PROM pregnancy complications: what to know

Once the membranes have opened, the protective barrier around the baby is changed. Clinicians therefore watch for infection in the uterus, labour beginning early, bleeding, cord problems and changes in fetal wellbeing. The level of concern depends on when the leak occurred, whether fluid continues to drain, examination findings and the baby’s condition. PROM does not determine one outcome for every pregnancy.

Your maternity team may check temperature, pulse, blood tests when indicated, the baby’s heart rate and the fluid history. Keep pads available and report new colour, smell or bleeding. Follow advice about rest, activity, bathing, sex and hospital monitoring because it is tailored to your situation. Antenatal corticosteroid injection may be considered when early birth is a concern, while induction of labour may be discussed if continuing the pregnancy becomes less safe.

Call your maternity unit urgently for fever, chills, feeling faint or unwell, increasing abdominal tenderness, foul-smelling fluid, heavy bleeding, regular contractions or reduced fetal movement. Green or brown fluid also needs prompt assessment. Do not wait for the next planned check if any of these occur.

Ask which complication your team is watching for, how often monitoring is needed, what would change the birth plan, and when steroid treatment or induction would be recommended.