Peripartum antibiotic exposure impacts fecal bacterial communities and increases colitis risk in mice. Bacteria

In a genetically susceptible mouse model, maternal antibiotic exposure during the peripartum period leads to persistent changes in microbial community structure, host immune dysfunction, and risk for inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) in offspring. This study has clinical implications that suggest the importance of reconsidering the indiscriminate and empirical use of peripartum antibiotics in order to reduce risk of IBD later in life.