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Introduction: Induction of labor is a common procedure, and in Denmark, approximately one in four vaginal deliveries are induced. The association between induction and maternal postpartum infections such as endometritis, surgical site infection after cesarean section, urinary tract infection, and sepsis has been sparsely investigated. Our objective was to investigate the association between induction of labor and risk of maternal postpartum infection and to identify potential risk factors for infection., Material and Methods: In a nationwide cohort study, all deliveries with live-born singletons from January 1, 2007, to December 31, 2017 (n = 546 864) were included. Deliveries were grouped into categories of spontaneous onset of labor, induction of labor, and elective cesarean section. The primary outcome was any infection within 30 days postpartum based on discharge diagnosis codes and redeemed antibiotic prescriptions for endometritis, surgical site infection, urinary tract infection, and sepsis. Analyses were done using logistic regression., Results: Infection within 30 days postpartum was found among 8.5% of the women undergoing induction of labor compared to 6.8% of the women with spontaneous onset of labor. In adjusted logistic regression analyses, the risk of postpartum infection was significantly increased after induction of labor compared to spontaneous onset of labor (adjusted ORs [aOR], 1.24; 95% confidence interval [CI], 1.21-1.27). Women with rupture of membranes were not at increased risk of postpartum infection (aOR 1.01; 95%CI 0.94-1.09). The risk of postpartum maternal sepsis was not significantly associated with induction of labor. Antibiotic treatment during pregnancy, pre-eclampsia, and long education were all associated with increased risk of maternal postpartum infection, while either a low or high body mass index and previous deliveries were associated with decreased risk., Conclusions: Induction of labor was associated with an increased risk of maternal postpartum infection. However, the absolute risk was 1.7% higher for the women with induced labor compared to spontaneous onset of labor, which we believe should not be a cause for concern. Unexpectedly, low and high body mass index was associated with decreased risk of infection, and rupture of membranes was not associated with increased risk after induction of labor, which might reflect actual clinical management., (© 2024 The Author(s). Acta Obstetricia et Gynecologica Scandinavica published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd on behalf of Nordic Federation of Societies of Obstetrics and Gynecology (NFOG).) more...

Purpose: To investigate the risk factors for Caesarean Scar Diverticulum (CSD) with Chronic Endometritis (CE) and the correlation between CE and clinical symptoms of CSD., Methods: The frequency of CE in 44 patients with CSD who underwent surgical treatment and 20 control women who underwent total hysterectomy was assessed and the clinical symptoms in the presence and absence of CE were compared. In accordance with the presence of one or more CD138-positive plasma cells per high-power field, CE was classified as mild or severe group., Results: According to multivariate analysis, the presence of mild CE (OR 8.963, 95 % CI 2.177-36.907, p = 0.002) or severe CE (OR 21.773, 95 % CI 2.285-207.419, p = 0.007) was significantly associated with CSD. Mild CE (OR 12.390, 95 % CI 1.158-132.511, p = 0.037) or severe CE (OR 22.463, 95 % CI 1.657-304.541, P = 0.019) or depth of diverticulum (OR 1.294, 95 % CI 1.003-1.668, p = 0.047) was associated with prolonged menstruation in patients with CSD. The degree of CE in patients with CSD was positively correlated with the days of prolonged menstruation (r = 0.552, p < 0.001) and negatively correlated with haemoglobin level (r = -0.408, p = 0.038)., Conclusions: CE was associated with CSD and its clinical symptoms, including prolonged menstruation and decreased haemoglobin. The severity of clinical symptoms of CSD is associated with endometrial inflammation., Competing Interests: Declaration of Competing Interest The authors have no relevant financial or non-financial interests to disclose., (Copyright © 2024 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.) more...

Rationale: Retained placenta is a potentially life-threatening condition because of its association with postpartum haemorrhage. Manual removal of the placenta increases the likelihood of infectious complications of the uterine cavity. So, prophylactic antibiotics are recommended by some experts, and commonly administered to reduce these risks. However, the evidence supporting this decision is limited. This review aims to assess the effectiveness of prophylactic antibiotics for manual removal of retained placenta after vaginal birth., Objectives: To compare the effectiveness and adverse effects of routine prophylactic antibiotics for the manual removal of placenta after vaginal birth. To identify appropriate prophylactic antibiotic regimens., Search Methods: For this update, we searched CENTRAL, MEDLINE, Embase, CINAHL, and two trials registries, in addition to screening the reference lists of retrieved studies and systematic reviews. The last search was 14 May 2024., Eligibility Criteria: All randomised controlled trials and non-randomised studies comparing prophylactic antibiotics to no treatment or to another prophylactic antibiotic to prevent postpartum endometritis after manual removal of placenta after vaginal birth., Outcomes: The critical outcome in our review was postpartum endometritis. Other important outcomes were puerperal morbidity, perineal infection, duration of hospital stay, sepsis, any infection, blood loss, postpartum haemorrhage, secondary postpartum haemorrhage, readmission to hospital, adverse effects of the drugs, women's satisfaction, and neonatal outcomes, such as jaundice, sepsis, neonatal intensive care unit admission, et cetera., Risk of Bias: The risk of bias was assessed at the outcome level. We used the Risk of Bias in Non-Randomised Studies of Interventions (ROBINS-I) tool to assess the risk of bias in non-randomised studies., Synthesis Methods: We carried out statistical analysis using Review Manager. We used a fixed-effect meta-analysis to synthesise the results, and GRADE to assess the certainty of the evidence., Included Studies: We included four retrospective cohort studies with a total of 974 participants. Studies were conducted in Germany, Bulgaria, Norway, and Israel, between 1983 and 2017., Synthesis of Results: Prophylactic antibiotics versus no antibiotics was the only comparison in our analysis. Postpartum endometritis We do not know whether prophylactic antibiotics have an impact on postpartum endometritis (risk ratio (RR) 0.94, 95% confidence interval (CI) 0.48 to 1.85; 4 studies, 974 participants; very low-certainty evidence). Postpartum haemorrhage The evidence suggests that prophylactic antibiotics may result in little to no difference in postpartum haemorrhage (RR 1.00, 95% CI 0.78 to 1.29; 1 study, 325 participants; low-certainty evidence). Neonatal intensive care unit admission (NICU) The evidence suggests that prophylactic antibiotics may result in little to no difference in NICU admission of the neonate (RR 0.86, 95% CI 0.29 to 2.61; 1 study, 353 participants; low-certainty evidence). There were no data available for other important outcomes, including puerperal morbidity, perineal infection, duration of hospital stay, sepsis, any infection, blood loss, secondary postpartum haemorrhage, readmission to hospital, adverse effects of drugs, women's satisfaction, or neonatal outcomes of jaundice or sepsis., Authors' Conclusions: There is very uncertain evidence supporting the use of prophylactic antibiotics for manual removal of placenta for preventing postpartum endometritis. The evidence suggests that prophylactic antibiotics result in little to no difference in postpartum haemorrhage or admission to a neonatal intensive care unit. There were no available data on other important outcomes. Multicentre, randomised controlled trials comparing antibiotic prophylaxis and placebo or no antibiotic, or one antibiotic and another, for manual removal of placenta in vaginal birth are needed to provide more robust evidence., Funding: This systematic review received support from the UNDP-UNFPA-UNICEF-WHO-World Bank Special Programme of Research, Development and Research Training in Human Reproduction (HRP)., Registration: Protocol and previous versions are available at https://10.1002/14651858.CD004904.pub3., (Copyright © 2024 The Cochrane Collaboration. Published by John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.) more...

There is limited research on risk factors for chronic endometritis regarding reproductive history and clinical symptoms. Thus, this nested case-control study identified risk factors for chronic endometritis in women who have undergone hysteroscopy. Endometrial tissue sections were obtained from 502 women with intrauterine disorders who underwent hysteroscopy. Chronic endometritis was diagnosed via CD138 immunostaining. The women were divided into two groups: 271 women without chronic endometritis and 231 women with chronic endometritis. The prevalence of chronic endometritis was 46%. Univariate logistic regression revealed that prolonged menstruation and intermenstrual bleeding were associated with chronic endometritis, and subsequent multivariate logistic regression analyses showed that these were further independently associated. With univariable logistic regression, the gravidity and abortion history were correlated with chronic endometritis; however, no significant correlation was found with the adjusted odds ratio (OR) of 0.74 (95% confidence interval [CI] 0.46-1.19) or 0.76 (95% CI 0.58-1.11), respectively. No significant correlation was found between caesarean section history and the rates of chronic endometritis. No significant difference was found in all other variables between the three groups with > 5, ≤ 5 plasma cells and in a unknown group. Prolonged menstruation and intermenstrual bleeding were risk factors associated with chronic endometritis. Chronic endometritis should be considered and CD138 immunohistochemical examination should be recommended in women with these symptoms., (© 2024. The Author(s).) more...

Objectives: To assess the (i) predictors of and associated rates of success and; (ii) maternal and perinatal outcomes of women undergoing trial of labour after two previous caesarean sections (TOLA2C)., Study Design: This retrospective cohort study collected data from two regional obstetric centres with 12,000 deliveries per annum collectively. The population included singleton pregnancies undergoing (i) TOLA2C, (ii) elective repeat caesarean section following two caesarean sections (ERCS) and (iii) trial of labour after one caesarean section (TOLA1C). Data was collected electronically from 2013 to 2021. Statistical analysis included Fisher exact and Kruskal-Wallis test to compare unpaired samples alongside univariate and multivariable logistic regression. The primary outcome measure was maternal and perinatal outcome., Results: The three groups included; n = 146 TOLA2C, n = 206 ERCS and n = 99 TOLA1C. TOLA2C had a success rate of 65 % compared to 74 % for TOLA1C (p = 0.16). The optimal predictor of successful TOLA2C was previous successful TOLA1C OR 8.65 (95 % CI 2.75-38.41). TOLA2C was associated with greater risk of endometritis and/or sepsis postnatally compared to the other two groups [10.3 % (n = 15) versus 0.5 % (n = 1) and 3 % (n = 3) for ERCS and TOLA1C respectively p < 0.01]. It was also associated with longer maternal hospital stay [2.4 days (+/-1.8) versus 1.8 (+/-0.8) and 1.8 (+/-1.7) p < 0.01], a greater proportion of neonates with Apgar scores less than 7 (p=<0.01) and higher rates of neonatal unit admission [14 % (n = 20) versus 5 % (n = 11) versus 4 % (n = 4) (p=<0.01)]., Conclusion: Women considering trial of labour following two caesarean sections should be counselled regarding the potential increased risk of endometritis, sepsis and adverse neonatal outcome., Competing Interests: Declaration of competing interest The authors declare that they have no known competing financial interests or personal relationships that could have appeared to influence the work reported in this paper., (Copyright © 2024 The Authors. Published by Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.) more...

