Inflammation of the amnion and chorion

Inflammation of the amnion and chorion was found forty-eight times in one thousand consecutive placentas. Taken as an evidence of infection, its presence indicates that in nearly all cases of intrapartum fever (not due to intercurrent conditions) there has been entrance of bacteria into the uterus. On the other hand, the absence of temperature elevation does not mean that bacterial invasion has not occurred. Intrapartum infection is an indication for acceleration of delivery in the interests of both mother and child; but its presence, as indicated by inflammation of the amnion and chorion, may often be unsuspected in the absence of fever. The increased incidence of inflammation with prolonged labor, vaginal examinations, and especially premature rupture of the membranes confirms previous impressions as to the increased danger of cesarean section under such circumstances, regardless of the presence or not of fever.