What it means
Used for events and signs that come before true labor. Prelabor rupture of membranes (PROM) is the bag of waters breaking before contractions start; it was once called premature rupture of membranes. Signs in the days or weeks before labor include lightening (the baby dropping lower), Braxton Hicks contractions, loss of the mucus plug and a burst of energy.
For the nurse
Teach clients to call or come in when the membranes rupture, noting the time and the color, amount and smell of the fluid.
At a glance
| Also written | pre-labor, prelabour |
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Related terms
uterine contraction
A tightening and then relaxing of the muscle of the uterus (womb), as happens during labor.
rupture of membrane
The breaking of the amniotic sac, the bag of fluid around the baby, before or during labor.
PROM
An abbreviation with two common meanings: prelabor (premature) rupture of membranes, or passive range of motion.