Presentation by Thomas Dierikx, PhD student, Department of Paediatric Gastroenterology, Amsterdam UMC

Timing of maternal antibiotics during caesarean section on infant microbial colonization and health outcome

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Does the prophylactic use of antibiotics prior to c-section have long-term health effects on the infant?

Exposure to antibiotics is known to influence infant microbiota colonization. Women are administered antibiotics during caesarean section to reduce the risk of infectious complications. According to adjusted NICE guidelines, antibiotics are given prior to skin incision, resulting in unintended antibiotic exposure of the infant to antibiotics. In this presentation, the influence of timing of antibiotic administration to the mother on microbial colonization and long-term health outcome of the child is discussed.