Does induction of labour treat premature rupture of membranes?

Premature rupture of membranes means the amniotic sac breaks before labour begins. The timing of the rupture, pregnancy stage, temperature, symptoms, fetal heart rate and signs of infection all influence the plan. If birth is appropriate, induction can encourage contractions, but it cannot close the opening or replace fluid. If the pregnancy is earlier, the team may recommend hospital observation and medicines instead of immediate induction, depending on the findings.

If you think your waters have broken, use a pad, note the colour and smell of the fluid, and contact your maternity unit promptly. Do not put anything in the vagina unless your clinician tells you to. Follow instructions about temperature checks, monitoring, antibiotics or other medicines. When induction is advised, ask about preparation, contractions and what to bring. See [Induction of Labour](/treatments/pregnancy-and-birth-care/induction-of-labour/).

Get urgent assessment for fever, chills, worsening abdominal or pelvic pain, foul-smelling fluid, vaginal bleeding, regular contractions, or feeling unwell. Contact the unit immediately if the fluid is green or heavily blood-stained, or if your baby’s movements are reduced or changed. These signs can require rapid review of you and your baby.

Ask whether the membranes have definitely ruptured, how far along the pregnancy is, and what monitoring is needed. Clarify why induction is recommended now, what infection signs to watch for, which medicines are planned, and what happens if labour does not begin after the first method.