What it means
Commonly called the water breaking. It may happen on its own or be done by the provider with a small hook (amniotomy). When it happens at term before labor starts it is called prelabor (premature) rupture of membranes; before 37 weeks it is PPROMPEE-promPreterm premature rupture of membranes: the amniotic sac breaks before 37 weeks of pregnancy and before labor starts.Full entry . The longer the membranes are open, the higher the risk of infection, and a gush of fluid can carry the umbilical cord down ahead of the baby.
For the nurse
Check the fetal heart rate right after the membranes rupture. Note the time, and the color, amount and smell of the fluid: clear is expected, and green-tinged (meconium), bloody or foul-smelling fluid is reported. Check the client's temperature regularly.
At a glance
| Also written | rupture of membranes |
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Related terms
amniotic fluid
The fluid inside the amniotic sac that surrounds and protects the baby during pregnancy.
PPROM
Preterm premature rupture of membranes: the amniotic sac breaks before 37 weeks of pregnancy and before labor starts.
umbilical cord prolapse
A condition in which the umbilical cord slips through the cervix ahead of or beside the fetus's presenting part.
premature rupture of membranes
Breaking of the amniotic sac (the "water breaking") before labor has started.