Rupture of membranes (ROM) is a term used during pregnancy to describe a rupture of the amniotic sac at the onset of, or during, labour. A premature rupture of membranes (PROM) is a rupture that occurs prior to the onset labour.

Maternal risk factors for a premature rupture of membranes include chorioamnionitis or sepsis. Fetal factors include prematurity, infection, cord prolapse, or malpresentation.

Assessment of a rupture of membranes involves taking a proper medical history, a gynecological exam using a speculum, nitrazine, cytologic (ferning) tests, and ultrasound.

In terms premature rupture of membranes situations, spontaneous labour should be permitted, with an induction of labour at approximately 6 hours if it has not already begun, and Group B Streptococcal prophylaxis at 18 hours.

In premature birth premature rupture of membranes, antibiotic therapy should be given to decrease the risk of sepsis. Ampicillin or erythromycin should be administered for 7 days, and antenatal steriods if the gestational age is less than 30 weeks. Tocolysis is also used, though its use in this context is controversial. The mother should be admitted to hospital and put under careful surveillance for preterm labour and chorioamnionitis. Induction of labour should happen at around 36 weeks.

Types

• PROM = prelabor or premature rupture of membranes
• PPROM = preterm, premature rupture of membranes
• AROM = artificial rupture of membranes
• SROM = spontaneous rupture of membranes

External links

• Merck Manual: Premature rupture of membranes

Obstetrics