PPROM pregnancy: what to know

The amniotic fluid cushions the baby and helps provide a protected environment. After the membranes rupture, fluid may leak as a trickle or a larger flow, and the amount can change with movement or position. PPROM is different from the waters breaking after labour has started. The timing of the rupture, your pregnancy stage, your temperature, the baby's heart rate and signs of infection all influence the care plan.

Some pregnancies can be monitored closely for a period, while others need birth sooner. Care may include observation in hospital, checks for infection, medicines when clinically appropriate and discussions about the baby's expected needs.

Contact your maternity unit or urgent pregnancy service as soon as you suspect leaking fluid. Use a clean maternity pad to observe the colour and amount; do not insert a tampon or anything else into the vagina. Note when the leaking began, and avoid sex until a clinician has assessed you. Bring your medication details and pregnancy records if you attend hospital.

Your team may discuss an antenatal steroid injection to support fetal lung development, and may later discuss induction of labour if birth is recommended. Read about [Antenatal Steroid Injection](/treatments/pregnancy-and-birth-care/antenatal-corticosteroid-injection/) and [Induction of Labour](/treatments/pregnancy-and-birth-care/induction-of-labour/).

Seek urgent maternity care for fever or feeling unwell, chills, worsening abdominal or back pain, regular contractions, vaginal bleeding, fluid with an unpleasant smell or a change in the baby's movements. A green or heavily blood-stained discharge also needs immediate assessment. Do not wait for a routine appointment if any of these signs occur.

Ask how the rupture was confirmed, whether you need hospital monitoring, which symptoms should prompt a return, and how fetal wellbeing and infection will be checked. You can also ask how the plan changes if labour starts, if fluid leakage stops, or if your pregnancy reaches a later stage.