Brooke-Ashlie A.

I was admitted to the hospital on a Friday for induction, but ended up laboring until Sunday morning with little progress. I was rushed in for an emergency c-section, during which I experienced nausea, shivering, and sweating. (Sepsis and Pregnancy & Childbirth) The doctor immediately ordered a blood culture and started me on antibiotics. The pain was unforgettable.

When the results showed a gram-negative blood infection, the infectious disease physician informed us of the seriousness of the situation and the 50% chance of success with antibiotics. Emotionally overwhelmed, I worried about my children at home and my new baby, fearing for my life. After 10 days of IV antibiotics, I was finally able to go home. However, the experience has left me with PTSD and anxiety.