Premature Rupture of Membranes

When your water breaks and gushes or leaks out of your internal genitalia/ vagina before term (37 weeks gestation) this is called "Preterm Premature Rupture of the Membranes" or "PPROM." When this happens after 37 weeks but before your contractions or labour starts, this is called "Prelabour Rupture of the Membranes" or "PROM." When PPROM or PROM happen, it is important that you notify your health care provider because you are at a higher risk of developing an infection and having a preterm birth.

See the articles linked below to learn more about the signs, what to do, and common treatments for PPROM and PROM.

• My Health Alberta - Course and treatment of preterm premature rupture of membranes

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• The MotHERS Program - Signs, symptoms and frequently asked questions related to preterm prelabour rupture of membranes

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• HealthyFamiliesBC - Pregnancy complications including gestational diabetes, premature rupture of membranes, placenta previa, breech position

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• Association of Midwives - Management of prelabour rupture of membranes at term

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• Cochrane - Prelabour rupture of membranes: induce or wait?

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• Merck Manual Consumer Version - Prelabor Rupture of the Membranes (PROM)