FREQUENCY OF MATERNAL SEPSIS AMONG GRAVID FEMALES WHO HAD VAGINAL DELIVERY TREATED WITH PROPHYLACTIC AZITHROMYCIN

Abstract

Background: Maternal sepsis is a significant contributor to maternal morbidity and mortality globally, accounting for nearly 10% of maternal deaths. The use of prophylactic antibiotics during childbirth has shown promise in reducing infection-related complications. Azithromycin, a broad-spectrum macrolide, has demonstrated efficacy in reducing maternal infections in previous studies. This study evaluates the frequency of maternal sepsis among gravid females who underwent vaginal delivery and were treated with a prophylactic dose of azithromycin.

Objective: To determine the frequency of maternal sepsis among gravid females who had vaginal delivery and were treated with a single prophylactic dose of oral azithromycin.

Methods: This descriptive case series was conducted over six months in the Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology at Jinnah Hospital, Lahore. A total of 140 gravid females, aged 18–40 years, were enrolled using non-probability consecutive sampling. Patients received a single oral dose of 2g azithromycin within six hours of vaginal delivery. They were observed for 24 hours post-delivery, discharged if asymptomatic, and monitored via phone for six days. Maternal sepsis was defined based on clinical symptoms, vital signs, and blood culture results. Data were analyzed using SPSS version 25.

Results: Among 140 participants, 27 women (19.2%) developed maternal sepsis. Of these, 22 (15.7%) had a low-grade fever (99°F), while 5 (3.6%) experienced high-grade fever (≥101°F). The highest recorded temperature was 103°F. The remaining 113 patients (80.7%) remained asymptomatic, reporting no fever or other signs of infection. All patients tolerated azithromycin without adverse effects.

Conclusion: Prophylactic administration of oral azithromycin within six hours of vaginal delivery significantly reduces the risk of maternal sepsis. This intervention is well-tolerated and holds promise for improving maternal outcomes, particularly in settings with limited resources.