Risk Factors of Preterm Premature Rupture of Membranes among Pregnant Women Attending the Obstetrics and Gynecology Service at Abuali Sina Balkhi Teaching Hospital

Abstract

Preterm Premature Rupture of Membranes (PPROM) is a significant complication during pregnancy that can lead to preterm birth, intrauterine infections, and increased maternal and neonatal morbidity and mortality. This study aimed to investigate the factors associated with the occurrence of PPROM among pregnant women attending Abuali Sina Balkhi Teaching Hospital. A descriptive-analytical design was employed involving 80 pregnant women. Data were collected through structured questionnaires and medical records and analyzed using descriptive statistics and the Chi-square test.

The findings revealed that the highest prevalence of PPROM was observed in women aged 20 to 29 years (47.5%). Additionally, 43.75% of the participants were illiterate. Urinary and genital infections were reported in 60% of the cases. Chi-square analysis indicated statistically significant associations between maternal age (P=0.037), educational level (P=0.014), urinary and genital infections (P=0.002), and history of abortion (P=0.009) with the occurrence of PPROM.

In conclusion, PPROM is a multifactorial condition, with infectious factors and low health literacy playing a particularly important role. Therefore, strengthening prenatal care, implementing infection screening, and improving pregnant women’s awareness may play a crucial role in reducing the incidence of this complication.