What Is the Prevalence of Spontaneous Rupture of Membranes During Pregnancy?

Reviewed by Suo Lee, MD

Internal Medicine

During pregnancy, about one out of every ten women at term experiences spontaneous rupture of membranes, and around three out of every one hundred pregnancies have a preterm rupture.

Explanation

When we talk about spontaneous rupture of membranes, we mean the breaking of the amniotic sac by itself without any medical help. At term, which is after 37 weeks, roughly 8-10% of pregnancies result in this before labor actually starts. This is called prelabor rupture of membranes (PROM). On the other hand, when the water breaks before 37 weeks, it is known as preterm premature rupture of membranes (PPROM) and occurs in about 3% of all pregnancies. The exact numbers might change based on the population and other health factors, such as infections or even environmental influences. Studies in different areas, including parts of Africa and other settings, have noted that rates can vary. It is important to remember that each pregnancy is unique. If you have concerns about leaking fluid or any other signs during pregnancy, it is a good idea to talk with your healthcare provider to get the right check up and guidance for you and your baby.

(References)

Yasmina A, Barakat A. Rupture prématurée des membranes à terme: facteurs pronostiques et conséquences néonatales [Prelabour rupture of membranes (PROM) at term: prognostic factors and neonatal consequences]. Pan Afr Med J. 2017 Feb 5;26:68. French. doi: 10.11604/pamj.2017.26.68.11568. PMID: 28451045; PMCID: PMC5398863.
Addisu D, Melkie A, Biru S. Prevalence of Preterm Premature Rupture of Membrane and Its Associated Factors among Pregnant Women Admitted in Debre Tabor General Hospital, North West Ethiopia: Institutional-Based Cross-Sectional Study. Obstet Gynecol Int. 2020 May 14;2020:4034680. doi: 10.1155/2020/4034680. PMID: 32508927; PMCID: PMC7244979.
Pintucci A, Meregalli V, Colombo P, Fiorilli A. Premature rupture of membranes at term in low risk women: how long should we wait in the "latent phase"? J Perinat Med. 2014 Mar;42(2):189-96. doi: 10.1515/jpm-2013-0017. PMID: 24259235.

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