Premature rupture of membranes needs pregnant women to be wary of. The reason is, this condition can lead to serious complications that endanger the lives of pregnant women and their fetuses. Therefore, it is important to know the cause of premature rupture of membranes so that pregnant women can anticipate the dangers of this pregnancy.
During pregnancy, the fetus is protected and surrounded by a membrane that contains amniotic fluid. This fluid is produced about 12 days after fertilization or after the amniotic sac is formed.
Some time before the fetus is born, the amniotic sac will rupture and amniotic fluid will come out through the vagina. Within approximately 24 hours after the membranes rupture, usually the baby will be born.
If the membranes rupture before 37 weeks of gestation, this condition can be said to be premature rupture of the membranes.
Causes of premature rupture of membranes
Premature rupture of membranes usually causes premature labor, which is a condition when the baby is forced to be born prematurely. This condition is generally more at risk for the following conditions:
- Infections in the uterus, amniotic sac, cervix, or vagina
- Twin pregnancy or too much amniotic fluid volume
- Smoking habits or using drugs during pregnancy
- History of premature rupture of membranes in previous pregnancies
- Vaginal bleeding during pregnancy
- Low body mass index of pregnant women
- High blood pressure or uncontrolled blood sugar levels
- The distance between births is too close or too far
- Cervical surgery and biopsy
Complications of premature rupture of membranes
Premature rupture of membranes is a serious condition because it can lead to several complications, such as:
1. Uterus infection
This condition is characterized by symptoms such as fever, unusual vaginal discharge, vaginal odor, fast pulse, pain in the lower abdomen, and a faster than normal fetal heartbeat.
If left untreated, infection in the uterus can lead to sepsis in the baby which is dangerous.
2. Retention of the placenta
Premature labor due to premature rupture of the membranes increases the risk of retained placenta, which is a condition when part or all of the placenta is left in the uterus.
This condition can cause postpartum hemorrhage which is characterized by heavy bleeding from the vagina within 24 hours to 6 weeks after delivery.
3. Placental abruption
Placental abruption, which is the separation of part or all of the placenta from the uterine wall before the delivery process occurs. This condition can trigger premature labor or even death of the fetus.
4. Brain injury to the fetus
When the amniotic fluid is lost, the umbilical cord can get caught between the fetus and the uterine wall. As a result, the fetus can suffer brain injury or even death.
5. Death
If the membranes rupture before 23 weeks of gestation, the fetal lungs may not develop properly and cause the fetus to not survive.
Even if the fetus survives, it is highly likely that it will experience physical and mental disabilities when it is born. Babies are also at risk for several problems, such as chronic lung disease, hydrocephalus, cerebral palsy, and developmental disorders.
If pregnant women experience premature rupture of the amniotic fluid, immediately go to the hospital to get treatment from a doctor. Amniotic fluid can be recognized by its characteristics that are clear or white in color, accompanied by blood or mucus, and odorless.