Prevalence of and Factors Associated with Puerperal Sepsis Among Postpartum Women at A Regional Referral in Uganda
Keywords:
prevalence, puerperal sepsis, antibiotic prophylaxis, caesarian section, aseptic techniqueAbstract
Background:
Puerperal sepsis remains a significant contributor to maternal mortality and morbidity in Uganda despite
government efforts to improve prevention and management through the provision of supplies, equipment, and
training for healthcare workers.
Aim:
This study aimed to assess the prevalence of puerperal sepsis and identify associated factors among postpartum
women in LRRH, Lira City
Method:
An institutional-based cross-sectional study design was employed to systematically recruit 230 study participants
from March 2023 to May 2023. The study included all postpartum mothers in the postnatal ward who were willing
to participate, excluding those who were critically ill and could not communicate. Any mother who presented with
three or more signs and symptoms was considered to be infected. Data was entered into SPSS version 26 for AND
analyzed using descriptive and inferential statistics with a p-value of <0.05 and a CI of 95%.
Results:
The prevalence of puerperal sepsis was high (9.1%). Of this, almost all (90.5%) were delivered from the hospital, and
the majority (66.7%) were delivered by caesarean section.
Conclusion and recommendation:
Puerperal sepsis is high in the study area. Place of delivery, antibiotic prophylaxis, mode of delivery, and antenatal
care attendance were significant factors. Proper spacing of postnatal beds, administration of antibiotic prophylaxis
before invasive procedures, managing risk factors that lead to caesarean section, and promoting antenatal care
attendance will help reduce the prevalence of puerperal sepsis.
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Copyright (c) 2026 Ocepa Amos, Adur Brenda, Apili Felister, Ayugi Winnifred P, Adoko Denis Diko (Author)
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