What can cause a high fever and an elevated heart rate during labor?

Infection: The obstetrician will react accordingly. This could signal an intrauterine infection. The pediatrician will also evaluate once baby is born.

Chorio, epidural.: Chorioamnionitis (intrauterine infection) or central hyperthermia from epidural anesthesia are the two likely culprits. Other rare possibilities: pyelonephritis, infected intravenotus line. In any case, fever during labor is not welcome and prompt action should be undertaken to hasten delivery while notifying neonatology for further evaluation and management.