Episode 101: Prelabor Rupture of Membranes

Prelabor rupture of membranes or PROM is the spontaneous rupture of the amniotic sac without contractions for an hour or more after the 37th week of pregnancy.  Premature prelabor rupture of membranes or PPROM, is the spontaneous rupture of membranes without contraction for an hour or more before the 37th week of pregnancy.

PROM is experienced by approximately 8% of pregnant individuals. Less than 1% of pregnant individuals will experience PPROM

Doulas often blame PROM on a baby in a “bad” position. Leading each other to believe that labor will not begin if the baby’s position is not “corrected.” However, data demonstrate that 95% of individuals who experience PROM will go into labor on their own within 72 hours.

What doulas do not discuss is the hormonal triggers for PROM. The fetal membranes and the pregnant person’s body release prostaglandins at term.  These prostaglandins break down the cells of the amniotic sac, leading to the rupture of membranes. They also break down the cellular matrix of the cervix, which leads to effacement and dilation.

Join us as we take a deep dive into the statistics and science surrounding the prelabor rupture of the membranes.