Background: To investigate the impact of chronic endometritis (CE) on the recurrence of endometrial polyps (EPs) in premenopausal women after transcervical resection of endometrial polyps (TCRP)., Methods: This prospective study enrolled 507 women who underwent TCRP between January 1, 2022 and December 31, 2022. The patients were divided into a CE group (n = 133) and non-CE group (n = 374) based on the expression of CD138 in the endometrium. The EP recurrence rate at 1 year after TCRP was compared between the CE and non-CE groups and between groups with mild CE and severe CE. The impact of CD138 expression by resected EPs on EP recurrence also was investigated., Results: The EP recurrence rate at 1 year post-TCRP was higher in the CE group than in the non-CE group (25.6% vs. 10.4%) and also higher in the severe CE group than in the mild CE group (34.5% vs. 18.7%). Additionally, the EP recurrence rate was higher among patients with CD138-expressing EPs than among those with EPs lacking CD138 expression (30.5% vs. 6.5%). The odds ratio (OR) for EP recurrence in the CE cohort compared with the non-CE cohort was 3.10 (95% confidence interval [CI] 1.84-5.23) after adjustment for EP number and precautions against EP recurrence. The ORs for EP recurrence in patients with mild CE and severe CE were 2.21 (95%CI 1.11-4.40) and 4.32 (95%CI 2.26-8.26), respectively. Similarly, the OR for EP recurrence in cases with CD138-expressing EPs relative to cases with EPs lacking CD138 expression was 6.22 (95%CI 3.59-10.80) after adjustment for EP number and precautions against EP recurrence., Conclusions: CE multiplied the recurrence rate of EPs in premenopausal women after TCRP, and this effect positively correlated with CE severity. CD138 expression by EPs also was associated with a higher risk for EP recurrence., (© 2024. The Author(s).) more...

Background: Mastitis-metritis-agalactia (MMA) syndrome occurs in the first days post-partum and causes piglet losses mainly due to malnutrition. One possibility for prophylaxis of MMA is via homeopathy. In this veterinary study, the effectiveness of a prophylactic administration of homeopathic remedies for the prevention of the occurrence of MMA in swine was evaluated., Methods: In a randomised and blinded study, 60 sows were examined. Sows were randomly distributed in two groups: the experimental group (CL/LL) received a prophylactic administration of the complex homeopathic remedies Caulophyllum Logoplex and Lachesis Logoplex , and the placebo group was administered a sodium chloride (NaCl) solution in the same injection scheme as the experimental group. Clinical signs of MMA, behavioural changes, as well as production parameters, were recorded beginning with the day of farrowing until 5 days post-partum., Results: The treatment group showed no significant effect on the occurrence of MMA in sows (CL/LL: 56.67% MMA positive sows; NaCl: 53.53% MMA positive sows). Treatment group had also no significant effect on health parameters (vaginal discharge, raised rectal temperature, shortage of milk) or behavioural parameters (impaired feeding behaviour and impaired general condition). For the production parameter average weight gain, statistically significant effects in the treatment group were detected., Conclusions: Prophylaxis with the homeopathic remedies Caulophyllum Logoplex and Lachesis Logoplex showed neither an improvement in MMA prevention nor an improvement in health parameters or behavioural traits in the present herd of sows., Competing Interests: None declared., (Faculty of Homeopathy. This article is published by Thieme.) more...

Objective: To evaluate whether induction of labor is associated with lower risk of cesarean section compared to expectant management in patients with isolated polyhydramnios., Study Design: This is a single-center, retrospective cohort study of patients with pregnancies complicated by idiopathic polyhydramnios, documented between 34 and 38 weeks gestation, who were delivered between July 2012 and February 2020. The primary outcome was cesarean delivery. Secondary outcomes included chorioamnionitis, endometritis, postpartum hemorrhage, preeclampsia/gestational hypertension, and composite neonatal morbidity., Results: There were 194 patients included with idiopathic polyhydramnios - 115 underwent induction and 79 patients were expectantly managed. Planned induction was associated with a lower rate of CD compared with expectant management but did not meet statistical significance (19.1 % vs 30.4 %, aOR 0.51, 95 % CI 0.24, 1.05). A similar effect was seen when stratifying for parity: both nulliparous (9.1 % vs 16.3 %, aOR 0.59, 95 % CI 0.17, 1.98) and multiparous (32.7 % vs 47.2 %, aOR 0.45, 95 % CI 0.18, 1.15) patients had a lower CD rate when there was a planned induction, though neither group met statistical significance. No differences in maternal or fetal secondary outcomes were identified (chorioamnionitis, endometritis, postpartum hemorrhage, preeclampsia/gestational hypertension, composite neonatal morbidity)., Conclusion: Lower rates of cesarean section were associated with labor induction for patients with isolated polyhydramnios, but confidence intervals did not reach statistical significance., Competing Interests: Declaration of Competing Interest The authors declare that they have no known competing financial interests or personal relationships that could have appeared to influence the work reported in this paper., (Copyright © 2023 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.) more...

Objective: Aim: To determine the current prevalence of endometritis after hysteroscopic procedures and antimicrobial resistance of responsible pathogens in Ukraine., Patients and Methods: Materials and Methods: Multicenter prospective cohort study was conducted from January 2020 to December 2022 in fifteen hospitals from twelve regions of Ukraine. Definitions of endometritis were adapted from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention's National Healthcare Safety Network. Antibiotic susceptibility was done by the disc diffusion test as recommended by EUCAST., Results: Results: Among 13,872 patients with hysteroscopic procedures, 1027 (7.4%) endometritis were observed. Of these cases, 0.4% were detected after diagnostic hysteroscopy, and 7.0% were detected after operative hysteroscopy. Of all endometritis cases, 64.2% were detected after hospital discharge. The most commonly reported bacterial species were Escherichia coli (24.3%), followed by Enterobacter spp. (12.7%), Enterococcus spp. (8.3%), Pseudomonas aeruginosa (8.1%), Serratia marcescens (6.8%), Staphylococcus aureus (5.9%), Proteus mirabilis (5.8%), Klebsiella oxytoca (5.1%), Stenotrophomonas maltophilia (4.5%), Klebsiella pneumoniae (4.1%). A significant proportion of patients were affected by endometritis caused by bacteria developed resistance to several antimicrobials, varying widely depending on the bacterial species, antimicrobial group, and geographical region of Ukraine., Conclusion: Conclusions: Our data suggest a high prevalence of endometritis after hysteroscopic procedures. Risk for endometritis was higher after operative hysteroscopy compared with diagnostic hysteroscopy. Many most of patients were affected by endometritis caused by bacteria developed resistance to several antimicrobials. These data underscore the importance of tracking antimicrobial resistance of responsible pathogens of HAIs in hospitals. more...

Various complications of arterial embolisation (AE) for postpartum haemorrhage (PPH) are reported. Endometritis (EM) frequently causes abscesses, increasing hysterectomy risk. However, risk factors for EM after AE for PPH are unclear. We explored these risk factors. We included patients who underwent AE for PPH in our hospital from 2005 to 2020 and compared those who did (EM group) and did not develop EM after AE (non-EM group) in a case-control study. Twenty patients met the study criteria; eight patients (40%) had EM. There were no differences in risk factors between groups involved in infection, such as premature rupture of membranes. However, the contrast medium extravasation rate on computed tomography scans before the AE procedure was significantly higher in the EM group ( p =.019) compared to the non-EM group. The greatest EM risk factor was contrast medium extravasation before AE for PPH, determined by classification and regression tree modelling (relative risk: 4.5).Impact Statement What is already known on this subject? Reportedly, the clinical success rate of arterial embolisation (AE) for critical haemorrhage in obstetrics is high, around 90%. However, information regarding AE complications is limited. Endometritis is one of these complications, which not only causes prolonged hospitalisation but may also require further treatment, such as hysterectomy. However, the incidence rate and risk factors for EM remain unknown. What do the results of this study add? In this study, 40.0% of patients developed EM after AE for PPH. Extravasation of contrast medium was the top risk factor (relative risk: 4.5 compared to those without EM, p =.019). The second-leading risk factor was a bleeding volume greater than 2500 mL (relative risk: 4.5 compared to those without EM, p =.019). What are the implications of these findings for future clinical practice and/or future research? We created an EM prediction model using extravasation and a bleeding volume greater than 2500 mL. The model was 87.5% sensitive and 66.7% specific. This prediction model allows for the early detection and treatment of EM by recognising high-risk patients and providing intensive postpartum management. more...

Objective: The aim of the present study was to assess the impact of different maternal Body Mass Index (BMI) classes on the risk of postpartum endometritis, wound infection, and breast abscess after different modes of delivery. Secondly to estimate how the risk of postpartum infection varies with different maternal BMI groups after induction of labor and after obstetric anal sphincter injuries., Methods: A population-based observational study including women who gave birth during eight years ( N  = 841,780). Data were collected from three Swedish Medical Health Registers, the Swedish Medical Birth Register, the Swedish National Patient Register, and the Swedish Prescribed Drug Register. Outcomes were defined by ICD-10 codes given within eight weeks postpartum. The reference population was uninfected women. Odds ratios were determined using Mantel-Haenszel technique. Year of delivery, maternal age, parity and smoking in early pregnancy were considered as confounders., Results: There was a dose-dependent relationship between an increasing maternal BMI and a higher risk for postpartum infections. Women in obesity class II and III had an increased risk for endometritis after normal vaginal delivery aOR 1.45 (95% CI: 1.29-1.63) and for wound infections after cesarean section aOR 3.83 (95% CI: 3.39-4.32). There was no difference in how maternal BMI affected the association between cesarean section and wound infection, regardless of whether it was planned or emergent. Women in obesity class II and III had a lower risk of breast abscess compared with normal-weight women, aOR 0.47 (95% CI: 0.38-0.58). The risk of endometritis after labor induction decreased with increasing maternal BMI. The risk of wound infection among women with an obstetrical sphincter injury decreased with increasing BMI., Conclusion: This study provides new knowledge about the impact of maternal BMI on the risk of postpartum infections after different modes of delivery. There was no difference in how BMI affected the association between cesarean section and wound infections, regardless of whether it was a planned cesarean section or an emergency cesarean section. more...

