Maternal and neonatal tetanus

Tetanus is caused by a toxin made by bacteria entering a wound. In a mother, infection may follow an unclean wound or procedure around childbirth. In a newborn, it can enter through an infected umbilical stump, especially when delivery or cord care is not hygienic. Jaw stiffness, painful muscle spasms, difficulty swallowing, or trouble feeding are warning signs. The infection can interfere with breathing and needs hospital care.

Discuss recommended vaccination during pregnancy or before pregnancy, and make sure the maternity team knows your vaccination history. Choose skilled care for delivery and keep cord care clean and dry according to local clinical advice. If tetanus is suspected, do not treat it at home: hospital teams may give antitoxin, antibiotics, wound care, medicines to control spasms, and breathing support.

Get emergency help immediately for a newborn who stops feeding, becomes stiff, has repeated spasms, or has difficulty breathing. A pregnant or recently delivered person with jaw stiffness, painful spasms, swallowing difficulty, or severe muscle rigidity also needs emergency assessment. Tell clinicians about recent wounds, procedures, delivery conditions, and vaccination if known.

Ask which tetanus vaccine is recommended for you, whether a wound needs additional protection, how the cord should be cared for, and which newborn changes require an ambulance.