Respiratory insufficiency due to pneumonia in pregnancy.

Respiratory insufficiency is a common complication of pneumonia in pregnancy. Respiratory insufficiency may progress to respiratory failure, requiring mechanical ventilation. Prompt diagnosis of the pneumonia and rapid institution of supportive care and effective antimicrobial therapy results in the best possible outcome for both mother and fetus. If the patient requires mechanical ventilation, resolution of the pneumonia usually allows for uneventful weaning from the respirator.