Gonorrhea complicating the puerperium

This code signifies a diagnosis of gonorrhea occurring during the puerperium, the period following childbirth. It indicates an active gonococcal infection impacting the mother's health during her postpartum recovery.

Apply this code when documentation confirms a diagnosis of gonorrhea in a patient who is within the 42-day postpartum period. This includes infections affecting the genital tract, pharynx, or rectum, provided the onset or diagnosis occurs during the puerperium.

• Always sequence this code as a secondary diagnosis, following the code for the specific manifestation of gonorrhea (e.g., A54.00 for gonococcal infection of lower genitourinary tract).
• Ensure documentation clearly states the diagnosis of gonorrhea and its occurrence within the puerperal period.
• Do not use this code for gonorrhea diagnosed during pregnancy (O98.21) or for a history of gonorrhea without active infection.