Background: Placenta accreta spectrum (PAS) disorders have been reported with an increasing frequency of up to 3%. The increase in the incidence can be explained by the rising rate of Caesarean section (CS), assisted reproductive technology (ART) and previous uterine surgeries. PAS disorders are usually associated with postpartum haemorrhage (PPH). In our study, we investigated the risk factors for increased blood loss in women with histologically verified PAS disorders independent of delivery mode., Methods: In a retrospective single-centre cross-sectional study, 2,223 pregnant women with histologically verified PAS disorders were included. Risk factors for PPH in women with PAS disorders were examined and compared between women with PPH (study group; n = 879) and women with normal blood loss (control group; n = 1150), independent of delivery mode. PAS disorders were diagnosed histologically from the following specimens: placenta, placental-bed specimens, uterine curettage, uterine resection and/or total/partial hysterectomy. Medical data were extracted from clinical records of pregnant women with PAS disorders delivering at the University Hospital Basel between 1986 and 2019. The placenta data of women with PAS disorders were obtained and identified through a search from the database of the Department of Pathology, University Hospital Basel., Results: Between 1986 and 2019, there were 64,472 deliveries at the University Hospital Basel. PAS disorders were histologically verified in 2,223 women (2,223/64,472), and the prevalence of PAS disorders was 3.45%. A total of 879 women with PAS disorders showed PPH, independent of delivery mode (43.3%). Due to missing data for 194 women, the final analysis was conducted with the remaining 2,029 women. Placenta praevia (O.R. = 6.087; 95% CI, 3.813 to 9.778), previous endometritis (O.R. = 3.011; 95% CI, 1.060 to 9.018), previous manual placenta removal (O.R. = 2.530; 95% CI, 1.700 to 3.796), ART (O.R. = 2.169; 95% CI, 1.593 to 2.960) and vaginal operative birth (O.R. = 1.715; 95% CI, 1.225-2.428) can be considered important risk factors, and previous CS (O.R. = 1.408; 95% CI, 1.016 to 1.950) can be considered a moderate potential risk factor of PPH in women with PAS disorders., Conclusions: Placenta praevia, previous endometritis, previous placenta removal, ART and vaginal operative birth can be considered important risk factors of PPH in women with PAS disorders., Study Registration: The study was registered under http://www., Clinicaltrials: gov (NCT05542043) on 15 September 2022., (© 2023. The Author(s).) more...

Recurrent implantation failure (RIF) remains a challenging problem in assisted reproductive technology (ART). Further insights into uterine abnormalities that can disturb embryo implantation should be obtained. This review provides an overview of the effects of organic and non-organic uterine disorders on endometrial receptivity. The results suggest that various uterine pathologies can lead to defective embryo implantation via multiple mechanisms. In particular, uterine adenomyosis dysregulates molecular and cellular interactions that are vital for successful embryo implantation with a background of chronic inflammation, which may be alleviated by pretreatment with a gonadotropin-releasing hormone agonist. Uterine myomas can cause endometrial deformation and adverse alterations in uterine contractility. Nonetheless, the effectiveness of myomectomy remains debated, and endometrial polyp removal may be considered, particularly in patients with RIF. Chronic endometritis abrogates the appropriate uterine immunological environment critical for embryo implantation. Abnormal endometrial microbiota have been suggested to influence endometrial receptivity; however, supporting evidence is currently scarce. Platelet-rich plasma therapy may be a potential treatment for thin endometria; nevertheless, further validation is required. Endometrial receptivity analysis can detect dysregulation of the window of implantation, and new non-invasive methods for predicting endometrial receptivity have recently been proposed. However, numerous issues still need to be fully clarified. Further clinical and basic studies are necessary to investigate the pathophysiology of defective endometrial receptivity and identify optimal treatments for patients undergoing ART, especially those with RIF., (© 2023 Japan Society of Obstetrics and Gynecology.) more...

Background and Objectives: Triclosan-coated sutures (antibacterial sutures) can reduce the risk of postoperative surgical site infection. This study aimed to investigate the effect of intraoperative factors, including antibacterial sutures, on the risk of postpartum septic complications. Materials and Methods: The prospective study included patients who underwent caesarean section. The exclusion criterion was chorioamnionitis. The investigation group patient's ( n = 67) uterus and fascial sheath of the abdominal wall were sutured with triclosan-coated polyglactin 910 sutures during surgery. The control group consisted of 98 patients using uncoated polyglactin 910 sutures only. The patients were contacted by phone after the 30th postoperative day. Results: No significant difference was found between the investigation group and the control group in the development of postpartum endometritis (11.7% in the investigation group vs. 8.4% in the control group, p = 0.401), wound infection (6.3% vs. 3.6%, p = 0.444) or patients experienced any septic complication (15.9% vs. 12%, p = 0.506). Postpartum endometritis was more common in patients who underwent instrumental uterine examination during the surgery (23.8% vs. 18%, p = 0.043). A moderately strong correlation was found for haemoglobin level on the third-fourth postoperative day with the development of postpartum septic complications, p < 0.001, Pearson coefficient -0.319. Post-caesarean delivery septic complications were not statistically more common in patients with blood loss greater than 1 L. The incidence of post-caesarean endometritis was 13.4%, and wound infection was 4.8% in this study's hospital, having five to six thousand deliveries per year. Conclusions: Using antibacterial sutures during caesarean section does not affect the incidence of postpartum septic complications. Instrumental uterine examination during caesarean section increases the risk of post-caesarean endometritis and is, therefore, not recommended. Haemoglobin level on the 3rd-4th postoperative day, rather than the estimated blood loss during surgery, affects the development of postpartum septic complications. more...

Objective: Precesarean vaginal antisepsis can benefit pregnant women with ruptured membranes. However, in the general population, recent trials have shown mixed results in reducing postoperative infections. This study aimed to systematically review clinical trials and summarize the most suitable vaginal preparations for cesarean delivery in preventing postoperative infection., Data Sources: We searched PubMed, Web of Science, Cochrane Library, SinoMed databases, and the ClinicalTrials.gov clinical trials registry for randomized controlled trials and conference presentations (past 20 years, 2003-2022). Reference lists of previous meta-analyses were searched manually. In addition, we conducted subgroup analysis on the basis of whether the studies were conducted in developed or developing countries, whether the membranes were ruptured, and whether patients were in labor., Study Eligibility Criteria: We included randomized controlled trials comparing vaginal preparation methods for the prevention of postcesarean infection with each other or with negative controls., Methods: Two reviewers independently extracted data and assessed the risk of bias and the certainty of the evidence. The effectiveness of prevention strategies was assessed by frequentist-based network meta-analysis models. The outcomes were endometritis, postoperative fever, and wound infection., Results: A total of 23 trials including 10,026 cesarean delivery patients were included in this study. Vaginal preparation methods included 19 iodine-based disinfectants (1%, 5%, and 10% povidone-iodine; 0.4% and 0.5% iodophor) and 4 guanidine-based disinfectants (0.05% and 0.20% chlorhexidine acetate; 1% and 4% chlorhexidine gluconate). Overall, vaginal preparation significantly reduced the risks of endometritis (3.4% vs 8.1%; risk ratio, 0.41 [0.32-0.52]), postoperative fever (7.1% vs 11.4%; risk ratio, 0.58 [0.45-0.74]), and wound infection (4.1% vs 5.4%; risk ratio, 0.73 [0.59-0.90]). With regard to disinfectant type, iodine-based disinfectants (risk ratio, 0.45 [0.35-0.57]) and guanidine-based disinfectants (risk ratio, 0.22 [0.12-0.40]) significantly reduced the risk of endometritis, and iodine-based disinfectants reduced the risk of postoperative fever (risk ratio, 0.58 [0.44-0.77]) and wound infection (risk ratio, 0.75 [0.60-0.94]). With regard to disinfectant concentration, 1% povidone-iodine was most likely to simultaneously reduce the risks of endometritis, postoperative fever, and wound infection., Conclusion: Preoperative vaginal preparation can significantly reduce the risk of postcesarean infectious diseases (endometritis, postoperative fever, and wound infection); 1% povidone-iodine has particularly outstanding effects., (Copyright © 2023 The Author(s). Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.) more...

Background: Intrapartum infection usually warrants immediate delivery and impacts 5-12% of term pregnancies, with the most commonly identified pathogenic organism being of the Ureaplasma genus. When performing cervical examinations during labor, providers in the United States commonly use sterile gloves, although there are no data currently to support that this practice reduces rates of infection. Furthermore, in nearly all other settings of Gynecologic care, aside from surgery in an operating room, nonsterile gloves are used. Even though the uterus could be sterile in normal pregnancies, the provider performing the cervical examination must traverse the milieu of vaginal bacteria in order to reach the cervix to perform the exam, introducing vaginal microbiota into the uterus regardless of the type of glove used. This prospective randomized controlled study examines whether the type of glove used (sterile vs clean) impacts the rates of intrapartum infection in patients receiving cervical examinations during labor or induction of labor at term.., Objective: This study aimed to evaluate if the glove type (sterile vs clean) used for cervical examinations during labor affects the rates of intrapartum and postpartum infection., Study Design: This randomized controlled trial assigned eligible and consenting participants to receive cervical examinations during labor with either sterile powder-free polyvinyl chloride examination gloves (current routine practice, control group) or clean powder-free nitrile examination gloves (nonsterile, experimental group). The primary outcome was rates of intrapartum infection (chorioamnionitis). Sample size calculations estimated that 300 participants would be needed with a rate of infection of 10% in the control group and 20% in the experimental group to demonstrate difference between the groups; however, the rates of infection were much lower than expected, at 5.4% and 4.4% in the sterile and clean glove group, respectively. At this point, it was determined futile to continue the study because a sample size of >29,000 participants would be needed, which would not be achievable at a single tertiary care referral center with approximately 3500 deliveries per year. The study was approved by the Eastern Virginia Medical School Institutional Review Board (IRB 21-09-FB-0206), and was registered at ClinicalTrials.gov (identifier NCT05603624; https://clinicaltrials.gov/ct2/show/NCT05603624)., Results: A total of 163 participants with singleton pregnancies completed the study; 74 (45%) were randomized to the sterile glove group, and 89 (55%) were randomized to the clean glove group. In the sterile glove group, 4 (5.4%) developed intrapartum infection (chorioamnionitis) and 1 (1.3%) developed postpartum infection (endometritis). In the clean glove group, 4 (4.4%) developed intrapartum infection and 2 (2.2%) developed postpartum infection. There was no significant difference in rates of intrapartum infection (P=1.0) or postpartum infection (P=1.0), or combined rates of infection (including both chorioamnionitis and endometritis; P=.99) between the sterile and the clean glove group. When comparing the participants from both groups who had any intrapartum or postpartum infection (n=11) with those who had no infection (n=152), the former were more likely to be nulliparous (P=.01), have lower gravidity (P<.01) and parity (P<.01), have longer times from first cervical examination to delivery (P=.02), have longer times from rupture of membranes to delivery (P=.0001), undergo cesarean delivery (P=.0002), and experience postpartum hemorrhage (P=.001). Although participants who were in labor for a longer time also likely had more cervical examinations, these data could suggest that duration of labor (P=.02) is more closely associated with infectious morbidity compared with the number of cervical examinations (P=.15)., Conclusion: Using clean gloves for cervical examinations during labor is unlikely to increase risk of infection, and could reduce cost by up to 92.4% at our institution, saving over $25,000 annually., (Copyright © 2023 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.) more...

