Factors & sequel of puerperal sepsis among women delivered at Fort Portal Regional Referral Hospital

Abstract

Puerperal sepsis, defined as infection of the genital tract occurring at any time between the rupture of membranes or the onset of labour, and the 42nd day postpartum is still a major contributor to maternal morbidity and mortality. Despite diagnosis, medical management and antimicrobial therapy for sepsis having significantly advanced, puerperal sepsis remains an important cause of maternal mortality accounting for 10.7% of all maternal deaths annually worldwide. In developing countries, most of the risk factors for development of puerperal sepsis exist and cases of puerperal sepsis have been reported. Adverse outcomes ranging from prolonged length of hospital stay to death do occur. Information about this matter is scarce in Fort-portal and thus this study was about the prevalence, associated factors and outcomes of puerperal sepsis in women delivered at FPRRH. A prospective study design was employed that was based chiefly on record review and case follow-up and that involved 284 women in puerperium at FPRRH. The prevalence of puerperal sepsis was 2.47% with Caesarean Section, PROM, primiparity and comorbid conditions such as HIV/AIDS, DM and anaemia being significant contributors whereas obesity was not significant. Full recovery, PID and mastitis with prolongation of duration of hospital stay were the significant outcomes