Simple glove change during caesarean births could save NHS millions and improve safety

A new study published in the Journal of Hospital Infection on April 27, 2026, indicates that a straightforward practice of changing surgical gloves after placental delivery during caesarean sections can reduce the risk of surgical site infections by 59%. This clinical evidence suggests that implementing this change could lead to substantial cost savings for the NHS in England, estimated at £45 million over five years, primarily by reducing community midwife post-natal visits and hospital readmissions.