Equine endometritis is one of the most common causes of reproduction failure. To achieve better treatment outcomes, different diagnostic methods should be combined. In the current study, 39 repeat breeder mares were subjected to ultrasonography examination to detect excessive accumulation of intrauterine fluids and an abnormal oedema pattern, which revealed that 61.5% of mares were positive. Combined with endometrial cytology by low-volume uterine flush, 47.7% of smears contain neutrophils (more than 2-3 per HPF X100), and microbial culture. 92.3% of mares were infected with different bacterial isolates, such as Escherichia coli, Streptococci, Staphylococcus, Klebsiella pneumoniae, Klebsiella oxytoca, Citrobacter freundii, Providencia alcalifaciens, and Proteus mirabilis. All mares were given saline solution and gravity withdrawal before being given 20 IU of oxytocin (as ecbolic agents). Mares were divided into three groups; Group one (n = 15) received an intrauterine infusion of 20 mL of freshly prepared autologous platelet-rich plasma (PRP) 6 h after breeding, Group two (n = 15) was treated with three doses of systemic Enrofloxacin 5% during the estrus period, and Group three (n = 9) received only uterine lavage and 20 IU of oxytocin. PRP and Enrofloxacin resulted in a significant (p < .05) reduction in endometrial thickness (oedema; 5.05 and 6.74 mm, respectively) and disappearance of intrauterine fluids compared to the control (10.98 mm). Furthermore, PRP (days) and Enrofloxacin (17.89 days) reduced the days to the next oestrus compared to the control (18.58 and 17.89 vs. 21.19 days, respectively). Furthermore, the pregnancy rate improved to reach 70% in the PRP group and 60% in the Enrofloxacin group, while the control remained low at 22%. In conclusion, autologous PRP can be used as a low-cost alternative therapy for modulating the inflammatory process and effectively treating mares' endometritis., (© 2023 Wiley-VCH GmbH. Published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd.) more...

Background: Emergent cesarean delivery (CD) carries a high risk for postpartum infection. In cases with a "splash" povidone-iodine (PI) skin preparation, prophylactic postoperative antibiotics (PP-Abx) are sometimes utilized, but the benefit is unclear., Objective: To evaluate if the use of PP-Abx decreases postpartum infection after emergent CD with "splash" PI skin preparation., Study Design: Cohort study of patients undergoing emergent CD with PI skin preparation from July 2012 to April 2020 at a single institution. Cases were identified using a natural language search engine, DEEP-6, with key terms "emergent" and "cesarean delivery." Patients with chorioamnionitis or non-PI skin preparation (e.g. chlorhexidine) were excluded. The primary exposure was use of PP-Abx. The primary outcome was postpartum infection or wound complication, defined as a composite: endometritis, wound infection, cellulitis, seroma, hematoma, or intra-abdominal abscess. Rates of postpartum infection or wound complication were stratified by use of PP-Abx. Demographic and labor characteristics were evaluated as confounders. Statistics by χ 2 , t -test, and logistic regression (α = 0.05)., Results: In total, 481 patients underwent emergent CD; of those, 370 had PI skin preparation and were included. PP-Abx were given in 43% (160/370) of cases, including: cefazolin ( n  = 137), gentamicin/clindamycin ( n  = 18), azithromycin ( n  = 3), and vancomycin ( n  = 2). Those receiving PP-Abx were similar to those who did not, except the PP-Abx group was younger with longer CD duration. The rate of postpartum infection or wound complication was no different in patients who received PP-Abx compared to those who did not (12.6% vs. 9.5%, p  = .34). This finding remained unchanged after multivariable adjustment (aOR 1.2, CI 0.61-2.4, p  = .60). Moreover, the rate of postpartum infection or wound complication did not vary by antibiotic choice., Conclusions: After emergent CD with PI skin preparation, routine use of prophylactic postoperative antibiotics does not appear to reduce the rate of postpartum infection or wound complication, which is important as we consider antibiotic stewardship. More studies are needed to identify treatments that decrease infectious morbidity with emergent CD. more...

Objective: Standardized techniques have been established for cesarean delivery to reduce cesarean delivery complication rates. Current recommendations suggest against manual removal of the placenta. The purpose of the present meta-analysis is to evaluate published data and provide a summary of the evidence., Methods: For the purposes of this systematic review, we searched Medline, Scopus, the Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials CENTRAL, Google Scholar, and Clinicaltrials.gov databases from inception till June 2021 for relevant randomized controlled trials. Effect sizes were calculated in R., Results: Overall, 19 studies were included that involved 5797 parturient. We did not detect significant differences in the mean intraoperative blood loss among the two techniques (MD = 149.18 ml, 95% CI = -32.55, 330.92). Similarly, intraoperative duration was comparable among the two groups (MD = -0.89 min, 95% CI = -2.34, 0.57). The risk of intraoperative hemorrhage was comparable among the two groups (OR = 1.75, 95% CI = 0.48, 6.36), although the provided result is based on underpowered sample size. Consequently, the need of transfusion was not increased (OR = 1.31, 95% CI = 0.71, 2.44). Neither postpartum endometritis (OR = 1.50, 95% CI = 0.94, 2.40) nor infectious morbidity (OR = 1.82, 95% CI = 0.94, 3.52) increased with manual placental extraction., Conclusion: The findings of our study suggest that cephalad-caudad blunt expansion of the uterine incision may be safe; however, more data are needed to evaluate its impact on post-partum infectious morbidity as well as its safety in cases at increased risk of perioperative bleeding. more...

Objective: to assess the impact of manual removal of the placenta and intrauterine cleaning during elective cesarean delivery on maternal infectious morbidity and blood loss., Methods: This prospective multicenter trial was conducted on 436 pregnant women at term who were intended for elective cesarean delivery and allocated into four groups; group 1 ( n  = 110) who underwent manual removal of the placenta with intrauterine cleaning, group 2 ( n  = 106) who underwent manual removal of the placenta without intrauterine cleaning, group 3 ( n  = 108) who underwent spontaneous placental delivery with intrauterine cleaning and group 4 ( n  = 112) who underwent spontaneous placental delivery without intrauterine cleaning. Maternal operative blood loss, the rate of endometritis and surgical site infections (SSIs) was assessed and recorded., Results: There was no significant difference between the four groups regarding drop of hemoglobin concentration, drop of hematocrit value, re-operation, re-admission to hospital, duration of hospital stay, the rate of endometritis and SSIs as well as maternal acceptability in terms of overall discomfort, overall satisfaction with delivery and recommendation to other women ( p  > .05). Intrauterine cleaning was associated with a significantly shorter duration of discharge of lochia and rapid return to daily activity compared to non-intrauterine cleaning ( p  < .05)., Conclusion: Manual removal of the placenta and intrauterine cleaning have no deleterious impact on maternal blood loss and infectious morbidity after elective cesarean section. Also, intrauterine cleaning was associated with faster cessation of lochia and faster return to daily activity. more...

Objectives: To evaluate the incidence, etiologies, and clinical outcomes of secondary postpartum hemorrhage in a hospital with a high cesarean section rate and to compare the etiologies of secondary postpartum hemorrhage following cesarean delivery versus vaginal delivery., Materials and Methods: This retrospective study included 123 women with secondary postpartum hemorrhage who were treated at a tertiary-level hospital between January 2004 and June 2018. Descriptive statistics and the chi-square test were used for data analysis., Results: The incidence of secondary postpartum hemorrhage was 0.21%. The median onset of bleeding was 12 days after delivery. Fifty-two percent of the deliveries were by cesarean section. The most common etiology of secondary postpartum hemorrhage was endometritis (67.5%), followed by retained placental tissue (21.1%). Women who delivered by cesarean section had a higher rate of endometritis (80.0% vs 53.4%) and a lower rate of retained placental tissue (10.8% vs. 32.8%) than those who delivered vaginally. Surgical intervention included uterine evacuation in 29.3% and hysterectomy in 8.1% of the patients. Five percent of women were treated by embolization., Conclusions: Endometritis was the most common cause of secondary postpartum hemorrhage. Women who delivered by cesarean section were less likely to have retained placental tissue but were at higher risk for endometritis and uterine pseudoaneurysm than those who delivered vaginally., Competing Interests: The authors have declared that no competing interests exist. more...

Background: Caesarean section, a common obstetric surgical procedure, is a major predisposing factor for puerperal infections, requiring the need for antibiotic prophylaxis. Evidence suggests that single-dose antibiotic prophylaxis has comparable efficacy to multiple-dose antibiotic prophylaxis, but with a lower cost and risk of antibiotic resistance. However, single-dose antibiotic prophylaxis after caesarean section is not generally used in many centres in sub-Saharan Africa., Objective: This study aimed to compare the effectiveness of single- versus multiple-dose antibiotic prophylaxis to prevent post-caesarean section infections., Methodology: This open-label, randomized controlled trial involved 162 consenting patients admitted for caesarean section (elective or emergency) at the Federal Medical Centre Keffi. They were distributed randomly into treatment arm A or B. Subjects in both arms received intravenous ceftriaxone (1 g) and metronidazole (500 mg) 30-60 min before incision; subjects in arm B received additional parenteral doses for 48 h and then cefuroxime 500 mg tablets every 12 h and metronidazole 400 mg tablets every 8 h for 5 days. The patients were monitored for 2 weeks for evidence of wound infection, febrile morbidity and clinical endometritis., Result: There was no statistical difference in the incidence of wound infection (6.6% versus 7.4%; p  = .882) and febrile morbidity (11.8% versus 11.1%, p  = .807). However, clinical endometritis (0.0% versus 6.1%, p  = .028) was statistically significant with none reported in the single-dose arm., Conclusion: Single-dose ceftriaxone and metronidazole is as effective as multiple doses for antibiotic prophylaxis to prevent post-caesarean section infections. Adoption of this approach in low-risk patients would reduce the cost of prophylactic antibiotics, workload for staff and antibiotic resistance. more...

Background: Cesarean sections are the most common surgery worldwide, and post-cesarean section infections and hemorrhage are a major cause for morbidity and mortality. In recent years, many surgeons use adhesion barriers as well as hemostatic agents during primary and repeated cesarean section. The data regarding the safety of these agents is relatively limited. The objective of this study was to investigate whether the use of adhesion barriers and topical hemostatic agents pose a risk for post-cesarean section infections., Method: A case-control study composed of women who were admitted to the Soroka University Medical Center between the years 2012 and 2016 was conducted. The study group was composed of women admitted owing to post-cesarean section infections (cases) and those who underwent cesarean sections without post-cesarean section infection (control subjects). Matching was done according to date and surgery setting (elective versus emergency). A univariate analysis was followed by a multiple regression model in order to examine the association between adhesion barriers/hemostatic agents and post-cesarean section infections., Results: During the study period, 113 patients developed postoperative infection (cases); 71.7% were diagnosed with surgical site infection, 7.1% with endometritis, and 21.2% with other infections. These were compared with 226 control subjects. In the univariate analysis, the use of adhesion barriers/hemostatic agents were found to be associated with post-cesarean section infection. Using a multivariable analysis controlling for previous cesarean section, skin closer technique, preterm delivery, and duration of surgery >60 minutes, the use of adhesion barriers as well as hemostatic agents was found to be independently associated with post-cesarean section infection (adjusted odds ratio = 2.11, 95% confidence interval = 1.17-3.84; adjusted odds ratio = 2.29, 95% confidence interval = 1.37-3.8, respectively) CONCLUSION: Adhesion barriers and hemostatic agents were found to be independently associated with post-cesarean section infections. Further larger studies are needed to reinforce our findings. The use of these materials should be carefully considered, and their cost-effectiveness re-examined., (Copyright © 2021 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.) more...

