Childbed fever
Childbed fever is an infection of the womb in new mothers which can lead to septicaemia.
If you think it is a disease of the past, you're wrong.
Childbed fever infections are rare, but they can happen to anybody, and can be fatal: 14% of maternal deaths are due to septicaemia.
The symptoms of infection are usually easy to recognise and, if caught at an early stage, generally respond well to antibiotics.
But if left untreated infection will cause organ failure and death - even in young, fit mothers.
More about childbed fever »
What are the symptoms? »
Information for parents »
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please, make sure you're aware
of the symptoms, and the importance of prompt treatmentWhat's the aim?
We would like every parent and every midwife and doctor to know that childbed fever is still a very real threat to a mother's life.
In the same way that every parent knows the danger of Meningitis, we believe that parents should be told about sepsis and childbed fever in ante natal classes and at the point of post natal discharge.
Please spare a minute
Please help us with our campaign by completing our quick Awareness Survey.Who is Jessica?
Jessica Palmer was a Mum.
She died in June 2004, at 34 years old, of childbed fever caused by Group A streptococcus, six days after the uncomplicated birth of her second child.
Jessica's story could save another Mum's life and prevent another family's heartache and pain.
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This website contains general information about childbed fever. The information is not complete or comprehensive. You should not rely on the information on this website as an alternative to medical advice from your doctor or healthcare provider. If you have any specific questions about childbed fever (or any other medical condition) you should consult your doctor or other healthcare provider; and if you think you may be suffering from childbed fever (or any other medical condition) you should seek immediately medical attention. You should never delay seeking medical advice, disregard medical advice, or discontinue medical treatment because of information on this website.