Premature rupture of membranes

Premature rupture of membranes (PROM) is a condition that occurs during pregnancy when the amniotic sac ruptures before labor begins. This can lead to complications such as infection and preterm birth.

Causes

The exact cause of PROM is not known, but several factors have been associated with an increased risk. These include smoking, infection, bleeding, and having had PROM in a previous pregnancy.

Symptoms

The main symptom of PROM is a sudden gush or a slow leak of fluid from the vagina. This fluid, which is usually clear and odorless, is the amniotic fluid that surrounds the baby in the womb.

Diagnosis

PROM is diagnosed through a physical examination and tests to detect amniotic fluid in the vagina. These tests may include a nitrazine test, which checks the pH level of the fluid, and a fern test, which looks for a fern-like pattern when the fluid is allowed to dry on a slide.

Treatment

The treatment for PROM depends on the stage of pregnancy. If the pregnancy is near term, labor may be induced. If the pregnancy is not near term, the mother may be monitored closely for signs of infection and labor.

Complications

Complications of PROM can include infection, preterm birth, and neonatal respiratory distress syndrome.

Prevention

While it is not always possible to prevent PROM, avoiding smoking and treating infections promptly can reduce the risk.

See also

• Preterm labor
• Amniotic fluid embolism
• Chorioamnionitis

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