Neonatal infection may also be associated with premature rupture of membranes ( breakage of the amniotic sac ) which substantially increases the risk of neonatal sepsis by allowing passage for bacteria to enter the womb prior to the birth of the infant.
12.
A co-author, Dr . Vern Katz, an obstetrician now specializing in maternal-fetal medicine at Sacred Heart Medical Center in Eugene, Ore ., said, " We are finding more and more that the chemicals released in response to infection can lead to changes in the timing of birth and to premature rupture of membranes, " precipitating preterm labor and delivery.
