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Published on: 4/28/2025

What Are the Underlying Causes of Premature Rupture of Membranes?

Premature rupture of membranes can occur due to infections, inflammation, or weakness in the membranes. Sometimes other health issues in the mother or baby add to the risk.

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Explanation

When the water breaks early, it may be due to a number of factors. First, infections in the mother’s body, especially in the uterus, can cause inflammation. This inflammation can weaken the membranes that hold the baby’s amniotic fluid, making them more likely to break too soon. Second, some women have membranes that are naturally weaker or may have been affected by previous injuries or surgeries, which can also lead to premature rupture. Other causes may include health problems like high blood pressure or issues with the baby’s development that put extra strain on the membranes. Even if no clear infection is found, changes in collagen or other components that keep the membranes strong might be involved. Because many things can lead to early rupture, doctors focus on keeping a close watch on the health of both the mother and the baby with regular check-ups, so they can detect and manage these factors early on.

(References)

  • Polzin WJ, Brady K. The etiology of premature rupture of the membranes. Clin Obstet Gynecol. 1998 Dec;41(4):810-6. doi: 10.1097/00003081-199812000-00004. PMID: 9917935.

  • Lin D, Hu B, Xiu Y, Ji R, Zeng H, Chen H, Wu Y. Risk factors for premature rupture of membranes in pregnant women: a systematic review and meta-analysis. BMJ Open. 2024 Mar 29;14(3):e077727. doi: 10.1136/bmjopen-2023-077727. PMID: 38553068; PMCID: PMC10982755.

  • Dayal S, Jenkins SM, Hong PL. Preterm and Term Prelabor Rupture of Membranes (PPROM and PROM) [Updated 2024 Oct 31]. In: StatPearls [Internet].

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