In simple words: Obstetrical tetanus is an infection that can happen during pregnancy or right after childbirth. It is caused by bacteria called Clostridium tetani that get into wounds or are introduced during unsafe deliveries or abortions.

Obstetrical tetanus refers to an infection typically acquired during pregnancy due to wounds contaminated by toxins of the bacterium Clostridium tetani or shortly after delivery due to nonsterile tools or conditions during delivery or an abortion.

Example 1: A pregnant woman in her third trimester sustains a deep puncture wound while gardening and develops obstetrical tetanus a week later. The wound was contaminated with Clostridium tetani spores. , A woman undergoes a non-sterile abortion procedure performed illegally. The unsanitary conditions introduce Clostridium tetani into the uterus, leading to obstetrical tetanus., A woman delivers a baby at home with the help of a traditional birth attendant who uses contaminated tools. The unsterile delivery results in obstetrical tetanus.

Documentation should include evidence of tetanus infection during pregnancy or within six weeks postpartum, clinical findings such as muscle spasms, stiffness, and difficulty swallowing or breathing, and details of the circumstances leading to the infection (e.g., contaminated wound, unsterile delivery).