Can PPROM be prevented?

PPROM means the membranes around the baby rupture before labour begins and before the pregnancy reaches term. It may feel like a gush or a continuing trickle of watery fluid, and it can be difficult to distinguish from urine or normal discharge. Previous membrane rupture, infection, bleeding, cervical changes, smoking and some pregnancy complications can affect risk.

Attend antenatal appointments, tell your maternity team about previous preterm birth or membrane problems, and seek advice for unusual discharge, itching, burning urine, bleeding or pelvic pressure. Avoid smoking and follow treatment advice for infections or medical conditions. Do not put anything in the vagina after suspected fluid loss until assessed. If PPROM occurs, monitoring and medicines such as an antenatal steroid injection may be discussed.

Call your maternity unit promptly for a gush or ongoing leak of fluid, even without pain. Seek urgent assessment for fever, chills, abdominal tenderness, contractions, bleeding, reduced fetal movement or fluid that is green, brown or foul-smelling. Do not wait for labour symptoms, because infection and premature birth need timely review.

What risk factors apply to my pregnancy? How can I tell fluid loss from discharge? What monitoring would I need after PPROM, and when might induction of labour be considered?