ACTIVE VERSUS CONSERVATIVE MANAGEMENT OF PRELABOUR RUPTURE OF MEMBRANES AT TERM

Objective: To compare maternal and foetal outcome of active versus conservative management of premature rupture of membranes after 37 completed weeks of pregnancy. Methodology: This quasi-experimental study was carried out at Gynae unit, Lady Reading Hospital, Peshawar from September 2004 to September 2005 and included 100 patients out of which 50 were managed conservatively and 50 actively. After confirming the leakage of amniotic fluid, patients were randomized by lottery method to conservative or induced group. The patients in the group that was managed conservatively were shifted to obstetrical ward to await the onset of regular uterine activity for at least 48hrs. After Bishops scoring, patients were induced with vaginal prostaglandin E2 tablet. Both groups received intravenous antibiotics. Results: Total number of patients with PROM at term was 3.84%. Total cost of stay in hospital and management was greater in induced group (P. value 0.05%). Latent time was short in induced group whereas hospital stay was prolonged in induced group. About 80% of patients in conservative group delivered by NVD as compared to 60% in induced group. Among complications mild fever and PPH were significantly (P. value 0.05) more common in conservative group. There was neither neonatal death nor stillbirth in both groups. No statistically significant difference (P. value 0.05) was observed in respect of perinatal outcome and infectious morbidity in babies.Conclusion: Conservative management of PROM at term should be viewed more positively for at least 48hrs under appropriate antibiotic cover and with active management of 3rd stage of Labour