CD8+ T cells recognize non-self antigen by MHC class I molecules and kill the target cells by the release of proinflammatory cytokines such as interferon gamma (IFN-γ) and tumor necrosis factor alpha (TNF-α). Our group previously reported an increase of CD8+ T-cell trafficking in the placenta with exposure to Lipopolysaccharides (LPS). CD8+ cytotoxic T cells have been classified into distinct subsets based upon cytokine production: Tc1 cells produce IFN-γ, Tc2 cells produce interleukin 4 (IL-4). Accordingly, the purpose of this research is to analyze the subsets of placenta CD8+ T cells. We hypothesized that LPS injection would induce a change of properties of CD8+ T cell and Tc1/Tc2 ratio. We investigated the subsets of CD8+ T cell infiltration to placenta and their specific function in response to LPS-induced inflammation in a mouse model. At embryonic (E) day 17, pregnant CD-1 dams received an intrauterine injection of 25 µg LPS in100 μl PBS or 100 μl of PBS only. Flow cytometry was used to quantify CD8+ T cells, evaluate the phenotype and subtypes, and detect markers of Tc1 and Tc2 cells in placenta, at 6 hours and 24 hours post injection (hpi). Intracellular staining and flow cytometry were performed to characterize cytokines produced by CD8+ T cells. Standard statistical analysis were employed. After 6 and 24 hours of LPS injection, total CD8 T cells increased (P<0.05). Tc1 cells expanded (P<0.05) in LPS-treated dams compared with the PBS group. The Tc1/Tc2 ratio was significantly higher in the LPS group than the PBS group (P<0.05). The expression of TNF-α and IFN- γ were increased in LPS group both at 6hpi and 24 hpi (P<0.05). We identified functional placental CD8+ T cell subtypes and found a significant increase ratio of Tc1/Tc2. Following IUI, CD8+ T cells induced inflammatory response in the placenta primarily via the production of Type 1 cytokines such as IFN-γ and TNF-α. We have provided evidence of a Tc1-bias response and cytokines in the mouse model of IUI., Competing Interests: The authors declare that the research was conducted in the absence of any commercial or financial relationships that could be construed as a potential conflict of interest., (Copyright © 2021 Liu, Liu, Panda, Liu, Lei and Burd.) more...

Introduction: Pregnant women with a body mass index (BMI) ≥40 kg/m 2 are at an increased risk of requiring planned- and unplanned cesarean deliveries (CD). The aim of this systematic review is to compare outcomes in women with BMI ≥ 40 kg/m 2 based on planned and actual mode of birth., Material and Methods: Five databases were searched for English and French-language publications until February 2019, and all studies reporting on delivery outcomes in women with BMI ≥ 40 kg/m 2 , stratified by planned and actual mode of birth, were included. Risk-of-bias was assessed using the Newcastle-Ottawa Scale. Relative risks (RR) and 95% confidence intervals were calculated using random-effects meta-analysis., Results: Ten observational studies were included. Anticipated vaginal birth vs planned CD (5 studies, n = 2216) was associated with higher risk for postpartum hemorrhage (13.0% vs 4.1%, P < .001, numbers needed to harm (NNH = 11), I 2  = 0%) but lower risk for wound complications (7.6% vs 14.5%, P < .001, numbers needed to treat (NNT = 15), I 2  = 58.3%). Planned trial of labor vs repeat CD (3 studies, n = 4144) was associated with higher risk for uterine dehiscence (0.94% vs 0.42%, P = .04, NNH = 200, I 2  = 0%), endometritis (5.1% vs 2.2%, P < .001, NNH = 35, I 2  = 0%), prolonged hospitalization (one study, 30.3% vs 26.0%, P = .003, NNH = 23), low five-minute Apgar scores (4.9% vs 1.7%, RR 2.95 (2.03, 4.28), NNH = 30, I 2  = 0%) and birth trauma (1.1% vs 0.2%, P < .001, NNH = 111, I 2  = 0%). Successful vaginal birth vs intrapartum CD (n = 3625) was associated with lower risk of postpartum hemorrhage (15.1% vs 70%, P < .001, NNT = 2, I 2  = 0%), wound complications (one study, 0% vs 4.4%, P = .007, NNT = 23), prolonged hospitalization (one study, 1.9% vs 6.7%, 0.04, NNT = 21) and low five-minute Apgar scores (one study, 1.0% vs 5.6%, P = .03, NNT = 22), but more birth trauma (5.9% vs 0.6%, P = .005, NNH = 19, I 2  = 0%). Compared groups had dissimilar demographic characteristics. Although studies scored 6-7/9 on risk-of-bias assessment, they were at high-risk for confounding by indication., Conclusions: Evidence from observational studies suggests clinical equipoise regarding the optimal mode of delivery in women with BMI ≥ 40 kg/m 2 and no prior CD. This question is best answered by a randomized trial. Based on an unplanned subgroup analysis, for women with BMI ≥ 40 kg/m 2 and prior CD, repeat CD may be associated with better clinical outcomes., (© 2020 Nordic Federation of Societies of Obstetrics and Gynecology.) more...

Objective: Emergent postpartum hospital encounters in the first 42 days after birth are estimated to complicate 5 to 12% of births. Approximately 2% of these visits result in admission. Data on emergent visits and admissions are critically needed to address the current maternal morbidity crisis. Our objective is to characterize trends in emergent postpartum hospital encounters and readmissions through chief complaints and admission diagnoses over a 4.5-year period., Study Design: All postpartum hospital encounters within 42 days of delivery at our institution from 2015 to 2019 were included. We reviewed demographic information, antepartum, intrapartum, and postpartum care and postpartum hospital encounters. Trends in hospital presentation and admission over the study period were analyzed. Comparisons between women who were admitted to those managed outpatient were performed. Statistical analysis included Chi-square, student's t -test, and Mantel-Haenszel test for trend and ANOVA, as appropriate. A p -value <0.05 considered significant., Results: Among 8,589 deliveries, 491 (5.7%) presented emergently to the hospital within 42 days of delivery, resulting in 576 hospital encounters. From 2015 to 2019, annual rates of presentation were stable, ranging from 5.0 to 6.4% ( p  = 0.09). Of the 576 hospital encounters, 224 (38.9%) resulted in an admission with increasing rates from 2.0% in 2015 to 3.4% in 2019 ( p  = 0.005). Primiparous women with higher body mass index, cesarean delivery, and blood loss ≥1, 000 mL during delivery were significantly more likely to be admitted to the hospital. Women with psychiatric illnesses increasingly utilized the emergency room in the postpartum period (6.7-17.2%, p  = 0.03). The most common presenting complaints were fever, abdominal pain, headache, vaginal bleeding, wound concerns, and high blood pressure. Admitting diagnoses were predominantly hypertensive disorder (22.9%), wound complications (12.8%), endometritis (9.6%), headache (6.9%), and delayed postpartum hemorrhage (5.6%)., Conclusion: The average proportion of women presenting for an emergent hospital encounter in the immediate 42-day postpartum period is 5.7%. Nearly 40% of emergent hospital encounters resulted in admission and the rate increased from to 2.0 to 3.4% over the study period. The most common reasons for presentation were fever, abdominal pain, headache, vaginal bleeding, wound concerns, and hypertension. Hypertension, wound complications, and endometritis accounted for the top three admission diagnoses., Competing Interests: None declared., (Thieme. All rights reserved.) more...

Background: Chorioamnionitis affects 1-4% of pregnancies, and patients who undergo cesarean delivery in the setting of chorioamnionitis have an increased risk of endometritis and surgical site infection (SSI). The standard treatment for chorioamnionitis after cesarean delivery is a combination regimen of intravenous ampicillin, gentamicin, and clindamycin with variable duration (single dose to 24 h). However, newer evidence suggests that ertapenem may decrease the risk of postoperative infectious morbidity with the added benefit of a single postpartum dose, compared to between 3 and 10 doses of AGC. Concerns regarding the cost of ertapenem have been cited as a deterrent for this regimen. Objective: The objective of this study was to investigate the cost-effectiveness of single-dose ertapenem compared to existing standard regimens. Methods: A decision analytic cost-effectiveness model was designed from a hospital perspective to compare four strategies for the postpartum management of chorioamnionitis after cesarean delivery: (i) no antibiotics; (ii) a one-time intravenous dose of ampicillin, gentamicin, and clindamycin (AGC-1); (iii) 24-h coverage with intravenous ampicillin, gentamicin, and clindamycin (AGC-24); and (iv) intravenous ertapenem, one dose. Medical costs, rates of SSI and endometritis following cesarean delivery, and costs of postcesarean infection (SSI or endometritis) were abstracted from the literature. Antibiotic drug costs were obtained from the pharmacy department at a private academic hospital. The cost of each regimen was calculated as costs to the hospital and included antibiotics (no antibiotics $0, AGC-1 $66, ertapenem $140, and AGC-24 $208), administration, and labor costs. Effectiveness was quantified as percentage of patients who avoided postcesarean infectious morbidity (endometritis or SSI). Results: The base case cost of each strategy was: AGC-1 $704, ertapenem $733, AGC-24 $846, and no antibiotics $971. Ertapenem had an effectiveness of 88%, AGC-1 and AGC-24 were 87% each, and no antibiotics was 81%. No antibiotics and AGC-24 were more costly and equally or less effective than comparators (dominated strategies). Ertapenem was more costly, but more effective than AGC-1, with an incremental cost-effectiveness ratio of $3738 per infection avoided. In a sensitivity analysis comparing ertapenem to the most commonly used strategy of ACG-24, the ertapenem strategy remained less costly if the rate of endometritis with ertapenem was <11% (base case estimate 8%) or the rate of SSI with ertapenem was <7% (base case estimate 4%). Conclusions: Ertapenem is a cost-saving alternative to 24-h AGC treatment for chorioamnionitis in the setting of cesarean delivery, and may be considered a cost-effective treatment when compared to a one time dose of AGC depending on infection rates. more...

