Statement on Maternal Sepsis

In April 2016, WHO convened an expert consultation to discuss, develop and propose a new global definition for maternal sepsis. A multidisciplinary international panel of 48 experts was surveyed through an online and in-person consultation in March–April 2016 for their opinion on the new definition of sepsis proposed for the adult population and the importance of different criteria for identification of maternal sepsis. The new maternal sepsis definition reads as follows: maternal sepsis is a life-threatening condition defined as organ dysfunction resulting from infection during pregnancy, childbirth, post-abortion, or postpartum period.

The operationalization of the new maternal sepsis definition guides providers to focus on actionable elements such as the administration of antibiotics and fluids, and support of vital organ functions.