Magnitude and associated factors of premature rupture of membranes among pregnant women admitted to a university comprehensive specialized hospital in Central Ethiopia

Premature rupture of the membrane occurs after the 28th week of gestation and before labor, causing 44% perinatal morbidity and 7% perinatal mortality. It is the leading cause of neonatal death in Ethiopia, with common maternal and neonatal complications such as chorioamnionitis or intraamniotic infection. However, information on the premature rupture of membranes, which is a contributing factor in the study area, is limited. The aim of this study was to assess the magnitude and associated factors of premature rupture of the membrane among pregnant women. A cross-sectional study was conducted among 305 pregnant mothers in the study setting. A systematic random sampling method was used to select records. The data were entered into EpiData 3.1 and analyzed via SPSS 26. Bivariable and multivariable logistic regression analyses with 95% confidence intervals (CIs) were computed to identify predictors of premature rupture of the membrane and were described via adjusted odds ratios (ORs). All variables with p < 0.25 in the binary logistic regression were entered into the multivariable analysis to identify the associated factors. A statistically significant association was declared at p < 0.05. A total of 20.33% (95% CI: 16.17–25.24) of the patients who experienced premature rupture of the membrane had PROM. Being a rural resident (AOR = 3.62; 95% CI: 1.781–7.338), being unable to read and write (AOR = 6.33; 95% CI: 2.41–16.59) and having a birth spacing during the current pregnancy of less than 24 months (AOR = 2.47; 95% CI: 1.203–5.097) were significantly associated with premature rupture of the membrane. The prevalence of premature rupture of membranes in this study was relatively high. Addressing the combination of PROM, birth spacing less than 24 months, low maternal education, and rural residence requires a multifaceted approach.