Premature Rupture of Membranes (PROM) and Preterm Premature Rupture of Membranes (PPROM): What You Need to Know

Premature Rupture of Membranes (PROM) and Preterm Premature Rupture of Membranes (PPROM): What You Need to Know

Premature rupture of membranes (PROM) and preterm premature rupture of membranes (PPROM) are common conditions during pregnancy that can be dangerous for both mother and baby. This article will provide basic information about these two conditions, helping you understand their causes, symptoms, diagnosis, and treatment.

1. Premature Rupture of Membranes (PROM):

• Definition: PROM is the condition where the amniotic sac breaks before the 38th week of pregnancy, but before labor begins.

• Causes:

• Chorioamnionitis: This is the most common cause, and it can be prevented.

• Incompetent cervix: This is caused by birth defects or by procedures that have been performed on the cervix.

• Polyhydramnios: This is when there is too much amniotic fluid, putting pressure on the amniotic sac.

• Abnormal fetal presentation: The baby is positioned abnormally, putting pressure on the amniotic sac.

• Multiple gestation: Twins or triplets are more likely to experience PROM.

• Symptoms:

• Clear vaginal discharge that is odorless.

• A feeling of wetness in the vaginal area.

• Large amounts of amniotic fluid leaking, soaking through sanitary pads continuously.

• Diagnosis:

• Vaginal exam: The doctor will feel for amniotic fluid leaking from the cervix.

• Ferning test: Amniotic fluid will have a fern-like pattern under a microscope.

• Ultrasound: This checks the amount of amniotic fluid and the baby’s position.

• Pad test: The doctor will monitor the amount of amniotic fluid leaking.

• Treatment:

• Antibiotics: This helps to prevent infection.

• Corticosteroids: These help to mature the baby’s lungs if the baby is premature.

• Monitoring: This includes monitoring the baby’s heart rate, temperature, and signs of infection.

• Waiting for labor to begin naturally: If the baby is full-term and there are no signs of infection.

• Induction of labor: If the baby is full-term and there are signs of infection, or if the baby is premature but has a high risk of infection.

• Cesarean section: This may be necessary if the baby is premature and has a high risk of infection, or if there are other complications that are dangerous for the mother and baby.

2. Preterm Premature Rupture of Membranes (PPROM):

• Definition: PPROM is the condition where the amniotic sac breaks before the second stage of labor.

• Causes:

• Chorioamnionitis: This is the main cause.

• Incompetent cervix: This is caused by birth defects or by procedures that have been performed on the cervix.

• Polyhydramnios: This is when there is too much amniotic fluid, putting pressure on the amniotic sac.

• Abnormal fetal presentation: The baby is positioned abnormally, putting pressure on the amniotic sac.

• Multiple gestation: Twins or triplets are more likely to experience PPROM.

• Symptoms:

• Clear vaginal discharge that is odorless.

• A feeling of wetness in the vaginal area.

• Large amounts of amniotic fluid leaking, soaking through sanitary pads continuously.

• Diagnosis:

• Vaginal exam: The doctor will feel for amniotic fluid leaking from the cervix.

• Ferning test: Amniotic fluid will have a fern-like pattern under a microscope.

• Ultrasound: This checks the amount of amniotic fluid and the baby’s position.

• Pad test: The doctor will monitor the amount of amniotic fluid leaking.

• Treatment:

• Induction of labor: This will be done after ensuring that the baby is full-term and that it is safe for the mother and baby.

• Monitoring: This includes monitoring the baby’s heart rate, temperature, and signs of infection.

• Antibiotics: This helps to prevent infection.

• Cesarean section: This may be necessary if there are complications that are dangerous for the mother and baby.

3. Preventing PROM and PPROM:

• Control infections: Get regular prenatal check-ups and treat urinary tract infections promptly.

• Limit procedures on the cervix: These should only be performed when absolutely necessary.

• Follow your doctor’s instructions: This includes following their advice about diet, rest, and exercise.

4. Important Notes:

• PROM and PPROM are serious conditions that can cause infection, fetal distress, and preterm birth.

• If you suspect that you have PROM or PPROM, go to the hospital immediately for diagnosis and treatment.

• Always stay in touch with your doctor so they can monitor you closely throughout your pregnancy.

This article is for informational purposes only, and it does not replace medical advice. Consult with your doctor for proper diagnosis and treatment.