C-reactive protein (CRP) levels after normal and complicated caesarean section.

Serum CRP level was measured in mothers after uncomplicated vaginal and after both uncomplicated and complicated abdominal deliveries. A rapid rise was observed after vaginal delivery, and after abdominal delivery the change was slower but more intense. Postoperative endometritis was detected quite accurately (with cut off level 90 mg/l) with sensitivity of 100% and specificity of 81%. Endometritis and postoperative haematoma could not be distinguished from each other with CRP. The causes of variation of CRP level after vaginal and abdominal delivery are discussed.