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 alpha1-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.