Perinatal outcomes among women with premature rupture of membranes between 24- and 28-weeks gestation in low and middle-income countries: a systematic review

Abstract

Background: Premature rupture of membranes is responsible for 30% of all preterm births and 10% of perinatal deaths around the world. Although it complicates 3 10% of all pregnancies, its prevalence varies from one country to another with low and middle-income countries carrying the highest burden.

Objectives; To describe the perinatal outcomes among women presenting with premature rupture of membranes between 24 to 28 weeks of gestation. To obtain useful information for counselling patients with early onset premature rupture of membranes in low- and middle-income countries.

Methods: Investigators (3) independently extracted published data on perinatal outcomes among women with premature rupture of membranes between 24 to 28 weeks’ gestation among low and middle-income countries.

Data source: PubMed, Cochrane, Google Scholar and POPLINE databases were searched from 2010 to 2022.

Study selection: Women with premature rupture of membranes between 24-28 weeks of gestation.

Data extraction: The study utilized Keywords; Premature Pre-labour Rupture of Membranes, Rupture of Membranes, Maternal and Foetal Outcomes, and 24 to 28 weeks gestation.

Data synthesis: Data synthesis is the process where extracted data findings are combined and evaluated. Of the 37 articles that were found, only 3 met criteria for analysis. The review utilized cohort design. Perinatal survival ranges from 42.8 62.5% among neonates whose mothers experience premature rupture of membranes, leading to neonatal infections (42.9%). 10% of mothers who experience premature rupture of membranes develop sepsis.

Conclusion: Premature rupture of membranes is associated with high incidence of mortality and morbidity, ranging from 42.8 to 62.5%, among neonates.