Staphylococcus Infections in Pregnancy: Maternal and Neonatal Risks

Abstract

Staphylococcus aureus is carried by up to one third of the general population; about 2% are carriers for methicillin-resistant S. aureus (MRSA). Infections caused by the antibiotic-resistant form include skin and soft tissue infections, as well as pneumonia, sepsis, and wound infections. Although the risks of hospital-associated systemic infections have decreased with attention to infection control procedures, serious obstetric illness remains a concern. This article describes the range of MRSA infection in the setting of pregnancy and discusses risks to both mother and newborn associated with active MRSA infection during pregnancy and childbirth. Methicillin-resistant S. aureus remains a risk to mothers and newborns, requiring prompt identification and appropriate management.