Antibiotic prophylaxis in premature rupture of membranes: maternal and fetal outcome

The purpose of the study was to evaluate the effectiveness of Amoxycilline Clevulinate [Augmentin] as a prophylaxis against maternal and neonatal infections in P.R.O.M. Thirty-Five pregnant patients with gestational ages between 28-34 weeks, with a definitely diagnosed rupture of the fetal membranes were included in the study. They were divided into two groups: First: [20 cases] were given Augmentin 625 mg. tablet /12 hours for 5 days. Second: [15 cases] managed conservatively without antibiotics. Both groups were studied for prolongation of pregnancy, bacteriological examination of post partum endo uterine and neonatal nasopharyngeal swabs. Patients of the study group showed a significant prolongation of pregnancy than the control group. The mean duration of the period from the onset of R.O.M. till delivery was 5 days in the study group and 2.5 days in the controls [P< 0.05]. Bacteriological examination of uterine swabs showed a significant reduction of the incidence of [+ve] cultures in the study group [+ve swabs in 55%] than the control group [+ve swabs in 93%]. Neonatal naso-pharyngeal cultures showed a significant reduction of +ve cultures in the study group [in 40% of patients] than in the control group [80% of patients]. Augmentin therapy in patients with P.R.O.M. can significantly reduce the incidence of both maternal and neonatal infectious morbidity besides allowing for more prolongation of pregnancy giving the chance for better fetal maturation