What should you know about prolonged PROM?

PROM is rupture of the amniotic membranes before labour begins. It may happen at term or earlier in pregnancy; PPROM refers to rupture before term. A gush is not required: fluid can trickle, recur after movement, or leave persistent dampness. Urine and discharge can look similar, so a maternity team may use an examination and other tests rather than relying on appearance. They also assess contractions, temperature, fetal movements, fetal heart rate, bleeding, and tenderness.

Call your maternity unit as soon as you suspect your waters have broken, even if the leak is small or has stopped. Wear a clean pad and note the fluid colour and smell. Avoid tampons, vaginal sex, and swimming until assessed, and do not place anything in the vagina. Your team may discuss monitoring, infection precautions, an Antenatal Steroid Injection when appropriate, or Induction of Labour when delivery is advised. Follow the specific plan given to you.

Seek urgent maternity care for fever, chills, feeling unwell, foul-smelling or green fluid, bleeding, worsening abdominal pain, regular contractions, or reduced fetal movement. Treat a visible or felt cord or body part at the vagina as an emergency and call for immediate help.

Ask whether the membranes have been confirmed as ruptured, how you should check your temperature and movements, and which activities to avoid. Ask what findings would lead to admission, antibiotics, steroid treatment, induction, or another birth plan.