Risk Factors Associated with Early Preterm Premature Rupture of Membranes in Women with and without Early Preterm Premature Rupture of Membranes in Cameroon

Abstract

Background: Preterm premature rupture of the membrane is an important cause of preterm birth. It often results in high perinatal morbidity and mortality in low-income nations. This study evaluated the risk factors associated with early PPROM among participants in Cameroon. Methods: This multi-centric case-control study was conducted in Douala and Yaoundé. We enrolled 125 participants with (cases) and 125 others without (controls) Preterm premature rupture of membrane. Consented participants were asked to fill in a structured questionnaire and data on their socio-demographic, physical, and clinical variables were collected. Descriptive statistic was carried out on SPSS version 23 to provide frequencies and percentages of respective parameters; also the Logistic regression was computerized to identify independent associations between participant’s characteristics, risk factors, and PPROM (Odds ratio at 95% CI, p< 0.05). Results: There were similarities in the characteristics of participants except for their profession whereby, the unemployed were more likely to be cases than controls [OR= 1.99; 95%CI: 1.20- 3.31; p= 0.007]. Among participants with PPROM, cases were more likely to have had a previous PPROM than controls [OR= 4.74 CI 95%: 1.08-20.79; p= 0.001]. Regarding their infection status, cases were more likely to have had Chlamydia Trachomatis infection [OR= 16.58; CI 95%: 3.08- 89.32; p= 0.001), or Bacterial vaginosis infection [OR= 16.58; CI 95%: 1.18-232.31; p= 0.001] than controls. Conclusion: Participants with the history of PPROM, Chlamydia Trachomatis infections and Bacterial vaginosis were more likely to have PPROM. As part of the preventive measure for a healthy pregnancy, pregnant women are advised to attend the antenatal clinic.