The aim of this prospective study was to compare serum C-reactive protein (CRP) and leukocytes, hemoglobin, clinical signs, treatment, and outcome among 41 episodes of lactation mastitis grouped by the outcome of bacterial cultivation of breast milk. Group A included 25 cases with positive cultures only for bacteria normally present on skin. Group B included 16 cases in which cultures indicated the presence of potentially pathogenic bacteria. Serious complications were observed among women in group B, including protracted illness and weaning. No complications were observed in group A. Staphylococcus aureus was the most frequently isolated bacteria in group B. Mean serum leukocytes were significantly higher in group B than in group A. Although CRP levels in both groups were elevated, no significant difference was found between groups. Rest and frequent emptying of the breast were curative in group A. Further interventions were necessary for mothers in group B.

EDA during labor may interfere with the release of plasma oxytocin, which may be one mechanism behind prolongation of labor. Larger studies are needed to clarify the effects of epidural analgesia and the role of oxytocin during labor.

Summary. Cultures for Chlamydia trachomatis were obtained from 1012 teenage girls attending an adolescence clinic mainly for family planning; C. trachomatis was isolated from 174 (17·2%). The proportion of chlamydia‐positive girls varied between 15·7% and 28·5% depending whether or not there were symptoms and signs of infection. Neither the history nor the finding at pelvic examination offered conclusive evidence for or against the presence of an infection with C. trachomatis. Of the chlamydia‐positive, untreated, asymptomatic girls, 17·5% developed symptoms of a genital infection within 3 months. There was a statistically significant difference in the proportion of positive cultures by the two investigators, suggesting that the procedure for specimen collection is of great importance.

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