FIGO highlights critical new guidance published in the International Journal of Gynaecology and Obstetrics on preventing post-caesarean sepsis, a leading cause of maternal mortality. The comprehensive review comes at a crucial time when sepsis accounts for 75,000 maternal deaths annually in low-income countries, with post-caesarean infection rates ranging from 2.5% to 20.5% globally. Key prevention strategiesThe paper emphasises that most cases of post-caesarean sepsis can be prevented through evidence-based measures. Prophylactic antibiotics administered 30-60 minutes before skin incision can reduce serious maternal sepsis by 70%. This paper provides clear, evidence-based guidance on preventing one of its most serious complications - post-caesarean sepsis - which occurs at a much higher rate than after vaginal delivery.