Risk factors for preterm premature rupture of membranes at Mulago Hospital, Kampala.

OBJECTIVE

To evaluate the epidemiological risk factors in patients admitted at Mulago Hospital with preterm premature rupture of the membranes from their socio-demographic characteristics and reproductive history.

DESIGN

Cross-sectional case control study.

SETTING

Labour ward, Mulago Hospital, Kampala, Uganda.

METHODS

Cases were enrolled at admission while controls were enrolled after a term delivery not preceded by pre-mature rupture of the membrane (PROM). Controls were matched for age range (age +/- 2 years) and parity with the cases. A detailed history of socio-demographic characteristics, past medical and surgical illness and past reproductive history were obtained and data entered into a coded questionnaire. Endocervical swabs and amniotic fluid samples were taken from the cases during labour. Validity was assessed using Chi-square with a p-value of less than 0.05 considered significant.

RESULTS

Maternal socio-demographic characteristics were similar for cases and controls. A history of hypertension, abortion, prior PROM, Caesarean section, cervical cerclage, cervical incompetence or abnormal vaginal discharge were significant risk factors for preterm PROM (p < 0.05).

CONCLUSION

There are factors by which mothers at risk of preterm PROM can be identified before onset of rupture.