Clinical Report: Effects of Birth Method and Perinatal Antibiotic Use on Infant Gut Microbiome
Overview
This systematic review and meta-analysis evaluated the impact of birth method and perinatal antibiotic exposure on infant gut microbiota. Findings indicate that caesarean delivery and antibiotic exposure are associated with reduced microbial diversity and altered gut microbiota composition.
Background
The gut microbiota is crucial for immune and metabolic health, with its development beginning at birth. Caesarean delivery and perinatal antibiotic exposure can disrupt this early microbial assembly.
Data Highlights
Eleven studies (n=5309 infants) were included in the analysis, revealing no statistically significant difference in bacterial abundance between vaginally delivered and caesarean-born infants.
Key Findings
Caesarean delivery and perinatal antibiotic exposure were associated with differences in gut microbiota composition and diversity.
No statistically significant difference in bacterial abundance was found between vaginally delivered and caesarean-born infants (mean difference 3.44%, 95% CI −2.00 to 8.89).
Among antibiotic-exposed infants, the mean difference in bacterial abundance was −0.31% (95% CI −3.52 to 2.89).
Exclusive breastfeeding was identified as a modifying factor.
Consistent reductions in microbial diversity and depletion of beneficial taxa like Bacteroides and Bifidobacterium were observed following caesarean birth or antibiotic exposure.
The overall certainty of evidence was very low due to imprecision in estimates and limitations of observational data.
Clinical Implications
These findings highlight the importance of considering birth method and antibiotic use in perinatal care.
Conclusion
The study provides insights into the associations between birth method, antibiotic exposure, and gut microbiota.
