Fetomaternal outcomes in term pregnancies with artificial versus spontaneous rupture of membranes

Background: Artificial rupture of membranes (ARM) is a commonly used intervention in active labor management. Although effective in accelerating labor, its impact on maternal and fetal outcomes remains debated. This study was conducted to compare the feto-maternal outcomes associated with ARM versus spontaneous rupture of membranes (SRM). Methods: This prospective comparative study was conducted on 160 term pregnant women admitted in labor, divided equally into two groups: Group I underwent ARM, and Group II progressed with SRM. Primary outcomes studied included labor duration, mode of delivery, maternal complications (such as postpartum hemorrhage and fever), and fetal outcomes (Apgar score, NICU admission, meconium-stained liquor. Results: The mean duration of labor was significantly shorter in the ARM group (5.63±1.63 hours) compared to the SRM group (6.83±1.27 hours) (p<0.0001). There was no statistically significant difference in cesarean delivery rate, Apgar scores, NICU admissions, or maternal complications between the two groups. Conclusions: Artificial rupture of membranes is a safe and effective method to reduce the duration of labor without increasing maternal or neonatal complications. When performed under aseptic conditions, it can be used reliably in active labor management.