DOI: https://doi.org/10.36347/sjams.2026.v14i05.029

Pages: 818-824

Background: Preterm prelabor rupture of membranes (PPROM) is a common obstetric problem and an important cause of maternal and perinatal morbidity and mortality. It complicates about 2%–3% of pregnancies before 37 completed weeks and contributes significantly to preterm birth. PPROM is commonly associated with infection, poor socioeconomic condition, malnutrition, previous obstetric complications and cervical or uterine abnormalities. Objective: To determine the incidence, risk factors and fetomaternal outcomes of PPROM. Methods: This descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted in the Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Sir Salimullah Medical College and Mitford Hospital, Dhaka, from April 2013 to October 2013. A total of 50 pregnant women with PPROM between 28+0 and 36+6 weeks of gestation were enrolled by purposive sampling technique. Data were collected using a pretested structured questionnaire and analyzed using SPSS version 22. Descriptive statistics were used to present the findings. Results: The mean age was 27.24±6.28 years, and most were multigravida (62%). Half of the women had no antenatal care, and only 10% received regular antenatal care. The mean gestational age was 34.74±2.27 weeks, with most cases occurring between 35+0 and 36+6 weeks. Previous adverse obstetric or gynecological history was present in 56% of women. Urinary tract infection (34%), anaemia (26%) and lower genital tract infection (12%) were the common associated conditions. The mean latency period was 18.87±16.19 hours, and the mean interval between membrane rupture and delivery was 27.60±21.12 hours. Vaginal delivery occurred in 84% of cases. Neonatal complications included birth asphyxia (42%), neonatal jaundice (22%), respiratory distress syndrome (12%) and neonatal sepsis (8%). Maternal complications occurred in 32% of women, with chorioamnionitis being the commonest complication (14%). Conclusion: PPROM is associated with infection, poor antenatal care and adverse fetomat