How to prevent premature rupture of membranes?

Written by Wang Jing Hua
Obstetrics and Gynecology
Updated on February 14, 2025
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The prevention of premature rupture of membranes primarily involves preventing infection. This is because the main cause of premature rupture of membranes is likely due to infection, though it can also be due to pelvic issues and irregular uterine contractions that stimulate the rupture. Therefore, those with a history of premature rupture of membranes should undergo relevant examinations early in pregnancy and receive prenatal care routinely, including tests for vaginal secretions. Even if one feels no discomfort, it is advisable to conduct an examination for vaginal pathogens and, if necessary, begin medication early. (Medication should be used under the guidance of a professional doctor.)

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Written by Yue Hua
Obstetrics and Gynecology
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Can premature rupture of membranes recover?

Premature rupture of membranes cannot be reversed. This means that the patient's membranes rupture before labor begins, and the ruptured membranes cannot be restored to their original, unruptured state. When the membranes rupture, most patients will feel fluid leaking from the vagina, and the patient does not experience abdominal pain or any sensation of being about to give birth; this is referred to as premature rupture of membranes. Upon discovering this condition, the first step is to have the patient rest in bed, as this situation can easily lead to the exposure of the fetal umbilical cord, which can endanger the child's life.

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Written by Du Rui Xia
Obstetrics
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Can you still have a natural birth if the membranes rupture prematurely?

Whether a natural delivery is possible after premature rupture of membranes depends on the condition of the pregnant woman and the fetus. If the woman's pelvis is normal and there are no signs of intrauterine hypoxia in the baby, then a natural delivery can be conducted. If, during natural delivery, the baby shows signs of hypoxia or the woman's pelvic conditions are not favorable, a cesarean section should be performed promptly after the premature rupture of membranes. If delivery cannot be achieved naturally within 24 hours after the premature rupture of membranes, it is crucial to prevent infection.

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Written by Zhao Li Li
Obstetrics
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Can premature rupture of membranes lead to a vaginal delivery?

If symptoms of premature rupture of membranes occur, further examination is still necessary to determine the specific mode of delivery. If there is only an early rupture of the membranes without systemic infectious symptoms, a comprehensive assessment of the development size of the fetus inside the uterine cavity, the specific amount of amniotic fluid, and the condition of the birth canal should be conducted. If there are no abnormalities, it is possible to attempt vaginal delivery. During the trial of labor, it is also necessary to closely monitor the changes in the amniotic fluid and the condition of the fetal heart rate. If any abnormalities occur, there is also the possibility of switching to an emergency cesarean section at any time.

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Written by Zhao Li Li
Obstetrics
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What will happen to fetal movement if the membranes rupture prematurely?

Generally, if premature rupture of membranes occurs, it is necessary to clearly determine the specific development of the embryo and the specific gestational age. If the fetus is preterm with premature rupture of membranes, it is necessary to promptly provide anti-infection treatment and promote fetal lung maturity among other symptomatic treatments. If the fetus is already at term, it is important to closely monitor the specific condition of cervical dilation and abdominal pain to decide on the mode of delivery. Normally, premature rupture of membranes does not affect fetal movement at all. A fetal heart rate monitoring test can be conducted to clarify the specific situation of the embryo's development within the uterine cavity and whether there is any fetal hypoxia, to comprehensively analyze the situation.

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Written by Yue Hua
Obstetrics and Gynecology
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What are the risks of premature rupture of membranes?

After premature rupture of membranes, the amniotic cavity is directly connected to the woman's vagina at this time, which primarily poses the risk of infection. If the fetus becomes infected, it is easy to lead to sepsis after birth, resulting in an increased mortality rate for the fetus. Additionally, it can cause bleeding in the fetus. Moreover, for the mother, there is a likely risk of placental abruption, which is due to the reduced abdominal tension after membrane rupture, making placental abruption more likely to occur. Furthermore, the mother is also prone to infections, which can easily lead to chorioamnionitis under these circumstances.