Sepsis has overtaken VTE as the leading cause of mortality in women in or after pregnancy in the UK. Symptoms of sepsis may be less distinctive than in the non-pregnant population and therefore a high index of suspicion is necessary.

This guide covers the management of sepsis in the puerperium from risk factors to likely sources, presenting symptoms, monitoring, admission to secondary care and neonatal issues. Its application in practice should ensure improved outcomes in sepsis in maternity contexts.