Background: The association between the number of vaginal examinations (VEs) performed during labor and the risk of infection is unclear. The literature regarding this issue is not consensual, and the available studies are relatively small. Therefore, we aimed to study the association between the number of VEs during labor, and maternal febrile morbidity, in a very large cohort., Methods: This is a retrospective cohort study. All women who delivered vaginally ≥37 weeks, at our institute, between 2008 and 2017 were included. Patients who underwent cesarean delivery or who were treated with prophylactic antibiotics, or had a fever ≥38.0 °C prior to the first VE were excluded. Cases of intrauterine fetal death, known malformations, or missing data were excluded as well. The cohort was divided according to the number of VEs performed: up to 4 VEs (n = 9716), 5-6 VEs (n = 4624), 7-8 VEs (n = 2999), and 9 or more VEs (n = 4844). The rates of intrapartum febrile morbidity (intrapartum fever and chorioamnionitis), postpartum febrile morbidity (postpartum fever and endometritis), and peripartum febrile morbidity (any of the mentioned complications) were compared., Results: Overall, 22,183 women were included in the study. On multivariate analysis, we found that performing 5 VEs or more during labor was independently associated with intrapartum febrile morbidity (5-6 VEs: aOR = 1.83, 95% CI (1.29-2.61), 7-8 VEs: aOR = 2.65 95% CI (1.87-3.76), 9 or more VEs aOR = 3.47 95% CI (2.44-4.92)), postpartum febrile morbidity (5-6 VEs: aOR = 1.29, 95% CI (1.09-1.86), 7-8 VEs: aOR = 1.94 95% CI (1.33-2.83), 9 or more VEs aOR = 1.91 95% CI (1.28-2.82)), and peripartum morbidity (5-6 VEs: aOR = 1.48, 95% CI (1.15-1.91), 7-8 VEs: aOR = 2.15 95% CI (1.66-2.78), 9 or more VEs: aOR = 2.57 95% CI (1.97-3.34))., Conclusion: The number of VEs performed during labor is directly correlated with febrile morbidity. Performing five or more VEs during labor is independently associated with febrile morbidity; For intrapartum and peripartum febrile morbidity the risk rises as more VEs are performed. more...

Objective: This study aimed to develop a core outcome set of primary outcomes for studies involving cesarean deliveries with infectious morbidity outcomes., Study Design: Authors reported primary outcomes from 11 Cochrane systematic reviews (SRs), 12 other SRs, and 327 randomized controlled trials (RCTs). These outcomes were condensed into 20 primary outcome groups. Next, a modified Delphi technique was used to gain consensus on key outcomes. Authors from included SRs were sent a questionnaire consisting of a free response and multiple-choice questions. These data were used to propose a set of core outcomes., Results: The most frequent outcomes in RCTs were composite "infectious outcomes" (24%) with the second most common being endometritis (12%). The most common reported SR outcomes were wound infection (21%) and endometritis (16%). For the Delphi survey free response portion, wound infection (88%) and endometritis (79%) were the most commonly endorsed outcomes. Chosen list outcomes were maternal mortality (83%), wound infection (83%), wound complications (86%), and postpartum endometritis (80%). The proposed final core outcome set for cesarean trials was endometritis (primary outcome), maternal mortality, wound infection, wound complications, febrile morbidity, and neonatal morbidity., Conclusion: Utilizing defined core outcomes in all studies of cesarean section can harmonize trial reports and allow data synthesis for meta-analyses., Competing Interests: None declared., (Thieme Medical Publishers 333 Seventh Avenue, New York, NY 10001, USA.) more...

Objective: We aimed to investigate whether the neutrophil to lymphocyte ratio (NLR) may assist in the prediction of post CS infections., Study Design: This was a case control study performed at the Soroka University Medical Center, a large tertiary teaching medical center, between the years 2012-2016. Cases (post CS infection) were matched to controls (without post CS infection) in a proportion of 2:1. Matching was done according to surgery setting (elective vs. urgent) and date of surgery. Various demographic, clinical and obstetrical characteristics were collected. Laboratory tests that were taken 6-24 h postoperatively were compared between the study groups. Univariate analysis was followed by a multivariate one. Area under the curve was calculated for selected indices., Results: During the study period 113 patients who developed postoperative infection were compared with 224 healthy controls. Among patients in the study group, 71.7 % were diagnosed with surgical site infection, 7.1 % with endometritis and 21.2 % with other infections. Total neutrophil and lymphocyte counts were significantly higher among patient in the study group. NLR as well as platelet to lymphocyte (PLR) ratio were significantly higher among patients during the first 24 postoperative hours. NLR and PLR were found to be independently associated with post CS infection controlling for surgery length, use of hemostatic agents/adhesion barrier and skin closure technique (aOR 1.11 95 % CI 1.06-1.17, aOR 1.004 95 % CI 1.001-1.006, respectively). A performance analysis for NLR showed an area-under-the receiver operating curve (AUC) of 67 % (P = 0.006)., Conclusion: NLR is an easy readily available tool that may have a predictive value in early detection of post CS infection. Further studies are needed in order to support our findings before clinical implications of these findings can be recommended., Competing Interests: Declaration of Competing Interest The authors report no conflict of interests., (Copyright © 2019 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.) more...

Hyperketonemia and metritis are common in the weeks after calving. This study tested if feeding and agonistic behaviors before calving were associated with the development of hyperketonemia (HYK) and metritis after calving. Holstein cows on 5 commercial farms were monitored for HYK (as identified using a cow-side β-hydroxybutyrate test) and metritis (using visual and olfactory assessment of vaginal discharge); both tests were conducted twice a week for 2 wk. Based on this assessment, we selected a balanced sample of cows that remained healthy (no signs of illness; n = 20), cows diagnosed with either HYK (n = 20) or metritis (n = 20), and cows with both HYK and metritis (n = 20). Video recordings from the 8 wk before calving (scored every 2 wk for 90 min immediately after fresh feed delivery) were used to evaluate feeding behavior and competition at the feed bunk. Feeding behavior before calving was associated with postpartum diagnosis of HYK and metritis. Specifically, cows that spent less time eating had higher odds of HYK and metritis. Odds of remaining healthy (compared with becoming sick with at least 1 condition) increased by 1.3 times for every additional 15 min spent eating. Additionally, cows that were involved in fewer agonistic interactions prepartum were more likely to be diagnosed with both conditions during the postpartum period. Odds of remaining healthy (compared with becoming sick with at least one condition) increased by 1.9 times for every 6 additional interactions. We conclude that prepartum feeding and agonistic behaviors can be used to identify animals at risk of HYK and metritis postpartum., (Copyright © 2020 American Dairy Science Association. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.) more...

Objective: To estimate the incidence of and define risk factors for postpartum infectious complications after vaginal birth after cesarean (VBAC) complicated by chorioamnionitis., Study Design: A secondary analysis of the Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development Maternal-Fetal Medicine Unit Cesarean Registry was performed. The primary outcome was a composite of postpartum infection: endometritis, sepsis, pelvic abscess, urinary tract infection, necrotizing fasciitis, and septic pelvic thrombophlebitis. Peripartum predictors were compared using parametric and nonparametric tests, as appropriate, and multivariate predictors assessed using logistic regression., Results: A total of 559 subjects had chorioamnionitis in labor and a successful VBAC. Twenty-four (4.3%) subjects experienced the primary outcome, mainly due to endometritis (19/24). Significant factors included preterm delivery <32 weeks (odds ratio [OR]: 3.05, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.32-7.06) and body mass index (BMI) ≥40 (OR: 4.63, 95% CI: 1.25-17.14). Receipt of postpartum antibiotics was protective against postpartum infection (OR: 0.28, 95% CI: 0.12-0.65). In multivariate analysis, preterm delivery <32 weeks, BMI ≥40, and receipt of postpartum antibiotics remained associated with postpartum infection., Conclusion: Nearly 5% of women with chorioamnionitis had a postpartum infectious complication after vaginal delivery, with higher rates in those delivering at <32 weeks and with prepregnancy BMI ≥40. Receipt of postpartum antibiotics decreased the odds of postpartum infection markedly., Competing Interests: None declared., (Thieme Medical Publishers 333 Seventh Avenue, New York, NY 10001, USA.) more...

With a prevalence of up to 43 % subclinical ketosis is one of the most common diseases in dairy cows in their transition period. In itself, this may cause subsequent diseases such as clinical ketosis or lameness. Therefore, monitoring of animals in this stage is of importance. In addition to the measurement of β-hydroxybutyrate or acetoacetate in blood, milk, and urine as well as the observation of the animals, computer-assisted systems are suitable means of monitoring. Information such as animal identification and activity data are recorded on a data logger and transmitted to a computer. A change in activity may be an indication of an underlying disease days before the onset of additional clinical signs. In cases of ketosis, a decrease in activity may be observed 5 days before the clinical diagnosis is made. Thus, these data are a valuable contribution in monitoring the cattle herd's health status for both the farmer and the veterinarian. Activity measurement may also be employed for the detection of a beginning lameness. In the presence of lameness, the individual's activity decreases and periods of lying are longer. Activity measurement via transponder as a part of the herd monitoring provides important information on lameness prevalence in the herd. In the presence of a lameness a visual assessment should additionally be made. Lameness scores (Locomotion score, Gait score) have been developed for this purpose and add to determining the lameness status of the herd. This way the animals are divided into different lameness classes. Based on this classification those individuals in need of claw trimming or further treatment may be identified leading to amelioration or prevention of secondary diseases. Due to lameness and subsequent reduction of activity and feed intake, the animals may develop subclinical or clinical ketosis. Therefore, under consideration of both animal welfare and economic factors early disease detection and prophylaxis is desirable and should be a main objective of herd monitoring., Competing Interests: Die Autoren bestätigen, dass kein Interessenkonflikt besteht., (© Georg Thieme Verlag KG Stuttgart · New York.) more...

The main objective of this study was to determine the association of dry matter intake as percentage of body weight (DMI%BW) and energy balance (EB) prepartum (-21 d relative to parturition) and postpartum (28 d) with calving disorders (CDZ; dystocia, twins, and stillbirths; n = 101) and metritis (n = 114). For this, DMI%BW and EB were the independent variables and CDZ and metritis were the dependent variables. A secondary objective was to evaluate prepartum DMI%BW and EB as predictors of CDZ and metritis. For this, CDZ and metritis were the independent variables and DMI%BW and EB were the dependent variables. Data from 476 cows from 9 experiments were compiled. Cows that developed CDZ had lesser postpartum DMI%BW from d 3 to 12 and lesser energy-corrected milk (ECM) than cows that did not develop CDZ. Dry matter intake as percentage of BW and EB prepartum did not affect the odds of CDZ. Cows with metritis had lesser prepartum DMI%BW and EB. Each 0.1-percentage point decrease in the average DMI%BW and each 1-Mcal decrease in the average EB in the last 3 d prepartum increased the odds of having metritis by 8%. The average DMI%BW and EB during the last 3 d prepartum produced significant cut-offs to predict metritis postpartum, which were ≤1.6%/d and ≤2.5 Mcal/d, respectively. Cows that developed metritis had lesser overall postpartum DMI%BW and ECM and lesser EB from d 2 to 5 and from d 7 to 11 than cows that did not develop metritis. The main limitation in this study is that the time-order of disease relative to DMI%BW and ECM is inconsistent such that postpartum outcomes were measured before and after disease, which was diagnosed at variable intervals after calving. In summary, prepartum DMI%BW and EB were associated with and were predictors of metritis although the effect sizes were small for metritis, and calving disorders and metritis were associated with decreased DMI%BW and ECM postpartum., (Copyright © 2019 American Dairy Science Association. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.) more...

