 |
 |
|
|
|
|
DESCRIPTION
Premature rupture of membranes (PROM) is a spontaneous break or tear in the amniotic fluid sac before the onset of labor. It may happen at any time during a pregnancy and occurs in approximately 10 to 15% of all pregnancies.
FREQUENT SIGNS & SYMPTOMS
A leakage or a gush of blood-tinged amniotic fluid from the vagina.
Fever or foul-smelling vaginal discharge associated with uterine tenderness (often indicates an infection).
CAUSES
The exact cause is unknown. There is often a combination of PROM, preterm labor and infection involved.
RISK INCREASES WITH
Lack of proper prenatal care.
Weak cervix ( incompetent cervix).
Defect in the strength of the membrane itself.
Vaginal infection that spreads to the uterus.
Excessive amniotic fluid or multiple pregnancies resulting in an increased intrauterine pressure.
Poor nutrition and poor hygiene.
Injury to the uterus.
PREVENTIVE MEASURES
There are no specific preventive measures other than avoiding risk factors where possible.
EXPECTED OUTCOME
In a term pregnancy, labor and delivery usually occur within 24 hours following the rupture. In some preterm pregnancies, the period after the rupture until delivery may extend into week, or even months.
Outcome for a preterm rupture varies depending on the length of the pregnancy. If prior to 24 weeks' gestation, the outlook is poor.
On rare occasions, the leakage will cease, and the membranes are said to "seal over". The amniotic fluid re-accumulates.
POSSIBLE COMPLICATIONS
Extensive intra-amniotic infection, which will generally result in intensive uterine tenderness, fever, and fast heart rates for both mother and fetus. If this occurs, intravenous antibiotics and induction of labor are necessary regardless of gestational age. In some cases, intra-amniotic infection can lead to serious consequences for both mother and child.
TREATMENT
GENERAL MEASURES
Hospitalization may be indicated for further diagnostic studies and to make determination about treatment and delivery.
With a pregnancy longer than 36 weeks or where fetal lung maturity has been established, treatment leans toward delivery. Eighty percent of women go into spontaneous labor within 12 to 24 hours. For some women, labor may be induced immediately, particularly if there are any signs of infection. This may require a cesarean birth.
For a pregnancy of longer than 24 to 26 weeks duration, hospitalization may be indicated until delivery is recommended for some women. Others may be allowed to return home after 72 hours in the hospital to await labor. In either instance, careful monitoring of vital signs and laboratory blood studies will continue to check for infections and fetal distress. Labor will need to be induced if problems develop. Avoid any vaginal douches, sexual intercourse and putting anything into the vagina. If a midwife needs to do a vaginal exam, sterile techniques and supplies should be used. Avoid baths or hot tubs. Showers are acceptable.
For a pregnancy of less than 24 to 26 weeks, the fetal risks increase. These include compression deformities due to the collapse of amniotic membranes around the fetus and pulmonary problems (hypoplasia). In the case of PROM occurring before 24 weeks, the fetal survival rates are less than 20% and among those fetuses that survive, there is a high frequency of developmental defects. Termination of a pregnancy may need to be discussed with the parents.
MEDICATION
Oxytocin (Pitocin) or other oxytocic herbal remedies or labor inducing methods may be used to induce labor.
Antibiotics, if an intrauterine infection is present, and sometimes as an infection prevention therapy while awaiting spontaneous labor.
Corticosteroid therapy may be considered to accelerate fetal lung maturity.
ACTIVITY
Bed rest while awaiting labor and delivery is usually recommended. You may be allowed some walking around with your midwife's approval. Discontinue work or other physical activities. Avoid any sexual activity.
MoonDragon's Pregnancy Information: Bedrest Checklist
DIET
No special diet unless labor and delivery are immediate. Maintain a healthy pregnancy diet that may include dietary supplements.
NOTIFY YOUR MIDWIFE OR HEALTH CARE PROVIDER IF...
You or a family member has a leakage or gush of amniotic fluid (water) from the vagina. Call your midwife immediately. This may be an emergency!
If you are being treated as an outpatient for PROM and any new sign or symptoms develop or there is further leakage of the fluid.
If you have abdominal pain, chills and fever, headache, muscle aches or a bad-smelling vaginal discharge or any other signs of infection.
New, unexplained symptoms develop. Drugs used in treatment may produce side effects.
Mountain Rose Bulk Herbs
Mountain Rose Aromatherapy Oils
Mountain Rose Herbs, Aromatherapy Oils A-B
Mountain Rose Herbs, Aromatherapy Oils C-E
Mountain Rose Herbs, Aromatherapy Oils F-L
Mountain Rose Herbs, Aromatherapy Oils M-P
Mountain Rose Herbs, Aromatherapy Oils Q-Z
Mountain Rose Herbs, Aromatherapy Oils: Oil Blends & Resins
Mountain Rose Herbs, Aromatherapy Oils: Diffusers, Nebulizers, & Burners
Mountain Rose Herbs, Aromatherapy Oils: Oil Kits
Click Here To Visit Herbal Remedies Product Page
