How to prevent premature rupture of membranes?

Written by Wang Jing Hua
Obstetrics and Gynecology
Updated on February 14, 2025
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The prevention of premature rupture of membranes primarily involves preventing infection. This is because the main cause of premature rupture of membranes is likely due to infection, though it can also be due to pelvic issues and irregular uterine contractions that stimulate the rupture. Therefore, those with a history of premature rupture of membranes should undergo relevant examinations early in pregnancy and receive prenatal care routinely, including tests for vaginal secretions. Even if one feels no discomfort, it is advisable to conduct an examination for vaginal pathogens and, if necessary, begin medication early. (Medication should be used under the guidance of a professional doctor.)

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Written by Zhao Li Li
Obstetrics
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Premature rupture of membranes symptoms

Under normal circumstances, if there is no regular contraction and the amniotic fluid breaks after full-term, it is known as premature rupture of membranes. Regardless of the period, if premature rupture of membranes occurs, active symptomatic treatment is necessary. Normally, premature rupture of membranes may involve sudden vaginal discharge caused by various reasons. The amount of discharge can vary, usually being continuous, with the duration also varying. It starts with a large amount, then gradually decreases, with a few cases being intermittent. The vaginal discharge is usually related to changes in the pregnant woman's posture or activity. It can be seen that fluid leaks from the vaginal opening, or flows out from inside the vagina during upper fetal head push, pressing on the fundus, or when the posture of the pregnant woman changes. This condition can then be confirmed as premature rupture of membranes.

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Written by Liu Wen Li
Obstetrics
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Can premature rupture of membranes be repaired?

The amniotic sac, once ruptured, cannot be repaired. It is a membrane that envelops the fetus and the amniotic fluid, providing protection against microbial invasion from the outside and preventing infection of the fetus. Once ruptured, not only can the amniotic fluid leak, leading to a decrease in its volume, but it can also lead to infections and the possibility of umbilical cord prolapse. Typically, rupture of the amniotic sac naturally leads to contractions. Therefore, if it is not yet full-term, it is important to prevent the rupture of the amniotic sac.

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Written by Wang Jing Hua
Obstetrics and Gynecology
49sec home-news-image

How to prevent premature rupture of membranes?

The prevention of premature rupture of membranes primarily involves preventing infection. This is because the main cause of premature rupture of membranes is likely due to infection, though it can also be due to pelvic issues and irregular uterine contractions that stimulate the rupture. Therefore, those with a history of premature rupture of membranes should undergo relevant examinations early in pregnancy and receive prenatal care routinely, including tests for vaginal secretions. Even if one feels no discomfort, it is advisable to conduct an examination for vaginal pathogens and, if necessary, begin medication early. (Medication should be used under the guidance of a professional doctor.)

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Written by Yue Hua
Obstetrics and Gynecology
52sec home-news-image

Premature rupture of membranes requires what examinations?

To diagnose premature rupture of membranes, first, a pH test of the vaginal fluid must be conducted. The normal pH value of vaginal fluid in women ranges from 4.5 to 5.5, whereas the pH of amniotic fluid ranges from 7.0 to 7.5. If the membranes have ruptured prematurely, the pH value would be greater than 6.5. Additionally, a smear test of the vaginal fluid can be done by placing vaginal secretions under a glass slide and examining them under a microscope. If fern-like crystals are observed, this indicates the presence of amniotic fluid. Furthermore, an ultrasound examination can be conducted. If the ultrasound shows a rapid decrease in the amount of amniotic fluid, this can assist in the diagnosis.

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Written by Zhang Lu
Obstetrics
1min 13sec home-news-image

What to do if the amniotic sac breaks early?

Premature rupture of membranes refers to the rupture of the membranes before labor begins. The management of premature rupture of membranes depends on the timing of the rupture and the condition of the fetus in the uterine cavity. First, for premature rupture of membranes after 34 weeks of pregnancy, since the gestational age is relatively advanced, the fetus is larger and more mature. In this case, the risks associated with continuing the pregnancy are higher. For premature rupture of membranes after 34 weeks, it is generally advised to allow natural progression or to deliver as soon as possible, and it is not recommended to attempt to prolong the pregnancy. Second, for premature rupture of membranes before 28 weeks of pregnancy, since the fetus is very small and the success rate of prolonging the pregnancy is relatively low under these circumstances, it is generally advised to terminate the pregnancy. Third, for premature rupture of membranes between 28 and 34 weeks, an attempt can be made to prolong the pregnancy as much as possible. However, if fetal hypoxia or infection occurs, the pregnancy should be terminated promptly.