01.08.12
Caesarean infections can lead to readmission
Young mothers and those who are overweight or obese are at risk of developing an infection following a birth by caesarean section, new research shows.
One in ten women who have the operation develop an infection around their scar, and while many of these are minor, some are so serious mothers have to be readmitted to hospital.
Research published in the British Journal of Obstetrics and Gynaecology indicated women with a BMI over 25 and those aged under 20 are at greater risk of developing infection.
The study of 4,107 women who had a caesarean in one of 14 hospitals in England in 2009 found that 394, or 9.6% developed an infection. Of these women, 348 had “superficial incisional infections” which only affect the skin and surface layers.
However, 19 developed “deep incisional” infections and 27 suffered from organ/space infections, including 25 infections of the womb lining. 23 had to be readmitted to hospital.
The number of women giving birth in this way has risen over recent years, from just 9% in 1980 to 25% in 2009-10.
Medical professionals warn that women should be aware of the risks before having a caesarean section, especially those opting for the operation for non-medical reasons.
Gail Johnson, education and professional development advisor at the Royal College of Midwives, said: “This further supports the need to ensure that any caesarean section is performed only where clinically indicated, following full and detailed discussion with the woman, the midwife and the obstetrician in accordance with NICE guidelines.”
Dr Elizabeth Sheridan, head of healthcare associated infections at the Health Protection Agency, said: “Given that one in four women deliver their baby by caesarean section, these infections represent a substantial burden. They will impact not only directly on the mother and her family but also are a significant cost in terms of antibiotic use, GP time and midwife care, and every effort should be made to avoid them”.
The Department of Health said: “Whether to have a caesarean or not remains a decision that a woman must reach with the health professionals providing her care. Decisions should take NICE guidance into account.”
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