Prelabor Rupture of Membranes (PROM): What to Know

PROM may cause a sudden gush or a slow, repeated leak of watery fluid. Labour may begin soon or later, and contractions are not required for the membranes to rupture. The fluid can be confused with urine or discharge, so a clinician may need to examine you and test a sample.

When rupture occurs before the pregnancy is full term, it is often discussed alongside preterm labour. Care depends on pregnancy timing, infection concerns, the baby's condition, and whether labour has started.

Call your maternity unit without delay, even if the leak is small. Wear a clean pad, record the start time, and note the colour and smell. Avoid tampons, vaginal sex, and inserting anything into the vagina until you have been assessed. Keep track of contractions, temperature, pain, and the baby's usual movements.

At assessment, the team may check your vital signs, the baby's heartbeat, and whether the membranes have opened. Follow instructions about observation, medicines, and follow-up rather than relying on the amount of fluid alone.

Get urgent maternity help for fever, chills, worsening abdominal tenderness, foul-smelling fluid, heavy bleeding, regular contractions, or reduced baby movements. Green or brown fluid also needs immediate review. Call emergency services for fainting, severe pain, or a visible cord or body part.

Ask whether the membranes are confirmed as ruptured, how the baby's wellbeing will be monitored, what infection symptoms matter, and what activity or bathing advice applies. Clarify the plan for follow-up and which changes mean you should return immediately.