The Acute Phase Response To Parturition: A Cross- Sectional Study In Zimbabwe

Parturition triggers an acute phase response, but its magnitude, duration and predictors are not well described. We determined serum a1-antichymotrypsin (ACT) and C-reactive protein (CRP) among 216 women attending postpartum services in south-eastern Zimbabwe. Serum CRP peaked during the first week and serum ACT around 9 days postpartum. Serum ACT, but not serum CRP, was lower among HIV infected women. Multiparity was a negative, and preterm delivery and caesarean section were positive predictors of both serum ACT and CRP. There is a need for a better understanding of the acute phase response to parturition (Afr J Reprod Health 2009; 13[2]:61-68).