Keywords
Puerperal infections
Prevention
Clinical practices
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Abstract
Objective: To identify and analyze the most effective strategies for preventing puerperal infections based on current practices and recommendations to reduce their postpartum incidence. Methods: This is an integrative literature review using the PubMed Central (PMC) database. The search strategy involved the term: (("prevent" OR "prevention and control") AND ("puerperal infection"[MeSH Terms] OR ("puerperal")). The initial search resulted in 1,422 articles, of which 16 were selected after applying inclusion and exclusion criteria. Results: Adequate antimicrobial prophylaxis, especially before cesarean sections, strict hygiene practices, and awareness of postnatal care among pregnant women are the main prevention strategies. The review also highlighted factors associated with an increased risk of puerperal infections, including limited knowledge of preventive practices, lack of access to medical care, variations in antibiotic prophylaxis practices, unplanned cesarean sections, prolonged labor or multiple vaginal exams, iron-deficiency anemia, gestational diabetes, maternal obesity, advanced maternal age, in vitro fertilization, inadequate prenatal care, and low birth weight. Final considerations: The implementation of standardized antimicrobial prophylaxis protocols and educational programs for healthcare professionals and pregnant women is necessary, along with an integrated approach to reduce high rates of puerperal infections.
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