Randomized clinical trial of perioperative cefoxitin in preventing maternal infection after primary cesarean section

To determine the efficacy of perioperative cefoxitin in preventing infections after primary cesarean section, a randomized placebo-controlled, double-blind clinical trial was performed. Among 266 participants, those who received three perioperative 2 gm doses of cefoxitin (138) had significantly fewer serious infections (19.5% vs. 4.3%), fewer urinary tract infections (10.7% vs. 4.4%), less standard febrile morbidity (9.4% vs. 3.6%), and fewer courses of antibiotics postoperatively (23.4% vs. 11.6%). There was no reduction in the length of hospitalization. Use of perioperative cefoxitin was not accompanied by more side effects. Three doses of cefoxitin beginning as soon as the umbilical cord is clamped are safe and efficacious in preventing infection after primary cesarean section.