A review of randomized clinical trials of antibiotic therapy in preterm premature rupture of the membranes

Rupture of membranes before 37 completed weeks of gestation, and before the onset of contractions occurs among 2-3% of pregnancies, and in about 30%-40% of women who deliver preterm. It is known as preterm premature rupture of membranes (PPROM) and is associated with maternal and neonatal morbidity. It has been postulated that antibiotic therapy may significantly decrease the complications associated with infection. The aim of the present review is to summarize the available data about the value of antibiotic therapy in PPROM.