childbed fever, historic term for progressive infection of the fetal membranes and amniotic fluid to the uterus and beyond, which was a common cause of postpartum maternal death. With modern antibiotic therapy maternal death is rare although there is considerable maternal morbidity. Its incidence is increased with premature spontaneous rupture of membranes (PSROM), prolonged labor, and preterm labor. Now called puerperal fever. See also premature rupture of membranes, chorioamnionitis.
