Fetomaternal outcomes in women with preterm premature rupture of membranes: An observational study from Jammu

Abstract

Background: Preterm premature rupture of membranes (PPROM) is a major contributor to preterm births, perinatal morbidity, and mortality, particularly in low-resource settings. It is associated with increased risks of maternal infection and adverse neonatal outcomes due to prematurity and low birth weight. The present study evaluates the fetomaternal outcomes in women diagnosed with PPROM and to identify the prevailing trends in maternal and neonatal morbidity and mortality. Methods: A hospital-based observational study was conducted on 130 women with PPROM admitted to the Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, GMC Jammu. Detailed maternal, obstetric, and neonatal data were recorded and analyzed using descriptive statistics. Results: The majority (51.2%) of women were aged 26-30 years and belonged to lower socioeconomic groups. Most patients delivered vaginally (68.5%), and 76.2% delivered within 24 hours of membrane rupture. The most common maternal complication was febrile morbidity (12.3%), followed by urinary tract infection (4.6%) and postpartum hemorrhage (3.1%). Regarding neonatal outcomes, nearly half (46.9%) of the newborns had birth weights between 2.0-2.5 kg, while 29.2% experienced morbidity mainly birth asphyxia (13.1%) and jaundice (12.3%). A total of 31.5% required NICU admission, and neonatal mortality was 3.1%. Conclusion: PPROM predominantly affects women in their mid-reproductive years and low socioeconomic groups, posing significant risks of maternal infection and neonatal complications. Despite timely care, PPROM continues to contribute notably to perinatal morbidity and mortality.