Seminars in perinatology
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Premature rupture of the membranes (PROM), defined as rupture of the membranes before the onset of labor, is a common obstetric event occurring in 10% of pregnancies. Most of the time this occurs at or beyond 37 weeks' gestation with only 10% of PROM occurring at less than 37 weeks' gestation. The natural course of PROM is labor, and at term this is associated with a low rate of complications for the mother and the fetus. ⋯ In addition, controversy exists over the gestational age at which expectant management should be abandoned and active interventions to effect delivery pursued. This article discusses the natural history of PROM, the outcome of expectant management in PROM, and maternal and fetal outcomes in these patients. The emphasis of this discussion is on the preterm fetus.