Management of PPROM

PPROM is premature prelabour rupture of the membranes: the fluid-filled sac opens before labour and before the pregnancy reaches term. Fluid may leak as a gush or a continuing dampness. The fluid can be confused with urine or vaginal discharge, so assessment may include an examination and tests. The team also checks your temperature, pulse, pain, bleeding, contractions and the baby’s wellbeing.

Many people with PPROM are monitored closely in hospital or through a specialist maternity plan. Care may include antibiotics to reduce infection risk, antenatal steroid injections to support fetal lung development and medicines or monitoring suited to the pregnancy. The timing of birth depends on gestation, infection, labour, bleeding, fetal wellbeing and other findings. Induction of labour may be discussed when birth is safer than continuing the pregnancy.

If you think your waters have broken early, contact maternity services immediately and use a pad rather than inserting anything into the vagina. Seek urgent review for fever, chills, worsening abdominal pain, foul-smelling fluid, vaginal bleeding, contractions, reduced fetal movement or feeling suddenly unwell. Do not wait for symptoms to become severe.

Ask how PPROM was confirmed, how infection and the baby will be monitored, whether steroid injections or antibiotics are recommended, what activity and bathing advice applies, and which signs mean you should return urgently.