Original Research Article The Association between Bacterial Infections Including Bacterial Vaginosis and Premature Rupture of Membranes

Background: Premature rupture of membranes (PROM) occur approximately in 10 % of all deliveries and responsible for maternal and fetal complications. Epidemiological data demonstrate an association between colonization of genital tract, by bacterial infections and increased risk of PROMs. PROMs tend to recur in subsequent pregnancies offers an opportunity for prevention. Aim: To evaluate the association between bacterial infections including BV and PROM. Materials and methods: Study group included 80 pregnant women with C/o leakage of liquor, with gestational age (GA) between 28-40wks. Control group included gestational age and parity matched 80 pregnant women without leakage of liquor. In both groups 40 women had GA of <37wks and 40 had GA between 37-40wks. After confirmation of rupture of membranes, high vaginal swabs were collected. After preparing smears, swabs were inoculated on mannitol salt agar, sheep Blood agar, MacConKey agar, chacolate agar and Sabouraud’s dextrose agar. Pathogens were identified by standard methods. Smears were evaluated by Nugent’s criteria for BV. Results: Normal vaginal flora was seen only in 19 pregnant women (23.75%) in study group against 69 (86.25%) of control group. 15 % of study group and 5 % of control group were positive for BV. Pus cell