Background: In England, 27.8% of all pregnant women undergo caesarean sections (CS) to deliver their babies. Women undergoing CS are at risk of developing sepsis and post-natal infections, which not only contribute significantly to maternal mortality and morbidity, but also negatively impact upon post-natal recovery and wellbeing. This study explores patients' priorities in relation to CS recovery, focusing on their knowledge and experiences of infection prevention. The study formed part of the PREPS (Vaginal Preparation at caesarean section to Reduce Endometritis and Prevent Sepsis - a feasibility study of chlorhexidine) Trial; patients' views on the PREPS Trial were also sought., Methods: Using qualitative methodology, two focus groups and six telephone interviews were carried out between September and October 2017 with a total of 21 women who had undergone a CS within the preceding six months. Focus groups and individual telephone interviews were audio-recorded and transcribed verbatim; a thematic analysis was conducted using NVivo 11., Results: Women's priorities around CS recovery centred on pain (or the lack thereof), mobility and the ability to resume everyday activities, including caregiving. Those undergoing a CS for the first time reported not feeling confident in their ability to identify signs of infection and sought visiting health professionals' expertise and reassurance. Women were unable to recall whether they had received information regarding infection prevention and felt that they had not received sufficient advice. Some reported receiving general information regarding CS recovery, which ranged in quality. Prevention of womb infection is a major goal of the PREPS trial, however, the majority of women were not aware that womb (as opposed to wound) infection was a post CS risk., Conclusions: Women undergoing a CS want more information on what constitutes a 'normal' post-operative recovery and specifically would welcome written information and infection prevention advice. This should be a key element of improving post-CS maternal experiences and potentially reducing sepsis and infection rates. CS stigma negatively impacts women's recovery experiences and possibly information provision. The PREPS team incorporated findings regarding consent pathways for recruiting women into intrapartum research and developed two patient reported outcomes to collect in the main trial., Trial Registration: The PREPS trial has been registered with ISRCTN on the 10th July 2017 ( ISRCTN33435996 ). more...

Objective: We sought to compare adverse maternal outcomes between women with and without a uterine extension at the time of cesarean., Study Design: We conducted a retrospective cohort study of women with and without a uterine extension during a primary low transverse cesarean of a full-term singleton gestation. The primary outcomes were (1) estimated blood loss (EBL) and (2) composite maternal morbidity (defined as ≥ 1 of the following: blood transfusion, endometritis, or readmission). Pearson's chi-square or Fisher's exact test was used to compare categorical data; Student's t -test or Mann-Whitney's U -tests was used for continuous data. Linear and logistic regressions were used to adjust for confounding factors., Results: There were 252 women included (126 with extension and 126 without an extension). Women with extensions had a higher EBL (1,038 vs. 832 mL, p  < 0.001) and higher rate of the composite maternal morbidity (19.1 vs. 5.6%, p  = 0.001). Additionally, women with extensions had an increased risk of postpartum hemorrhage ≥ 1 L (53.2 vs. 23.8%, p  < 0.001) and 1.5 L (12.7 vs. 0%, p  < 0.001) and were associated with prolonged length of hospital stay (29 vs. 17%, p  = 0.04)., Conclusion: Uterine extensions are associated with adverse maternal outcomes including higher EBL and increase in maternal morbidity., Competing Interests: L.D.L. reports consultant work on induction of labor from Sudler and Hennessey, outside the submitted work. All the other authors report no conflict of interest., (Thieme Medical Publishers 333 Seventh Avenue, New York, NY 10001, USA.) more...

This is a cross-sectional study to assess the presence of antibodies in ruminants against selected pathogens associated with reproductive disorders in cattle in four Brazilian states, including the zoonotic agent Coxiella burnetii. The used tests were Virus Neutralization Assay for IBR and BVD, Microscopic Agglutination Test for Leptospira spp., Indirect Fluorescent Antibody Test (IFAT) for C. burnetii and Toxoplasma gondii, and Enzyme-Linked Immunosorbent Assay for Neospora caninum and Trypanosoma vivax. Seropositivity for C. burnetii was 13.7% with titers from 128 to 131,072; 57.8% for BoHV-1, with titers between 2 and 1,024; 47.1% for BVDV-1a, with titers from 10 to 5,120; 89.2% for N. caninum; 50% for T. vivax; and 52.0% for Leptospira spp., with titers between 100 to 800 (the following serovars were found: Tarassovi, Grippotyphosa, Canicola, Copenhageni, Wolffi, Hardjo, Pomona and Icterohaemorrhagiae); 19.6% for T. gondii with titer of 40. This is the first study that has identified C. burnetii in cattle associated with BoHV and BVDV, N. caninum, Leptospira spp., T. gondii and T. vivax. Thus, future studies should be conducted to investigate how widespread this pathogen is in Brazilian cattle herds. more...

Background: Endometritis is a postpartum complication that is more common after cesarean delivery. It frequently requires intravenous antibiotic administration, prolonged hospital stays, and carries a risk of sepsis or abscess formation. Precesarean vaginal preparation has been shown to decrease the risk of endometritis in patients who have labored or have ruptured membranes., Objective: The objective of this study was to assess the practical implementation of a protocol for vaginal cleansing prior to cesarean delivery and the subsequent effect on endometritis rates in a clinical setting., Study Design: This is a before-after retrospective cohort study evaluating the first 6 months of implementation of a vaginal cleansing protocol at a single institution. The primary outcome was the rate of implementation. Secondary outcomes included endometritis and other postoperative complications., Results: The rate of implementation after 6 months was 68.3% (p < .001) and postoperative endometritis rates decreased from 14.0% before implementation to 11.7% after implementation (p .49, OR 0.77, CI 0.36-1.62). Postoperative fever decreased from 22.3% to 18.3% (p .256, OR 0.70, CI 0.37-1.30) and infectious wound complications were 4.5% and 5.8%, respectively (p .76, OR 1.07, CI 0.69-3.64)., Conclusions: Implementation of a protocol for vaginal cleansing prior to cesarean delivery in women with ruptured membranes or in labor has high uptake, but in almost a third of eligible women it was not performed. The implementation, has led to a clinical, although not statistical, decrease in postoperative endometritis. Continued research is needed to explore how to improve uptake of this quality improvement measure. more...

Objective: To evaluate outcomes with expectant management of preterm prelabor rupture of membranes (PROM) until 35 weeks versus immediate delivery at ≥34 weeks., Study Design: This was a multicenter retrospective cohort study of singletons with preterm PROM at >20 weeks from 2011 through 2017. Groups were defined as expectant management until 35 weeks versus immediate delivery at ≥34 weeks. Primary outcome was composite neonatal morbidity: need for respiratory support, culture positive neonatal sepsis, or antibiotic administration for >72 hours. Univariate and general estimating equation models were used with p  < 0.05 considered significant., Results: A total of 280 mother-infant dyads were included. There was no difference in composite neonatal outcome in pregnancies managed with expectant management compared with immediate delivery (43.4 vs. 37.5%; p  = 0.32). Those with expectant management had shorter length of neonatal intensive care unit (NICU) admission but higher rates of neonatal antibiotics for > 72 hours, endometritis, and histological chorioamnionitis. There were no cases of fetal demise, neonatal death, or maternal sepsis, and only three cases of neonatal sepsis., Conclusion: There is no difference in composite neonatal morbidity in pregnancies with preterm PROM managed with expectant management until 35 weeks as compared with immediate delivery at 34 weeks. Expectant management is associated with a decreased length of NICU admission but increased short-term infectious morbidity., Competing Interests: None declared., (Thieme Medical Publishers 333 Seventh Avenue, New York, NY 10001, USA.) more...

Objective: To assess whether prolonged induction of labor was associated with increased maternal or neonatal morbidity., Study Design: We performed a retrospective cohort study of women undergoing induction of labor at a single institution. We included women with singletons ≥ 36 weeks with initial cervical dilation ≤4 cm. Prolonged induction of labor was defined as lasting > 36 hours from the time of initial method to delivery. A 2-to-1 propensity score-matched analysis was performed between women with and those without prolonged induction of labor. Maternal outcomes were cesarean delivery, chorioamnionitis, endometritis, postpartum hemorrhage, severe perineal laceration, and length of postpartum admission. Neonatal outcomes included Apgar scores, umbilical artery pH, and neonatal intensive care admission., Results: Among 2,021 women, 407 (20.1%) had a prolonged induction. In unadjusted analyses, prolonged induction of labor was associated with increased cesarean delivery and chorioamnionitis. After 2-to-1 propensity score matching, there were 267 women with prolonged induction and 424 controls. Women with prolonged induction of labor had higher rates of cesarean delivery (35.6 vs. 16%, p  < 0.001), chorioamnionitis (14.2 vs. 4.7%, p  < 0.001), endometritis (6.4 vs. 1.9%, p  = 0.002), and postpartum hemorrhage (18.8 vs. 11.9%, p  = 0.008). There were no significant differences in neonatal outcomes., Conclusion: Overall length of induction impacts maternal outcome., Competing Interests: None., (Thieme Medical Publishers 333 Seventh Avenue, New York, NY 10001, USA.) more...

During the past decade, there has been an increase in the awareness of infections associated with pregnancy and delivery. The most significant cause of post-partum infection is caesarean section; 20-25% of operations are followed by wound infections, endometritis or urinary tract infections. Approximately 13% of women in the UK undergo operative vaginal delivery (OVD) with forceps or vacuum, which is also associated with an increased risk of infection, estimated at 0.7%-16% of these deliveries. Despite this, previous reviews have identified only one small trial of antibiotic prophylaxis in 393 women and concluded that there was insufficient evidence to support the routine use of prophylactic antibiotics after OVD. The ANODE trial, a multicentre, blinded, placebo-controlled trial from the UK, is due to report findings from more than 3400 women in 2019 and will be the largest study to date of antibiotic prophylaxis following OVD., (Copyright © 2018. Published by Elsevier Ltd.) more...

Endometritis, inflammation of the endometrium, is a common reproductive obstacle disease that can lead to infertility in female animals. Astragaloside IV (AS IV), one of the major and active components of the Astragalus membranaceus (Fisch.) Bunge, is known for its anti-inflammatory effects. In the present study, the effects and mechanisms of AS IV on lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-induced endometritis were investigated using a mouse model. Female mice were prepared with AS IV (0.01 mg/g) by gavage for six days before being stimulated with LPS. The results showed that the histopathological changes, levels of inflammatory cytokines (IL-1β and TNF-α), concentration of NO, and myeloperoxidase (MPO) activity in LPS-induced uteri were attenuated significantly by pretreatment with AS IV. Furthermore, LPS-induced activations of NF-κB, p38, and JNK signal pathways were suppressed by pretreatment with AS IV. In conclusion, the data provided new evidence that AS IV effectively attenuates LPS-induced endometritis through inhibition of TLR4-mediated NF-κB, p38, and JNK signaling pathways, implying that AS IV might become a promising potential anti-inflammatory agent for endometritis and other inflammatory diseases., Competing Interests: The authors declare no conflict of interest. more...

