What is the recommended treatment for postpartum fever due to Mycoplasma hominis?

Postpartum fever caused by Mycoplasma hominis is best treated with tetracycline. This bacterium is known for its resistance to many common antibiotics, particularly beta-lactams like penicillin, as it lacks a cell wall. Tetracycline is effective against Mycoplasma species due to its ability to target protein synthesis within the bacterial cell. It inhibits the 30S ribosomal subunit which is crucial for bacterial growth and reproduction.

While erythromycin may also exhibit some activity against atypical bacteria, including Mycoplasma, tetracycline remains the preferred choice in this context. Additionally, penicillin G and second-generation cephalosporins are not effective against Mycoplasma hominis because they target bacterial cell wall synthesis, which is not applicable for this genus. Therefore, tetracycline is the most appropriate and effective choice for treating postpartum infections caused by Mycoplasma hominis.