Also known as intra-amniotic infection
Bacterial infection of fetal amnion and chorion membranes
Most commonly an ascending infection from normal vaginal flora
Young age
Low socioeconomic status
Multiple vaginal examinations
Nulliparity
Extended duration of labor and ruptured membranes
Pre-existing genital tract infections
Polymicrobial
Genital mycoplasmas, anaerobes, enteric gram-negative bacilli and group B strep
Chorioamnionitis
The same abdominal pain differential as non-pregnant patients, plus:
Septic abortion
Ectopic pregnancy
Postpartum endometritis
First trimester abortion
Preterm labor
Complete abortion