The amniotic sac surrounds the growing fetus and provides a protective barrier against the outside world. When the sac breaks, this is commonly referred to as when a woman’s water breaks before she goes into labour. If this occurs prior to the onset of delivery and after 37 weeks gestational age, it is termed premature rupture of membrane (PROM) and occurs in approximately 10% of all pregnancies. If it occurs before 37 weeks it is called pre-term, premature rupture of membrane (PPROM). Risk factors of PPROM include: smoking, GSB+, low body weight, nutritional deficiencies, and amniocentesis. Most women, approximately 75%, will go into labour within 24 hours of the membrane rupture. If too much time occurs between rupture and delivery, there is risk of infection of the fetus and the mother.

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Consult your healthcare provider if you have any concerns about your pregnancy symptoms.