Epidemiologic Study of Cervical Swab Culture in Preterm Premature Rupture of Membrane (PPROM) at Ramathibodi Hospital

Abstract

Objective: To investigate the incidence and results of cervical swab culture in pregnant women with preterm premature rupture of membrane (PPROM) at Ramathibodi Hospital and their management.
Materials and Methods: Rate of cervical swab culture among cases of PPROM, types of organisms found
and management compared with management protocol of the Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology Ramathibodi Hospital.
Results: Cervical swab culture was done in 64.7% of pregnant women with PPROM and 82% of cases received antibiotics. The most common organism was Gardnerella vaginalis (34.8%). Group B Streptococcus (GBS) colonization was found in 6.8% of cases. One case of newborn was dead from GBS infection.
Conclusion The rate of GBS colonization was low in comparison with other studies. The rate of performing swab culture and prescribing antibiotics were not consistent with management protocol of Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology Ramathibodi Hospital. Management protocol should be improved in system implementation and compliance of personnel.