What typically causes neonatal sepsis?

Neonatal sepsis is a serious condition that arises from infections in newborns, typically within the first 28 days of life. The primary causes are often linked to the conditions that can influence the availability of infectious pathogens to a newborn.

One of the most significant contributors to neonatal sepsis is PROM (premature rupture of membranes). When the membranes rupture before labor begins, it can expose the fetus to the maternal vaginal flora, increasing the risk of infection, especially if there is a prolonged interval between rupture and delivery. This exposure is critical because bacteria that inhabit the mother's vagina can ascend into the amniotic fluid, leading to infection of the fetus.

Intrauterine infections also play a role in neonatal sepsis, but they are often considered a consequence of conditions like PROM. While congenital heart defects and maternal diabetes can complicate a newborn’s health, they are not direct causes of neonatal sepsis. Therefore, the association of PROM with increased risk of infections that can lead to neonatal sepsis is a crucial understanding for improving perinatal outcomes.