Is the risk of infection high with premature rupture of membranes?

Written by Zhao Li Li
Obstetrics
Updated on September 04, 2024
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In general, after premature rupture of membranes, there is still a significant risk of intrauterine infection. Normally, after premature rupture of membranes, it is necessary to clearly determine whether the development size of the embryo inside the uterine cavity is mature, as well as the specific amount of premature rupture of membranes and vaginal discharge. If the rupture of membranes is severe and there is a large amount of amniotic fluid flowing out of the vagina, it generally may lead to a reduction in amniotic fluid and significantly increase the risk of infection. After confirming premature rupture of membranes, it is necessary to actively use antibiotics for symptomatic treatment to prevent infections, promote fetal lung maturity inside the uterine cavity, and reduce the risk of delayed lung function development in the fetus after childbirth.

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Written by Zhao Li Li
Obstetrics
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Is the risk of infection high with premature rupture of membranes?

In general, after premature rupture of membranes, there is still a significant risk of intrauterine infection. Normally, after premature rupture of membranes, it is necessary to clearly determine whether the development size of the embryo inside the uterine cavity is mature, as well as the specific amount of premature rupture of membranes and vaginal discharge. If the rupture of membranes is severe and there is a large amount of amniotic fluid flowing out of the vagina, it generally may lead to a reduction in amniotic fluid and significantly increase the risk of infection. After confirming premature rupture of membranes, it is necessary to actively use antibiotics for symptomatic treatment to prevent infections, promote fetal lung maturity inside the uterine cavity, and reduce the risk of delayed lung function development in the fetus after childbirth.

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Written by Liu Wei Jie
Obstetrics
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Will the fetus still move if the membranes rupture prematurely?

Firstly, it is necessary to identify what the issue of premature rupture of membranes is. Premature rupture of membranes can occur during early pregnancy or the mid-to-late pregnancy stage and involves uncontrollable leakage of fluid from the vagina. If there is no umbilical cord prolapse after the rupture of membranes, the baby will definitely move. The most common issues following premature rupture of membranes are umbilical cord prolapse and infection, as well as a reduction in amniotic fluid. What should be done after premature rupture of membranes occurs? It is essential to remain in bed, raise the buttocks, and avoid getting out of bed. Getting out of bed increases the risk of umbilical cord prolapse, and following umbilical cord prolapse, fetal death in utero can occur, after which fetal movement will no longer be observed.

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Written by Du Rui Xia
Obstetrics
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How long can premature rupture of membranes last?

When premature rupture of membranes occurs, it can last up to 24 hours. If labor has not commenced 24 hours after rupture, pregnancy termination becomes necessary, and one can either induce labor to facilitate a vaginal delivery or opt for a cesarean section. For ruptures occurring between the 28th and 35th weeks of pregnancy, as the baby's lungs are not yet fully developed, it is crucial to administer medication promptly to help mature the fetal lungs and extend the gestational period as much as possible. Once the fetal lung development is adequate, pregnancy should be terminated in a timely manner. For cases of premature rupture of membranes occurring after 36 weeks of pregnancy, where fetal development is generally mature, pregnancy can be terminated more promptly.

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Written by Du Rui Xia
Obstetrics
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Can you still have a natural birth if the membranes rupture prematurely?

Whether a natural delivery is possible after premature rupture of membranes depends on the condition of the pregnant woman and the fetus. If the woman's pelvis is normal and there are no signs of intrauterine hypoxia in the baby, then a natural delivery can be conducted. If, during natural delivery, the baby shows signs of hypoxia or the woman's pelvic conditions are not favorable, a cesarean section should be performed promptly after the premature rupture of membranes. If delivery cannot be achieved naturally within 24 hours after the premature rupture of membranes, it is crucial to prevent infection.

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Written by Yue Hua
Obstetrics and Gynecology
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The hazards of premature rupture of membranes

Premature rupture of membranes primarily affects the mother by leading to infections. Once the membranes rupture, bacteria can easily enter the uterine cavity from the vagina, causing chorioamnionitis. Additionally, it may lead to placental abruption, as the rupture of the membranes causes a decrease in abdominal tension, thus making placental abruption more likely to occur. It also leads to an increased rate of cesarean sections, because the reduction in amniotic fluid can cause irregular uterine contractions and the umbilical cord to be easily compressed, which may endanger the fetus. The main impact on the fetus is an increased risk of preterm birth.