10% povidone iodine

10% povidone iodine is a broad-spectrum antiseptic solution composed of a stable chemical complex of polyvinylpyrrolidone (povidone) and elemental iodine. It is widely used for skin and mucosal disinfection due to its potent antimicrobial activity against bacteria, viruses, fungi, and protozoa. In clinical research conducted by Ain Shams Maternity Hospital, this 10% solution is specifically utilized for preoperative vaginal cleansing in women undergoing cesarean sections. The primary objective of this intervention is to reduce the risk of post-cesarean endometritis by decreasing the microbial load in the vaginal canal prior to surgery. The drug functions by the slow release of free iodine, which acts as a non-specific oxidizing agent that destroys essential microbial components, including proteins and nucleic acids.

Brand names

Betadine

Other names

povidone iodinePVP-Iiodopovidonepolyvinylpyrrolidone-iodine