Objective: The objective of this study is to evaluate whether omission of intrauterine cleaning increases intraoperative and postoperative complications among women who deliver via cesarean section., Methods: We randomized 206 women undergoing primary elective cesarean deliveries to intrauterine cleaning or omission of cleaning. Postpartum endomyometritis rates across groups were the primary outcome. We also examined secondary outcomes. To detect a 20% difference in infection rate between the cleaned and the non-cleaned groups (two-tailed [alpha] = 0.05, [beta] = 0.2), 103 women were required per group. Analysis was by intention-to-treat., Results: Two hundred and six were randomized as follows: 103 to intrauterine cleaning and 103 to omission of cleaning after placental delivery. There were no statistically significant differences in the rate of endomyometritis between the two groups (2.0% versus 2.9%, RR =0.60; 95% CI 0.40-1.32). There were no statistically significant differences in postpartum hemorrhage rates (5.8% versus 7.7%, RR 0.75; 95% CI 0.6-1.2), hospital readmission rates (2.9 versus 3.8%, RR 0.75; 95% CI 0.5-1.6), time to return of gastrointestinal function, need for repeat surgery, or quantitated blood loss between the two groups., Conclusions: Our randomized controlled trial provides evidence suggesting that omission of intrauterine cleaning during cesarean deliveries in women at low risk of infection does not increase intraoperative or postoperative complications. more...

In women, pelvic actinomycosis is closely associated with prolonged use of the intrauterine devices (IUD). A 70-year old female presented with intermittent blood-stained vaginal discharge. An analysis of her history revealed, she was inserted with an IUD 42 years ago, but it has remained in situ untill now. Curettage of the uterus was done, but an IUD was firmly attached inside the cavity and there was not able to remove it. A biopsy material consisted of the large round and oval granules of filamentous and mycelium-like microorganisms. They showed strong positivity with Periodic acid-Schiff stain and Gömöri methenamine silver stain. Histopathology was consisted with uterine actinomycosis. A total abdominal hysterectomy with bilateral adnexectomy was performed. The uterus contained a retained plastic IUD. Microscopic investigation revealed a diffuse chronic active endomyometritis with sporadic Actinomycetes colonies. Wearing an IUD continuously for very long periods of time can lead to actinomycotic infection, which may manifest for many years after its application. All IUD users have to keep in mind regular gynecological check-ups to avoid the complications of a retained and "forgotten" IUD. more...

Recurrent implantation failure (RIF) refers to cases in which women have had three failed in vitro fertilization (IVF) attempts with good quality embryos. The definition should also take advanced maternal age and embryo stage into consideration. The failure of embryo implantation can be a consequence of uterine, male, or embryo factors, or the specific type of IVF protocol. These cases should be investigated to determine the most likely etiologies of the condition, as this is a complex problem with several variables. There are multiple risk factors for recurrent implantation failure including advanced maternal age, smoking status of both parents, elevated body mass index, and stress levels. Immunological factors such as cytokine levels and presence of specific autoantibodies should be examined, as well as any infectious organisms in the uterus leading to chronic endometritis. Uterine pathologies such as polyps and myomas as well as congenital anatomical anomalies should be ruled out. Sperm analysis, pre-implantation genetic screening and endometrial receptivity should be considered and evaluated, and IVF protocols should be tailored to specific patients or patient populations. Treatment approaches should be directed toward individual patient cases. In addition, we suggest considering a new initial step in approach to patients with RIF, individualized planned activities to activate the brain's reward system in attempt to improve immunological balance in the body. more...

Background: Surgical site infection (SSI) following caesarean section is a problem for women and health services. Caesarean section is a high volume procedure and the estimated incidence of SSI may be as high as 9%., Objectives: The objective of this study was to identify a suite of perioperative strategies and surgical techniques that reduce the risk of SSI following caesarean section., Search Strategy: Six electronic databases were searched to systematically review literature reviews, systematic reviews and meta-analyses published from 2006 to 2016. Search terms included: endometritis, SSI, caesarean section, meta-analysis, review, systematic., Selection Criteria: Studies were sought in which competing perioperative strategies and surgical techniques relevant for caesarean section were identified and quantifiable infection outcomes were reported. General infection control strategies were excluded., Data Collection and Analysis: Data on study characteristics and clinical effectiveness were extracted. Quality, including bias within individual studies, was examined using a modified A Measurement Tool to Assess Systematic Reviews (AMSTAR) checklist. Recommendations for SSI risk-reducing strategies were developed using the Grading of Recommendations Assessment, Development and Evaluation (GRADE) approach., Main Results: Of 466 records retrieved, 44 studies were selected for the evidence synthesis. Recommended strategies were: administer pre-incision antibiotic prophylaxis, prepare the vagina with iodine-povidone solution and spontaneous placenta removal., Conclusions: We recommend clinicians implement pre-incision antibiotic prophylaxis, vaginal preparation and spontaneous placenta removal as an infection control bundle for caesarean section., Funding: Queensland University of Technology., Tweetable Abstract: Infection control for caesarean: pre-incision AB prophylaxis, vaginal prep, spontaneous placenta removal., (© 2018 Royal College of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists.) more...

The deposition of semen into the uterus of the horse induces a transient innate immune response that lasts 24-36 h in the normal mare. There exists a subset of mares that are unable to resolve this inflammation in a timely manner, and are classified as susceptible to the disease of persistent breeding-induced endometritis (PBIE). Lactoferrin is a protein of interest as a potential therapeutic for this persistent inflammation due to its anti-inflammatory and bactericidal properties. The addition of human recombinant lactoferrin (hrLF) to the insemination dose was previously shown to suppress mRNA expression of the pro-inflammatory cytokine tumor necrosis factor (TNF)-α at 6 h after insemination, but no studies have shown the effect of lactoferrin when infused post-breeding. Therefore, the objectives of this study were to (1) assess the safety of intra-uterine infusion of hrLF, (2) evaluate the effect of intrauterine infusion of hrLF post-breeding as a modulator of the immune response to breeding in the susceptible mare, and (3) determine the most effective concentration of hrLF. For the first experiment four normal mares received an intrauterine infusion of 500 μg/mL hrLF resuspended in 10 mL lactated Ringer's solution (LRS) and heart rate, rectal temperature, respiration, and endometrial quality were evaluated. For the second experiment, six mares classified as susceptible to PBIE were bred during estrus with 500 × 10 6 progressively motile sperm comprised of the ejaculates from two stallions, which were centrifuged over Androcoll-E to remove seminal plasma. Each insemination dose was resuspended in 30 mL LRS. Six hours after breeding, a 1L LRS uterine lavage was performed prior to treatments. Four treatments were administered over four consecutive estrous cycles in randomized order of: 10 mL LRS (vehicle control), 50 μg/mL hrLF resuspended in 10 mL LRS, 250 μg/mL hrLF resuspended in 10 mL LRS, and 500 μg/mL hrLF resuspended in 10 mL LRS. Twenty-four hours after breeding the mares were evaluated via transrectal ultrasonography for fluid retention. A low volume uterine lavage (250 mL LRS) was performed and the effluent was evaluated for polymorphonuclear neutrophils (PMNs). Finally, an endometrial biopsy was obtained for qPCR analysis of selected inflammatory cytokines. Lactoferrin had no significant overall effect on vital signs or endometrial quality. The addition of hrLF (50 μg/mL, 250 μg/mL, 500 μg/mL) did not significantly affect the amount of fluid detected post-breeding, but suppressed the ratio of PMNs to epithelial cells at all three concentrations compared to controls. In addition, all three concentrations of hrLF increased the mRNA expression of the anti-inflammatory cytokine interleukin-1 receptor antagonist (IL-1RN), while the 50 μg/mL dose significantly suppressed mRNA expression of the pro-inflammatory cytokine interferon gamma (IFNγ). In conclusion, the infusion of hrLF post-breeding was found to modulate the inflammatory response to breeding in the mare, and appears to be most effective at the 50 μg/mL concentration., (Copyright © 2018. Published by Elsevier Inc.) more...

The purpose was to evaluate the association between maternal characteristics, obstetrical interventions/complications and postpartum wound infections (WI), urinary tract infection (UTI) and endometritis. Furthermore, this study aimed to determine the time from delivery to onset of infections after discharge from the hospital. Three large Swedish Medical Health Registers were scrutinized for the period 2005-2012. A total of 582,576 women had 795,072 deliveries. Women with diagnosis codes for WIs, UTIs or endometritis, from delivery to 8 weeks postpartum, were compared to non-infected women. Adjusted odds ratios (OR) and 95% confidence intervals (CI) were estimated. Increasing age and body mass index (BMI) were both associated with increasing prevalence of postpartum infections. WIs were most strongly associated with cesarean section (CS) (OR 17.2; 95%CI 16.1-18.3), 3rd and 4th degree tears (OR 10.7%; 95%CI 9.80-11.9) and episiotomy (OR 10.2; 95%CI 8.94-11.5). Endometritis was associated with anemia (OR 3.16; 95%CI 3.01-3.31) and manual placental removal (OR 2.72; 95%CI 2.51-2.95). UTI was associated with emergency CS (OR 3.46; 95%CI 3.07-3.89) and instrumental delivery (OR 3.70; 95%CI 3.29-4.16). For women discharged from the delivery hospital the peak occurrence of UTI was 6 days postpartum, while for WIs and endometritis it was 7 days postpartum. more...

Background: Serious unintended outcomes (SUOs) associated with cesarean section (CS), defined in this study as sepsis, endometritis, or wound disruption, occurring during the admission to deliver an infant by CS, or on readmission for wound disruption, are not routinely measured in a manner that continuously evaluates their impact on women's health., Methods: The Texas Healthcare Information Collection Public Use Data File was used to investigate trends in the diagnosis of SUOs over a 5-year period from January 1, 2010-December 31, 2014., Results: CS-associated SUOs affected 9.24 women for every 1,000 CSs. During the study period, a large decrease in the rate of SUOs occurred (R 2  = 0.60). This was potentially influenced by a large decrease in the rate of endometritis (R 2  = 0.41). Decreases in the diagnosis of and readmission for CS wound disruption were not as large (R 2  = 0.06 and R 2  = 0.03, respectively). A large increase in CS-associated sepsis (R 2  = .32) was identified. Administrative coded data used to identify SUOs in this study may have utility for the identification of serious unintended outcomes associated with CS at the population level., Conclusions: Increases in length of stay and utilization of critical care were noted among women affected by CS-associated SUOs. Additional study is needed to determine factors that increase the likelihood of the development of SUO and to evaluate the preventability of these events., (Copyright © 2018 Association for Professionals in Infection Control and Epidemiology, Inc. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.) more...