Premature rupture of membranes (PROM) is a condition which occurs in pregnancy when the amniotic sac ruptures more than an hour before the onset of labor. PROM is prolonged when it occurs more than 18 hours before labor. PROM is preterm (PPROM) when it occurs before 37 weeks gestation.[1] Risk factors for PROM can be a bacterial infection, smoking, or anatomic defect in the structure of the amniotic sac, uterus, or cervix. In some cases, the rupture can spontaneously heal, but in most cases of PPROM, labor begins within 48 hours. When this occurs, it is necessary that the mother receive treatment to avoid possible infection in the newborn.[2]
Management
If chorioamnionitis is present at the time of PPROM, antibiotic therapy is usually given to avoid sepsis, and delivery is indicated. If chorioamnionitis is not present, prompt antibiotic therapy can significantly delay delivery, giving the fetus crucial additional time to mature.[3]
References
See also
Placental_alpha_microglobulin-1_(PAMG-1)
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