What Are the Known Risk Factors for Developing Premature Rupture of Membranes?

Reviewed by Suo Lee, MD

Internal Medicine

Certain factors like infections, a history of early water breaking, and other health or lifestyle issues can increase the risk of premature rupture of membranes.

Explanation

There are a few things that can make the water break too early during pregnancy. One important factor is infection. When there is an infection in the uterus or vagina, it can cause inflammation and weaken the membranes that hold the baby’s water. A history of premature rupture in a previous pregnancy also increases the chance of it happening again. Additionally, lifestyle factors such as smoking or exposure to harmful substances can contribute to the risk by affecting the strength of the membranes. Some medical conditions or problems with the pregnancy, like having too much amniotic fluid (polyhydramnios), may also lead to early rupture. In some cases, factors like physical trauma or problems that create extra stress on the uterus can play a role. It is vital for pregnant women to have regular check-ups so that any risk factors can be identified and managed early. This helps doctors work together with you to take care of and protect the baby’s and your health.

(References)

Bouvier D, Forest JC, Blanchon L, Bujold E, Pereira B, Bernard N, Gallot D, Sapin V, Giguère Y. Risk Factors and Outcomes of Preterm Premature Rupture of Membranes in a Cohort of 6968 Pregnant Women Prospectively Recruited. J Clin Med. 2019 Nov 15;8(11):1987. doi: 10.3390/jcm8111987. PMID: 31731659; PMCID: PMC6912547.
Byonanuwe S, Nzabandora E, Nyongozi B, Pius T, Ayebare DS, Atuheire C, Mugizi W, Nduwimana M, Okello M, Fajardo Y, Ssebuufu R. Predictors of Premature Rupture of Membranes among Pregnant Women in Rural Uganda: A Cross-Sectional Study at a Tertiary Teaching Hospital. Int J Reprod Med. 2020 Mar 2;2020:1862786. doi: 10.1155/2020/1862786. PMID: 32190642; PMCID: PMC7072099.
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.

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