before labor starts, especially if labor doesn't follow within 24 hours
- Prolonged labor (lasting a long time, especially after water breaks)
- Many vaginal examinations during labor
- Use of internal fetal monitors (instruments placed inside the womb)
- You have a sexually transmitted infection or untreated vaginal infection
- You are under 21 years old (increased risk)
- You have a weakened immune system
When to see a doctor
See a doctor urgently if:
- Call your midwife, obstetrician, or doctor the moment you have a fever, chills, or a painful womb at any point in pregnancy.
- If your waters break early (before 37 weeks) or if you think your waters have broken, go to the hospital for assessment.
Book a routine appointment if:
- Keep all prenatal appointments so your healthcare team can check for signs of infection and other problems earlier.
- If you have risk factors like group B strep, follow your provider's plan for antibiotics during labor.
Diagnosis
A doctor or midwife will check your temperature, heart rate, and feel your tummy. If they suspect chorioamnionitis, they will run tests. You will usually be cared for in a hospital so both you and your baby can be monitored closely.
Tests that may be done
- Blood tests to check for signs of infection
- A test of your amniotic fluid (sample taken through the vagina or from the womb)
- A urine test
- Monitoring your baby's heart rate and movement
- Sometimes an ultrasound to check the baby
What to expect at your appointment
In the hospital, your vital signs and your baby's heart rate will be tracked continuously. Treatment often begins quickly, even before test results are back. If chorioamnionitis is confirmed, your baby will likely be delivered as soon as safely possible.
Treatment
The main treatments are antibiotics given through a vein (intravenous) and delivering the baby, because the infection cannot resolve until the placenta and amniotic sac are no longer present. Your healthcare team will decide the safest timing and way for delivery based on your condition and the baby's age and health.
Self-care at home
- Go to the hospital promptly if symptoms develop; do not try to treat it at home
- Rest and drink fluids if you are being monitored at home before delivery
- Follow the care plan from your maternity team at all times
Medical treatments
Antibiotics are given through a drip (IV) as soon as possible. You may also receive fluids and medication to lower a fever. After birth, the baby may need antibiotics for observation and treatment. The baby's pediatric team will evaluate whether extra care is needed.
When is surgery considered?
If the infection is severe or delivery needs to happen quickly, your doctor might recommend an assisted delivery (using forceps or vacuum) or a caesarean section. In some cases, a caesarean is needed to protect both you and your baby.
Living with this condition
After discharge, you will need to rest and pay close attention to your recovery. Watch for fever, worsening belly pain, or unusual discharge, and contact your doctor if these appear. Your baby may need follow-up appointments to make sure they stay healthy.
Lifestyle tips
- Use sanitary pads rather than tampons until your doctor says it’s safe
- Avoid swimming pools, hot tubs, baths (unless discussed with your doctor) and do not have sex until you’re cleared
- Wash your hands before touching your perineal area or changing pads to avoid spreading bacteria
Diet and exercise
Eat a balanced diet and drink plenty of water to help your body heal. Gentle exercise like walking is usually fine once your provider approves, but avoid strenuous activities until you feel ready.
Mental health and emotional wellbeing
An infection during labor can be overwhelming. It's normal to feel anxious, scared, or worried about your baby. Talk to your midwife, doctor, or a counselor about how you are feeling. You are not alone.
Prevention
Not always, but you can lower your risk by keeping good hygiene, limiting unnecessary vaginal exams during labor, avoiding prolonged labor delays, and treating infections early. If your waters break, it is important to deliver within a safe time window as advised by your provider.
Vaccines
Stay up to date on vaccinations that prevent infections like flu and whooping cough, as these help protect your overall health, though they do not directly prevent chorioamnionitis.
Screening programmes
Routine tests for group B strep in later pregnancy can identify women who should receive antibiotics during labor to reduce the chance of infection in the baby.
Complications
If left untreated
- Sepsis (a life-threatening whole-body infection) in the mother
- Uterine (womb) infection after delivery
- Infection in the baby, including blood infection (sepsis), pneumonia, or meningitis
- Preterm birth and complications related to premature birth
- In rare cases, very serious infection can cause stillbirth
Long-term outlook
With prompt treatment and careful monitoring, the outlook is very good. Most mothers recover fully after delivery, and most babies do well, especially when the baby is born at a late preterm or full term stage. Even if born early, neonatal teams are experienced in caring for babies exposed to infection.
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Always verify with your doctor
Health guidelines vary by country and region. The information in this article is based on international clinical guidelines but may not reflect the specific guidelines, medications, or practices in your country. Always discuss your health concerns with your own doctor or healthcare provider, and refer to your local national health guidelines where available.
Important notice This information is for educational purposes only. It does not replace professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider about your specific situation. If you are experiencing a medical emergency, call your local emergency services immediately.
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Sources and guidance
This article is educational and is prepared with reference to recognized health information and clinical guidance sources where available. Specific source links may vary by topic.
Last updated: July 31, 2026
Educational note: This information is for education only and is not a diagnosis.
Use it to support, not replace, advice from a licensed clinician.
If symptoms are severe, worsening, or urgent, call your local emergency number or seek emergency care.