Premature rupture of membranes

Overview
Premature rupture of membranes (PROM) is a condition which occurs in pregnancy when the amniotic sac ruptures before the onset of labor. A related term is pPROM which stands for preterm premature rupture of the membranes. This occurs when the rupture happens before 37 weeks gestation and before labor.

PPROM
Preterm premature rupture of membranes (PPROM) is a condition where the amniotic sac leaks fluid before 37 weeks of gestation. This can be caused by a bacterial infection or by a defect in the structure of the amniotic sac, uterus, or cervix. In some cases, the leak can spontaneously heal, but in most cases of PPROM, labor begins within 48 hours of membrane rupture. When this occurs, it is necessary that the mother receive treatment to avoid possible infection in the newborn.