Premature Breaking of Water

Premature Leakage of Water: Rupture of Membrane and Its Consequences

Premature breaking of water, also known as premature rupture of membranes, is a medical condition in which amniotic fluid leaks out of the uterus before labor contractions begin. This event can occur at different stages of pregnancy and can have serious consequences for both mother and baby.

Rupture of membranes usually occurs during labor, when progressive contractions cause the membranes to stretch and rupture. However, in rare cases, rupture of the membranes may occur before labor begins. This can be caused by a variety of factors, including trauma, infections preceding premature rupture of the membranes, or weakness of the membranes due to lack of collagen.

When the water breaks prematurely, amniotic fluid, which serves as a protective barrier for the fetus, spills into the uterine cavity or vagina. This can lead to several serious consequences. Firstly, rupture of the membranes can lead to infection, since the natural defenses against microorganisms are disrupted. This can lead to inflammation in the uterus and an increased risk of infections in mother and child.

In addition, premature water breaking can lead to preterm labor or preterm labor. This is due to the fact that the loss of amniotic fluid can disrupt the balance of fluids in the internal environment surrounding the fetus, which can lead to the activation of labor prematurely. Premature birth can be associated with a number of complications for the baby, such as low birth weight, breathing problems and organ development problems.

To diagnose premature water breaking, your healthcare provider may rely on symptoms, such as unexpected fluid coming from the vagina or a change in the color of the discharge. Additional diagnostic methods may include ultrasound to check the level of amniotic fluid.

If your water breaks prematurely, it is important to seek medical attention immediately. Treatment may include monitoring the mother and baby, antibiotic therapy to prevent infection, and pregnancy support if possible. In some cases, preterm delivery or induction of labor may be necessary to protect the health of the mother and baby.

In general, premature breaking of water, caused by the rupture of membranes before labor begins, is a serious medical event. It can lead to a number of complications and requires immediate medical attention. If you suspect your water may be breaking prematurely, it is important to seek medical advice immediately to ensure appropriate treatment and safety for both you and your baby.

Premature rupture of amniotic fluid is the cause of postpartum infection and hypoxia of the newborn

**Premature rupture of water** is a discharge of amniotic fluid caused by pathological rupture of the membranes or a course uncharacteristic of pregnancy before the onset of labor. The pathological course of labor and premature rupture of water are the direct cause of the development of perinatal (intrauterine) hypoxia and infectious complications that contribute to impaired functional status and fetal mortality. _Physiological and pathological discharge of amnial fluid are distinguished._ 1. **Physiological discharge -** plasma volume, about 50 ml 48 hours before normal birth. This is considered normal if the rupture occurs immediately before the onset of contractions. The effusion may be more significant (up to 1.5 liters), but within the first 2-3 hours after birth. 2. **Pathological discharge** - even before the onset of contractions or from the very beginning - caused by broken membranes, persistent stretching of the umbilical cord, structural changes in the placenta. When excessively stretched and inflamed, the umbilical cord absorbs intrauterine watery gases, which leads to its weakening and can cause placental abruption, and then premature rupture of the membranes.