What Are the Potential Outcomes of a Preterm Rupture of Membranes for the Baby?

Reviewed by Suo Lee, MD

Internal Medicine

When the amniotic sac breaks too soon, the baby can be born early and face risks such as infections, breathing problems, and other complications related to being premature.

Explanation

When amniotic fluid breaks too early, it is called preterm premature rupture of membranes (PPROM). This can lead to the baby being born before it is fully ready. Because the baby is born early, its lungs may not be mature enough to work properly. This can cause breathing problems that require care in a special unit (NICU). Also, an early birth increases the chance of infections, which can make the baby very sick. Infections may require urgent treatment. Babies born after PPROM can also face difficulties with feeding, keeping warm, and fighting off germs because their bodies are still developing. Some babies may have longer hospital stays and may need extra help as they grow up to reach normal development milestones. It is important to have careful monitoring and medical support to give these little ones the best chance for a healthy start in life. If you have concerns or notice signs of early water breaking, contacting your healthcare provider right away is very important.

(References)

Dayal S, Jenkins SM, Hong PL. Preterm and Term Prelabor Rupture of Membranes (PPROM and PROM) [Updated 2024 Oct 31]. In: StatPearls [Internet].
Chandra I, Sun L. Third trimester preterm and term premature rupture of membranes: Is there any difference in maternal characteristics and pregnancy outcomes? J Chin Med Assoc. 2017 Oct;80(10):657-661. doi: 10.1016/j.jcma.2016.12.006. Epub 2017 Apr 18. PMID: 28431858.
Boettcher LB, Clark EAS. Neonatal and Childhood Outcomes Following Preterm Premature Rupture of Membranes. Obstet Gynecol Clin North Am. 2020 Dec;47(4):671-680. doi: 10.1016/j.ogc.2020.09.001. Epub 2020 Oct 7. PMID: 33121652.

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