Abstract:
Premature rupture of membranes is the rupture of the fetal membranes before the
onset of labor. In most cases, this occurs near term, but if occurred earlier (28-37 weeks), it is
considered to be preterm premature rupture of membrane. Since preterm premature rupture of
membranes significant risk for perinatal complications, identification of risk factors is essential.
Objective: To assess the prevalence of preterm premature rupture of membrane and its associated
factors among preterm pregnant women admitted in labor ward of Hiwot Fana Specialized
University Hospital from May 13, 2019 to September 05, 2020.
Methods: A hospital based cross-sectional study was conducted among 449 preterm pregnant
women admitted to labor ward from May 13, 2019 to September 05, 2020. Data on socio
demographic characteristics, obstetric, and clinical conditions were extracted from the medical
records using a structured checklist. The data was entered into EpiData 4.6 and analyzed using
SPSS 25. Frequency, mean with standard deviation, and percentage was used to describe data.
Logistic regression analysis was conducted to identify factors associated with preterm premature
rupture of membrane. Association was described using adjusted odds ratio along with 95%
confidence interval. Finally, p-value <0.05 in the adjusted analysis was considered as statistically
significant.
Results: A total of 449 preterm pregnant mothers were included in the study. The prevalence of
premature rupture of membrane was 14.3% [95%CI:(11.1,17.5)]. Factors associated with
premature rupture of membrane were urinary tract infection [AOR=6.33;95%CI: (3.26,12.29)],
vaginal bleeding [AOR=2.62;95%CI:1.23,5.57)], history of abortion [AOR=
3.07,95%CI:(1.33,7.06)], and MUAC [AOR=7.06;95%CI:(4.02,12.43)].
Conclusion: The prevalence of preterm premature rupture of membrane was high. Urinary tract
infection, vaginal bleeding, previous history of abortion, and mid-upper arm circumference <23
cm were associated with preterm premature rupture of membrane. Early screening and treatment
of urinary tract infections is recommended to reduce the risk of preterm premature rupture of
membrane
