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Intermediate Technical IVT

PPROM

Also written as: PPROM — Preterm Premature Rupture of Membranes

Preterm premature rupture of membranes; rupture of amniotic membranes before 37 weeks gestation.

Full Definition

Preterm premature rupture of membranes (PPROM) occurs when the amniotic membranes rupture before 37 completed weeks of gestation and before the onset of labor. This condition affects approximately 3% of pregnancies and is responsible for about one-third of preterm deliveries. PPROM can lead to serious complications including preterm delivery, infection (chorioamnionitis), placental abruption, and cord prolapse. Management typically involves hospitalization, antibiotic administration, corticosteroids for fetal lung maturity, and careful monitoring for signs of infection or labor onset.

Usage

Usage note: Distinct from PROM which occurs at term; requires gestational age specification.

In Context

  • "PPROM was confirmed at 32 weeks gestation with positive pooling and ferning tests." — labor and delivery admission
  • "Management of PPROM included antibiotics and betamethasone administration." — high-risk pregnancy care plan

Also known as

preterm PROM

Contrasted with

term PROM

Don't confuse with

PROM preterm labor

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